If you love the comforting flavors of classic chicken pot pie but are looking for something a bit different, this Chicken Pot Pie Noodle Dish is the perfect recipe for you. Combining tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a creamy sauce with soft, delicious noodles, this dish is an easy weeknight meal that the whole family will love. It's a satisfying combination of all the flavors and textures you expect from a pot pie, but with the simplicity of a noodle casserole. No wonder it’s a dish you’ll want to eat every week!
Step 1: Cook the noodles
Start by boiling a large pot of water and cooking the 12 oz of egg noodles according to the package instructions. Cook them until they are al dente, which usually takes about 6-7 minutes. Drain the noodles and set them aside.
Step 2: Prepare the chicken
If you don’t already have pre-cooked chicken, now is the time to cook and shred or dice 2 cups of chicken. You can use leftover roasted chicken, rotisserie chicken, or even boiled chicken breasts. The tender chicken pieces will be the main protein in the dish, providing heartiness and flavor.
Step 3: Mix the creamy sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 can of cream of chicken soup, 1 cup of milk, and 1/2 cup of sour cream. Stir well to create a smooth, creamy base for the dish. Then, add 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder, 1/4 teaspoon of thyme, and season with salt and pepper to taste. This sauce will coat the noodles, chicken, and vegetables with comforting creaminess.
Step 4: Add the vegetables and chicken
To the creamy mixture, add the shredded chicken and 2 cups of frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, and corn). These vegetables provide color, texture, and nutrition to the dish, while the chicken adds protein and richness. Stir everything together to make sure the chicken and vegetables are evenly distributed in the sauce.
Step 5: Combine with noodles
Gently fold the cooked egg noodles into the creamy chicken and vegetable mixture. Be careful not to overmix, as you want the noodles to remain intact and coated with the sauce. This step ensures that every bite of the casserole is filled with delicious flavors and textures.
Step 6: Transfer to a baking dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the noodle mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. This will allow the casserole to bake evenly and develop a golden, crispy topping.
Step 7: Prepare the topping
In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of crushed butter crackers (like Ritz) with 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Mix until the cracker crumbs are evenly coated with butter. This buttery topping adds a delightful crunch to the casserole, which contrasts nicely with the creamy noodles.
Step 8: Add the cheese and topping
Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the noodle dish. The cheese will melt and create a gooey, delicious layer. Then, evenly distribute the buttered cracker crumbs over the cheese layer, creating a crunchy and flavorful topping.
Step 9: Bake the casserole
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the topping is golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on the topping to make sure it doesn’t over-brown.
Step 10: Serve
Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the dish to set slightly, making it easier to slice and serve. Enjoy this comforting Chicken Pot Pie Noodle Dish with your family for a satisfying and delicious meal!
Bonus Tip:
For an extra flavor boost, try adding a few strips of cooked bacon to the dish before baking. You can also sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or chives over the top for a pop of color and freshness. Additionally, feel free to customize the vegetable mix with whatever you have on hand, like green beans or broccoli!
Conclusion:
This Chicken Pot Pie Noodle Dish is the perfect comfort food for any night of the week. Combining the best of a classic pot pie with the ease of a noodle casserole, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. With tender chicken, creamy noodles, and a crunchy topping, every bite is a delight. Follow this simple recipe, and enjoy a delicious, satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and even easier to love!