Description
Creamy Skillet Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
Ingredients:
3 cups egg noodles (uncooked)
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
2 tbsp butter
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Cook the Noodles:
Boil the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics:
In a large oven-safe skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
Add onion and garlic; sauté until soft and fragrant (about 3-4 minutes).
Mix the Sauce:
Stir in the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and chicken broth.
Season with salt and pepper. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Combine Ingredients:
Add the shredded chicken and cooked noodles to the skillet.
Mix well to coat everything in the creamy sauce.
Top with Cheese:
Sprinkle cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
Bake:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bake the skillet uncovered for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish & Serve:
Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
Creamy, cheesy, and packed with comfort! #ChickenNoodleCasserole #EasyComfortFood
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for a foolproof casserole. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the egg noodles to al dente, as they will soften further when baked. While they cook, shred your chicken (rotisserie chicken works perfectly). In a large, oven-safe skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and sauté the diced onion until translucent, then add the garlic for the final minute. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and broth until smooth. Season with salt and pepper. Fold in the drained noodles and shredded chicken, ensuring every piece is coated. Top evenly with the shredded cheddar cheese. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is fully melted and the edges are bubbly.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with simple sides to round out your dinner. For a fresh contrast, serve it with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. Steamed green beans, roasted broccoli, or glazed carrots also make excellent vegetable accompaniments. For a true comfort food feast, add a side of warm, buttery dinner rolls or garlic bread to soak up the extra creamy sauce.
How-to Summary
To summarize: cook noodles, sauté onion and garlic, mix soup, sour cream, and broth into a sauce, combine with chicken and noodles in a skillet, top with cheese, and bake at 375°F until bubbly. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes. Assemble the casserole completely (through the cheese topping) in the skillet, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup? You can use cream of mushroom or celery soup. For a homemade version, make a simple white sauce (a roux with butter, flour, and milk) and add extra chicken bouillon for flavor.
Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely. Medium pasta shells, fusilli, or penne hold sauce well. Adjust cooking time according to the pasta’s package directions.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or warm the entire skillet in the oven at 350°F until heated through, adding a splash of broth if it seems dry.
Is the skillet necessary, or can I use a baking dish? A baking dish works perfectly. Simply sauté the aromatics in a separate pan, then combine everything in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish before topping with cheese and baking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcooking the noodles initially, as they will turn mushy during baking. Ensure your skillet is truly oven-safe; plastic handles can melt. Do not skip sautéing the onion and garlic—this step builds foundational flavor. Finally, resist the urge to use pre-shredded cheese if possible, as it contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy. Freshly shredded cheese melts much more smoothly.
Conclusion
This Creamy Skillet Chicken Noodle Casserole is the epitome of easy, satisfying comfort food. With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, it delivers a delicious, creamy, and cheesy dinner that the whole family will love. Its versatility for make-ahead meals and easy customization makes it a reliable recipe to return to again and again. Enjoy the cozy, homemade goodness straight from your skillet to the table.