Chicken Noodle Casserole – No Soup (Recipe)

Looking for an easy, homemade chicken noodle casserole recipe that doesn’t rely on canned cream soup? Look no further! This classic chicken noodle casserole is made from scratch with simple, wholesome ingredients, delivering a delicious and comforting dish that will satisfy everyone at the table.

In this recipe, wide egg noodles, tender chicken, and a medley of vegetables are enveloped in a rich and creamy sauce. The secret to achieving that creamy texture without using canned soup lies in creating a homemade roux with butter, flour, chicken broth, and milk. By combining these ingredients, you’ll be able to savor the flavors of a traditional chicken noodle casserole without any artificial additives.

Not only is this casserole easy to prepare, but it’s also highly customizable. Whether you prefer boiling and pulling chicken, using rotisserie chicken, or utilizing leftover chicken, this recipe can accommodate your preferences. You can even add your favorite herbs and spices to enhance the flavors and make it uniquely yours.

Once assembled, the casserole is generously topped with buttery Ritz cracker crumbs, adding a delightful crunch to every bite. Baked to golden perfection, this chicken noodle casserole is a tried-and-true comfort food that will warm your heart and nourish your soul.

Key Takeaways:

• Create a creamy sauce from scratch using a roux with butter, flour, chicken broth, and milk.
• Customize the casserole by choosing your preferred method of cooking the chicken and adding herbs and spices.
• Top the casserole with buttery Ritz cracker crumbs for a satisfying crunch.
• This homemade recipe eliminates the need for canned cream soup.
• Enjoy the comforting and flavorful goodness of chicken noodle casserole made without soup.

Ingredients for Chicken Noodle Casserole – No Soup

When making this delicious chicken noodle casserole from scratch, you will need the following ingredients:

• Wide egg noodles: These noodles form the base of the casserole, providing a hearty and satisfying texture.
• Butter: Butter adds richness and flavor to the casserole.
• Carrots, onion, celery, and garlic: These vegetables add a pop of color, flavor, and nutrients to the dish.
• All-purpose flour: Flour is used to create a roux, which helps thicken the creamy sauce.
• Milk: Milk adds creaminess to the sauce, making it velvety smooth.
• Chicken broth: Chicken broth provides a savory base for the sauce, enhancing the overall flavor.
• Thyme: Thyme adds a subtle herbaceous note to the casserole.
• Cooked chicken: Tender and juicy cooked chicken forms the protein element of the casserole.
• Cheddar cheese: Cheddar cheese melts into the sauce, contributing to the cheesy goodness of the casserole.
• Frozen peas: Peas add pops of vibrant green color and a touch of sweetness to the dish.
• Ritz crackers: Crushed Ritz crackers create a crispy and buttery topping for the casserole.

Feel free to customize this recipe by using different types of noodles, such as rotini or fettuccine, substituting your favorite cheese, or adding additional herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences. Experiment and make this chicken noodle casserole truly your own!

Making the Creamy Sauce

The creamy sauce for this chicken noodle casserole is made from a roux, which is created by combining butter and flour. This roux is then whisked together with chicken broth and milk to create a rich and creamy base for the casserole. The sauce is seasoned with thyme and can be customized with other herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences. The homemade sauce adds a delicious flavor to the casserole and serves as a substitute for canned cream soup.

Roux: The Secret to Creamy Sauce

To make the creamy sauce, start by melting butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, gradually whisk in flour until a smooth paste, known as a roux, forms. Cook the roux for a minute or two to remove the raw flour taste.

Whisking the Sauce Together

Next, slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking continuously. This helps prevent the sauce from becoming lumpy. Once the chicken broth is fully incorporated, add the milk and continue whisking until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Customizing with Herbs and Spices

Season the sauce with thyme for a classic flavor, but feel free to experiment with other herbs and spices to enhance the taste. Some popular options include parsley, rosemary, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for a hint of heat.

A Creamy Substitute for Canned Soup

The homemade creamy sauce in this chicken noodle casserole recipe is not only flavorful but also serves as a substitute for canned cream soup. By making the sauce from scratch, you have control over the ingredients and can avoid any artificial additives or preservatives that may be present in pre-made soups.

“The homemade sauce adds a depth of flavor to the casserole while keeping it wholesome and delicious.”

Assembling the Chicken Noodle Casserole – No Soup

To create a delectable chicken noodle casserole without using canned soup, follow these simple steps:

1. Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet, sauté the carrots, onion, celery, and garlic over medium heat until they soften and become aromatic.
3. Add the creamy sauce, cooked chicken, cheddar cheese, and frozen peas to the skillet with the vegetables and noodles.
4. Stir everything together until well combined, ensuring that all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
5. Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
6. Cover the top of the casserole with a layer of buttered Ritz cracker crumbs, adding a delightful crunch to the dish.
7. Bake the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until it is heated through and the topping turns golden and crispy.

Once baked to perfection, your chicken noodle casserole is ready to be served and enjoyed!

Note: The assembling process can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences. Feel free to add extra seasonings, herbs, or vegetables to elevate the flavors of your casserole.

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Noodle Casserole – No Soup

This chicken noodle casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it can also be paired with a variety of side dishes to enhance the dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions to complement the flavors of the casserole:

• Coleslaw: A refreshing and crunchy coleslaw adds a nice contrast to the creamy casserole.
• Salad: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette dressing provides a light and refreshing accompaniment.
• Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes can be served alongside the casserole for a hearty and filling meal.
• Cornbread: Golden and slightly sweet cornbread is a classic choice that pairs well with the savory flavors of the casserole.
• Corn Salad: A colorful corn salad with tomatoes, onions, and herbs adds vibrancy and freshness to the plate.
• Green Beans: Crisp and tender green beans, whether sautéed, steamed, or roasted, offer a nutritious and flavorful side option.
• Broccoli Cauliflower Salad: A creamy and tangy broccoli cauliflower salad provides a delicious contrast to the warm casserole.
• Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad tossed with vegetables and a light dressing can be a refreshing addition to the meal.
• Homemade Baked Beans: Rich and smoky baked beans add a touch of sweetness and depth of flavor to the plate.
• Fried Cabbage: Sautéed cabbage with bacon or other seasonings offers a savory side dish that complements the casserole.

These side dishes not only provide variety but also enhance the overall meal experience by offering different textures, flavors, and nutritional elements. Feel free to mix and match the suggestions based on your preferences and dietary needs.

Try serving this chicken noodle casserole with a side of crispy coleslaw and a fluffy baked potato for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Make Ahead and Storage Tips for Chicken Noodle Casserole – No Soup

If you want to save time, you can make this chicken noodle casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking. Simply assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, let the dish come to room temperature for at least 30 minutes before putting it in the oven.

You can also freeze the casserole before baking by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking according to the recipe instructions. Freezing the casserole is a great option for meal prepping or when you want to have a ready-to-bake meal on hand for busy days.

Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place the desired portion in the oven or microwave until heated through. This makes it a convenient option for quick and easy leftovers.

Now let’s take a look at a table summarizing the make ahead and storage instructions:

With these make ahead and storage tips, you can easily prepare this delicious chicken noodle casserole in advance and enjoy it whenever you’re in the mood for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Conclusion

Chicken noodle casserole is a classic comfort dish that can be reinvented without using canned soup. This recipe provides a step-by-step guide to creating a delicious casserole from scratch, using simple, wholesome ingredients. The homemade creamy sauce adds a richness and depth of flavor to the dish, while the combination of egg noodles, vegetables, and tender chicken creates a satisfying and hearty meal.

Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting a gathering, this chicken noodle casserole is sure to be a hit. Try it as a comforting weeknight dinner or as a make-ahead option for easy meal planning. The versatility of this recipe allows you to customize it to your taste preferences, making it a go-to favorite in your recipe collection.

Experience the homemade goodness of this no-soup chicken noodle casserole and savor the flavors of a classic dish made with love. Say goodbye to canned soup and embrace the wholesome and delicious flavors of this homemade casserole. Enjoy a comforting and satisfying meal that will warm your heart and bring joy to your dinner table.