Description
This Homemade Chicken Noodle Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish featuring tender shredded chicken, wide egg noodles, and mixed vegetables blended in a creamy, flavorful sauce made with chicken broth, milk, and a touch of lemon juice. Topped with melted Colby Jack cheese and baked until bubbly, it’s perfect for a family dinner or potluck gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 12 ounces wide egg noodles, cooked al dente
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, green beans)
- 2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole later.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for about 4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Make Roux: Stir in the flour to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to form a roux that will thicken the sauce.
- Add Liquids: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Continue cooking for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Season Sauce: Stir in the lemon juice, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to add brightness and flavor to the sauce.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked shredded chicken, frozen mixed vegetables, and cooked egg noodles to the skillet. Mix thoroughly to evenly coat all components with the sauce.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Pour the combined casserole mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the shredded Colby Jack cheese evenly over the casserole’s surface.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden, and the casserole is heated through.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
- For the best flavor, cook the egg noodles just until al dente so they don’t become mushy when baked.
- You can substitute the mixed vegetables with fresh veggies if preferred, just ensure they are partially cooked or sautéed before mixing.
- If you want a lighter version, use low-fat milk and reduce the butter to 1 tablespoon.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Feel free to add a crunchy topping like breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter for added texture.
