Description

Imagine a dish that embodies comfort and indulgence in every bite—a dish that transforms leftover chicken and noodles into a luxurious, creamy casserole that truly lives up to its name. Our Million Dollar Chicken Noodle Casserole is a celebration of hearty, home-cooked flavors with a modern twist. This recipe brings together tender shredded chicken, a velvety blend of cream of chicken soup and sour cream, and a generous layer of melted cheddar cheese. Mixed with perfectly cooked egg noodles and vibrant vegetables like peas, carrots, and onions, the casserole is then crowned with a crispy, golden cracker topping that adds the ideal crunch to every forkful. Ideal for busy weeknights or relaxed family dinners, this dish promises to warm your heart and satisfy your cravings for comfort food. Every spoonful is a delightful mix of creamy, savory, and crunchy textures, making it a true crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients

• For the Casserole Base:
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great for extra flavor)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for sprinkling on top)
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup diced carrots
• ½ cup diced onion
• 2 cups egg noodles, cooked al dente and drained
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• For the Topping:
• ½ cup melted butter
• 1 cup crushed crackers (such as Ritz or saltines)

Preparation Method

1. Preheat oven to 350°F or 175°C.
2. Spray a 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or grease with butter.
3. In a large bowl, mix shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, frozen peas, diced carrots, diced onion, and cooked egg noodles. Season with salt and pepper and stir well.
4. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
5. In a small bowl, combine crushed crackers with melted butter and stir until coated.
6. Sprinkle the cracker mixture over the casserole.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
8. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tips and Conclusion

For an extra twist on this classic, consider adding a handful of diced bell peppers or even a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the meat sauce for additional depth of flavor. If you enjoy a little spice, a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes can elevate the dish without overpowering its comforting character. Also, feel free to customize the vegetables to your preference—broccoli or corn could work wonderfully in place of some of the peas or carrots. For those looking to keep the dish even more budget-friendly, substituting frozen vegetables is a great option. Finally, if you plan to serve this casserole at a gathering, prepare it a few hours ahead of time to let the flavors fully develop and then reheat it in the oven before serving.

The Million Dollar Chicken Noodle Casserole is a true embodiment of comfort food that transforms everyday ingredients into a sumptuous, crowd-pleasing dish. With its rich, creamy base, tender chicken, and satisfying crunch from the cracker topping, every bite is a blend of textures and flavors that warms the heart and soul. This casserole is perfect for those busy nights when you crave a hearty meal that requires minimal effort, yet delivers maximum satisfaction. We invite you to try this recipe, experiment with your favorite additions, and share your experiences with friends and family. Explore more of our comforting and delicious recipes on our site, and let your culinary journey continue with dishes that are as delightful as they are practical. Enjoy every mouthful of this classic casserole and savor the warmth it brings to your table!