This Creamy Chicken and Noodle Casserole is a filling, flavorful meal that’s perfect for weeknights! Here’s a step-by-step guide for the recipe with added details:
Ingredients
- 3 Chicken Breasts: Use boneless, skinless for easy shredding.
- ½ Bag of Egg Noodles: Wide egg noodles work best for this type of casserole.
- Stove Top Stuffing (Savory Herbs flavor): Adds a crunchy and flavorful topping.
- 2 Cans of Mixed Vegetables (drained): Use any mix you like; you can do a combination of mixed vegetables and vegetable medley for variety.
- ½ Can of Value Size Heinz Chicken Gravy: This adds creaminess and flavor depth.
- 1 Family Can of Cream of Chicken Soup: Use the family-size can for extra creaminess.
- Seasonings: Salt, garlic seasoning, and butter.
- Water: For boiling chicken and noodles.
- Cheddar Cheese: Shredded; optional, but recommended for extra flavor.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Boil the Chicken Breasts:
- In a large pot, bring water to a gentle boil, adding a pat of butter, salt, and garlic seasoning for flavor.
- Boil the chicken breasts until fully cooked, about 15-20 minutes depending on thickness.
- Shred the Chicken:
- Remove chicken from the water and shred with two forks. Place the shredded chicken in a large baking dish or mixing bowl.
- Add about ½ cup of the water used to boil the chicken to the shredded chicken to keep it moist.
Step 2: Cook the Noodles
- Boil the Egg Noodles in the same water used for the chicken (add more water if needed).
- Cook noodles for about 8-10 minutes until just underdone (al dente), so they don’t get too soft after baking.
- Drain the noodles and set aside.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- Mix Everything Together:
- In the large baking dish or mixing bowl with the shredded chicken, add the drained noodles, drained mixed vegetables, ½ can of chicken gravy, and cream of chicken soup.
- Add salt and garlic seasoning to taste, and mix until well combined.
Step 4: Prepare the Stuffing
- Cook the Stuffing according to the package instructions on the Stove Top box. This usually involves adding water and butter and letting it sit to absorb.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
- Spread the Stuffing over the chicken and noodle mixture evenly.
- Top with Shredded Cheddar Cheese for extra flavor and a golden finish.
Step 6: Bake
- Bake the Casserole:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (if not already preheated).
- Bake the casserole, uncovered, for about 35 minutes or until the stuffing topping is crispy and the cheese has melted and is golden.
Step 7: Let Cool & Serve
- Allow the casserole to cool for about 5 minutes before serving to let everything set.
Additional Tips
- Cheese Variations: You can mix cheddar with mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a gooier texture.
- Seasoning Boost: Add a pinch of thyme or rosemary for more herbaceous flavor.
This hearty casserole will likely yield some leftovers, which reheat well for another comforting meal. Enjoy!