This cozy, comforting chicken casserole is packed with flavor! With tender egg noodles, shredded chicken, crispy bacon, sweet corn, and topped with crunchy French fried onions, it’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table. Perfect for a family meal, potluck, or any special occasion. Let’s get into the details!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups egg noodles: Cooked until al dente. You can use regular egg noodles or any pasta shape you prefer (rotini or penne work well, too).
- 2 cups cooked chicken: Shredded. I recommend using rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken for convenience and extra flavor, but you can also cook your own chicken breast or thighs.
- 2 cups corn: You can use frozen corn (thawed) or canned corn (drained). For a richer flavor, you can even use fresh corn cut off the cob when in season.
- 1 cup milk: Whole milk provides the creamiest results, but you can also use 2% milk for a slightly lighter version.
- 2 (10 oz) cans cream of chicken soup: This gives the casserole its creamy base and adds flavor. If you prefer, you can substitute with cream of mushroom soup.
- 1 onion: Finely diced. Yellow or white onions work best, but red onions can be used for a touch of sweetness.
- 1 tbsp garlic: Minced. Fresh garlic will give the casserole a richer flavor, but you can also use 1 teaspoon of garlic powder if you’re in a pinch.
- ½ cup shredded cheese: Cheddar cheese is a classic choice, but feel free to use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a cheese blend for a different taste.
- ½ cup cooked bacon: Chopped. You can use regular bacon or even turkey bacon for a lighter option. For extra crispiness, cook the bacon until it’s crunchy and crumble it before adding.
Topping:
- ¾ cup French fried onions: These crispy onions add a delightful crunch to the casserole. You can find them in the canned vegetable aisle, and they’re perfect for topping casseroles, salads, and more!
- Salt and pepper: To taste. These simple seasonings bring out all the flavors in the dish.
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking. This ensures your casserole comes out easily and doesn’t stick to the pan.
2. Prepare the Egg Noodles:
- Boil the egg noodles in salted water according to the package instructions until they are al dente (firm but tender). Drain the noodles in a colander and set them aside. Make sure they are not overcooked, as they’ll continue to cook in the casserole.
3. Prepare the Casserole Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked egg noodles, shredded chicken, corn, and cream of chicken soup.
- Add the milk, diced onion, and minced garlic to the mixture. Stir well to combine.
- Stir in the shredded cheese and chopped bacon. Mix everything together until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. I recommend adding 1 tsp salt and ½ tsp black pepper to start, then adjusting based on your taste preferences.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
- Pour the mixture into your greased 9×13-inch pan, spreading it out evenly to fill the pan. Use a spatula to smooth out the top and make sure it’s level.
5. Add the Topping:
- Sprinkle the French fried onions evenly over the top of the casserole. These will crisp up as they bake, creating a crunchy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy casserole underneath.
6. Bake:
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. During this time, the casserole will heat through and the onions will turn golden and crispy.
- Tip: Keep an eye on the onions toward the end of baking. If they start to brown too quickly, you can cover the casserole loosely with aluminum foil for the last 10 minutes.
7. Let It Rest:
- After removing the casserole from the oven, let it sit for 5 minutes to cool slightly and set. This will make it easier to cut and serve.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
- Slice the casserole into squares or rectangles and serve it while it’s still warm. It pairs wonderfully with a side salad or roasted vegetables. Enjoy the comforting, savory flavors!
Pro Tips for Success:
- Make Ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day in advance. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. When you’re ready to bake, just add the French fried onions on top and bake as directed.
- Cheese Varieties: Don’t hesitate to mix up the cheese! Try a combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack for a creamier texture, or add some parmesan for a touch of sharpness.
- Add Veggies: If you’d like to make this casserole a bit more nutritious, feel free to add vegetables like broccoli, peas, or green beans. Just make sure to cook or steam them beforehand and drain well to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.
- Leftovers: This casserole makes great leftovers! Store any uneaten casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results, or microwave in individual servings.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with garlic bread, dinner rolls, or a green salad to complete the meal.
- For a quick and easy side, try steamed broccoli or a simple caesar salad.
This Ultimate Chicken Casserole is the perfect dish for a family meal or any gathering. With its creamy, cheesy filling and crispy topping, it’s sure to please everyone around the table! 💖🍗