Creamy Chicken and Peas Casserole Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 bag of egg noodles, cooked
- 1 can of cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 can of peas, drained
- 1 can of chicken, drained
- A splash of milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cheddar cheese (for topping)
- Crushed Ritz crackers (for topping)
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare Egg Noodles:
- Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare Creamy Mixture:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, drained peas, canned chicken, and a splash of milk.
- Stir the mixture until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Noodles and Creamy Mixture:
- Add the cooked egg noodles to the creamy mixture. Gently fold and mix until the noodles are evenly coated.
- Assemble in Casserole Dish:
- Transfer the mixture into a baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Prepare Toppings:
- Sprinkle a layer of cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
- Crush Ritz crackers and sprinkle them over the cheese layer.
- Bake:
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted, and the top is golden brown.
- Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Serve warm and enjoy your creamy chicken and peas casserole!
Tips:
- Experiment with different cheese varieties for the topping, such as sharp cheddar, mozzarella, or a cheese blend.
- Add a touch of herbs or spices, like thyme or garlic powder, to enhance the flavor.
- Feel free to customize with additional vegetables or herbs based on your preferences.
This simple and comforting casserole is perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner. Enjoy your meal!
Most popular questions and their answers related to the Creamy Chicken and Peas Casserole Recipe
Q: Can I use fresh peas instead of canned peas? A: Yes, you can substitute fresh peas for canned peas. Simply blanch or cook them until they are tender and add them to the casserole.
Q: Can I use leftover cooked chicken instead of canned chicken? A: Absolutely! If you have leftover cooked chicken, shred or chop it and use it in place of canned chicken for added flavor.
Q: What can I use if I don’t have Ritz crackers for the topping? A: You can use breadcrumbs, crushed crackers of a different type, or even panko for the topping. It’s a flexible element that you can adjust based on what you have.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to eat.
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it. Add the toppings just before baking to maintain their crunchiness.
Q: Are there variations I can try with this recipe? A: Absolutely! Consider adding sautéed onions, mushrooms, or different herbs to customize the flavor to your liking.
Q: Can I freeze this casserole? A: While it’s possible to freeze, the texture of the noodles may change. If you choose to freeze, ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container, and thaw before reheating.
Q: What’s a good side dish to serve with this casserole? A: A simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or a side of crusty bread would complement this casserole nicely.