This Traditional Homestyle Chicken Casserole is the ultimate comfort food for any day of the week. Packed with tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a golden, cheesy top, it’s a dish that warms the soul and satisfies the appetite.
Butter: Adds richness and helps sauté the veggies to fragrant perfection.
Onion: Brings a sweet and savory base flavor.
Garlic: Enhances overall flavor with its aromatic depth.
Carrots, Celery, and Peas: Classic veggies that add texture and nutrition.
Cooked Chicken: The heart of the casserole; shredded for easy eating.
Cream of Chicken Soup: Provides creamy consistency and savory taste.
Chicken Broth and Milk: Thins out the soup for a smoother sauce.
Salt, Black Pepper, Thyme, and Parsley: Seasonings to boost the dish’s flavor.
Egg Noodles: Starch that adds body to the casserole.
Cheddar Cheese: Melts into a gooey, irresistible topping.
Breadcrumbs: Crunchy topping that seals the deal.
Pair this chicken casserole with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette to cut through the richness. A side of crusty bread can help scoop up all that creamy goodness. For a cozy family dinner, serve it with a light fruit salad for a refreshing contrast.
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This gives you time to get everything else ready while the oven comes up to temperature. Grab a large skillet and melt butter over medium heat. Once melted, toss in the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté them until they’re softened and your kitchen smells amazing.
Next, add the sliced carrots, celery, and peas to the skillet. Cook these together for about 5 minutes, letting the veggies slightly soften. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, mix together the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and milk. Stir in salt, pepper, thyme, and parsley for seasoning.
Combine the sautéed vegetables with the chicken mixture. Add the cooked egg noodles and stir everything until it’s well combined. Transfer this mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with a bit of melted butter, then sprinkle this over the cheese. Pop the dish in your preheated oven and bake for around 30 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and beautifully golden brown.
Take it out and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This gives the casserole a chance to set a little, making it easier to serve.