This cheesy chicken casserole is the ultimate easy family favorite! Made with chicken, pasta, veggies
and a creamy cheese sauce, its a comforting one-dish meal.
What can I substitute for Ritz crackers?
You can use crushed saltine crackers, panko breadcrumbs, crushed cornflakes, or crushed potato chips
instead cf Ritz crackers for the topping.
Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs to make a gluten-free version.
Can I prepare this in advance?
You can assenble the entire casserole up to a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Add 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes! Prepare the casserole but do not bake it. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw
ovemight in the refrigerator before baking.
What kind of chicken works best?
Shredded rotisserie chicken or diced cooked chicken breast or thighs work great Avoid using raw
chicken.
How long Will leftovers last?
Leftover casserole will keep for 3-4 days covered in the refrigerator. Reheat individual portions in the
microwave.
What can I serve with this casserole?
It’s delicious on its own or served with rice, mashed potatoes, a fresh salad or roasted vegetables.
Can I make it spicier?
Yes, add hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce to give it some heat.
Prep time: 10 mins
• Cook time: 20 mins
Total time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 6
Ingredients
• 450g (1 lb) cooked, chopped chicken (rotisserie, baked or boiled)
340g (12 oz) egg noodles
• 115g cup) butter
• 1 mediurn onim, diced (about 1 cup)
• 25g cup) all-purpose flour
3 cloves garlic, minced
• 475ml (2 cups) chicken broth
• 475ml (2 cups) milk
. % teaspoon salt
% teaspoon black pepper
• 230g (2 cups) frozen peas
• 230g (2 cups) shredded cheddar cheese
• 60g (h cup) grated Parmesan cheese
45ml (3 tsp) olive oil
• 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed (about 1 cup)
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 200tC (400’F). Lighty grease a 23x33cm (9×13 in) baking dish.
2 Cook the egg noodles according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water. Set aside.
3. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 5-7 rwnutes until
4. Sprinkle the flour and garlic over the onions. Cook for 1-2 minutes stirring frequently.
5. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk_ Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer and
cook for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
6. Stir in the frozen peas, cheddar cheese and cooked chicken. Remove from heat and stir until cheese
7. Add the cooked egg noodbes to the prepared baking dish. Pour the chicken mixture over the noodles
and toss to coat evenly.
8. In a small bow, mix twether the crushed Ritz crackers, Parmesan cheese and olive oil_ Sprinkle
over the casserole.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the cracker topping is lightly brmvned.
10. Gamish v.qth parsley if desired. Serve warm
11. Enjoy this easy cheesy chicken casserole! The combination of chicken, veggies, pasta and creamy
cheese sauce is simple but delicious. Let me know if you try this recipe!
Tips for Making Cheesy Chicken Casserole
• For even cooking, make sure to chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces before adding to the
casserole.
• V”hen adding the cheese, turn off the heat so the residual heat nzlts it — overheating can make the
cheese stringy.
Allow the casserole to rest 5-10 minutes before serving so the favors can tiend.
• Gamish with extra shredded cheese and chopped parsley for a pop of color
Swap the egg noodles for macaroni or penne pasta if desired.
• For a healthier ‘.•sion, use reduced-fat milk and low-fat cheese.
• Add sauteed mushrooms v,’ith the onions for extra flavor.
• Stir in some cooked broccoli florets or diced carrots for more veggies.
For spicy casserole, add minced jalapenos or hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
Top with crushed potato chips or french fried onions instead of Ritz crackers.
• Bake the casserole uncovered for crispy top or cover with foil to keep it extra saucy
Instead of peas, you can use 230g (2 cups) frozen mixed vegetables.
Crush the Ritz crackers inside the sleeve then transfer to a bowl and crush any large chunks. Can also
use a meat mallet or rolling pin.
Nutrition
Calories: 410kcal I Carbohydrates: 40g I Protein: 24g I Fat: 17g I Saturated Fat 9g I Cholesterol: 76mg I
Sodium: 621mg I Potassium: 369mg I Fiber: 2g I Sugar: 4g I Vlamin A: 88510 | Vlamin C: 11nV I
Calcium: 307mg I Iron: 2mg