If you're looking for a comforting dish that's bursting with flavor and easy to whip up, this Lemon Herb Chicken Noodle Casserole is your new go-to. It's a harmonious blend of zesty lemon, savory herbs, and creamy cheeses that will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds.
Chicken breasts are the protein star here, bringing a lean and tender element to the dish. Egg noodles provide the perfect base, soaking up all the creamy goodness. Sour cream adds a tangy richness, while chicken broth keeps everything moist and flavorful. Mozzarella cheese melts into gooey perfection, and Parmesan cheese brings a nutty sharpness. A splash of lemon juice and a bit of lemon zest give this casserole its signature zing. Olive oil and butter help sauté the onions, bell peppers, and garlic, which add depth and sweetness. Fresh thyme and parsley round out the flavor profile with their aromatic, herbal notes.
This casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with olive oil and lemon juice. If you're in the mood for something heartier, serve it alongside some crusty bread to mop up all the creamy sauce.
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F. While it's warming up, get a pot of water boiling and cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Drain them and set them aside for later. Meanwhile, heat some olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic, and sauté them until the onions turn translucent and everything smells amazing.
Now, it's time for the chicken. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with a good pinch of salt, pepper, and lemon zest, then place them in the skillet alongside the veggies. Cook the chicken until it's golden brown—this usually takes about 5-7 minutes per side. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and dice it into bite-sized pieces.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, chicken broth, lemon juice, thyme, parsley, and butter. Mix it well until you have a smooth sauce. Add the cooked noodles, diced chicken, and the sautéed vegetables to the bowl. Stir it all together until everything is coated in that delicious sauce.
Grease a casserole dish and pour the noodle-chicken mixture into it. Spread it out evenly, then sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top. Pop it into your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Once it's out of the oven, garnish with a touch more thyme and parsley before serving.
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