Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole

Introduction

Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole is a comfort food classic, loved for its creamy texture, rich flavor, and satisfying crunch. This dish combines tender egg noodles, juicy shredded chicken, sweet corn, and a creamy cheese sauce, all topped with crispy fried onions. It’s a perfect dish for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping.

History of the Dish

Casseroles have been a staple in American households since the early 20th century. The concept of mixing pasta, protein, and a creamy sauce became popular during the 1950s when processed foods like canned soup and condensed milk became common kitchen staples. The idea of adding crispy fried onions originated in the 1960s as a way to add texture to otherwise soft dishes.

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

• 3 cups cooked egg noodles
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or boiled)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup canned or frozen corn
• ½ cup milk
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)

For the Topping:

• 1 cup crispy fried onions
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions, drain, and set aside. If using raw chicken, boil and shred it beforehand.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth.

Step 3: Mix the Casserole

Add the cooked noodles, shredded chicken, corn, and shredded cheddar cheese to the sauce mixture. Stir everything until well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it evenly.

Step 5: Add Topping

Sprinkle additional shredded cheese and crispy fried onions on top. For an extra crunch, add a light layer of panko breadcrumbs.

Step 6: Bake

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.

Step 7: Serve

Let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy with a side salad or garlic bread.

Benefits of Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole

1. Protein-Rich: The chicken provides a good amount of protein, helping with muscle growth and repair.
2. Comforting & Filling: The creamy texture and cheese make it a satisfying meal.
3. Easy to Make: Requires minimal ingredients and is a one-dish meal, reducing clean-up.
4. Great for Meal Prep: It stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days.
5. Kid-Friendly: Mild flavors make it a family favorite.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

(Approximate values based on a standard serving size)

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 3g
• Calcium: 150mg

Who Loves This Dish?

• Families: Perfect for busy weeknights.
• Kids: The cheesy, creamy texture makes it a favorite.
• Potluck Lovers: A crowd-pleaser at gatherings.
• Comfort Food Fans: Ideal for cold weather or when craving a hearty meal.

Conclusion

Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole is a timeless comfort food that brings warmth and nostalgia to the table. With its creamy base, tender chicken, and crispy onion topping, it’s a dish that satisfies cravings and nourishes the soul. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a gathering, this casserole is sure to be a hit!