The Pioneer Woman Chicken Noodle Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken, egg noodles, and vegetables in a creamy, cheesy sauce. This hearty dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or feeding a crowd. Follow this comprehensive guide to create a delicious and satisfying meal that your family will love.
What is Pioneer Woman Chicken Noodle Casserole?
The Pioneer Woman Chicken Noodle Casserole is a savory dish made with cooked chicken, egg noodles, and a medley of vegetables, all enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce and topped with cheese. It’s baked to perfection, creating a warm and comforting meal.
Other Pioneer Woman Recipes
- Hillbilly Hamburger Casserole
- Cowboy Caviar Recipe Pioneer Woman
- Pioneer Woman Broccoli Chicken Rice Casserole
Why You Should Try This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: Simple steps make this casserole a breeze to whip up.
- Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy this delicious dish.
- Great for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day.
- Customizable: Easily modify with your favorite vegetables or cheese.
- Perfect for Gatherings: Ideal for potlucks or family get-togethers.
- Nutritious and Satisfying: Packed with protein and veggies, it’s a complete meal.
Ingredients Needed for Pioneer Woman Chicken Noodle Casserole
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 12 oz egg noodles
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
- Cooking spray
Instructions to Make Pioneer Woman Chicken Noodle Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked noodles, frozen peas and carrots, and frozen corn.
- Add the condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and chopped onion to the bowl. Mix well.
- Season with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
- Pour in the chicken broth and mix until everything is evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Top with shredded mozzarella cheese if desired.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
What Goes Well With Pioneer Woman Chicken Noodle Casserole
- Fresh Green Salad: Adds a crisp, refreshing contrast to the rich casserole.
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up any extra creamy sauce.
- Steamed Vegetables: Lighten up the meal with a side of steamed veggies.
- Fruit Salad: A sweet and tangy fruit salad complements the savory casserole.
- Mashed Potatoes: For an extra comforting side dish.
- Iced Tea: A refreshing beverage to wash down the hearty meal.
Essential Tips for Perfecting Pioneer Woman Chicken Noodle Casserole
- Cook Noodles Al Dente: Slightly undercooked the noodles to prevent them from becoming mushy.
- Use Fresh Veggies: Fresh vegetables can enhance the texture and flavor.
- Shred Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains additives that prevent it from melting smoothly.
- Add a Crunchy Topping: Top with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for added texture.
- Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving to let it set.
- Season to Taste: Adjust the seasoning to suit your family’s preferences.
- Use Leftover Chicken: Rotisserie chicken works great for this recipe.
Variations of Pioneer Woman Chicken Noodle Casserole
- Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with tofu or a variety of mushrooms.
- Spicy Twist: Add a diced jalapeno or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
- Different Cheese: Swap out the cheddar for Swiss, Monterey Jack, or Gruyere.
- Add Bacon: Sprinkle cooked bacon bits on top for extra flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free noodles and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
- Italian Style: Add some marinara sauce and Italian seasoning for an Italian twist.
Storing Pioneer Woman Chicken Noodle Casserole: Best Practices
- Cool Completely: Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
- Airtight Containers: Use airtight containers to keep it fresh.
- Refrigerate: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freeze for Longer Storage: For extended storage, freeze the casserole in portions.
Reheating Pioneer Woman Chicken Noodle Casserole: Best Practices
- Microwave: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes.
- Oven: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.
- Add Moisture: Cover with foil and add a splash of broth if it looks dry.
- Avoid Overheating: Reheat just until warmed through to avoid drying it out.
How can I make Pioneer Woman Chicken Noodle Casserole healthier?
To make Pioneer Woman Chicken Noodle Casserole healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Use Whole Grain Noodles: Swap regular egg noodles with whole grain or whole wheat noodles to increase fiber content.
- Low-Fat Dairy: Use low-fat or fat-free versions of sour cream, cheese, and mayonnaise to reduce fat and calorie intake.
- Add More Vegetables: Incorporate additional vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for added vitamins and minerals.
- Lean Chicken: Use skinless, boneless chicken breasts to reduce fat content.
- Homemade Soup Substitute: Make a homemade version of the cream of chicken soup with reduced sodium and fewer preservatives.
- Reduce Cheese: Cut back on the amount of cheese or use a lower-fat cheese option.
- Greek Yogurt: Substitute sour cream with plain Greek yogurt for added protein and a lower fat content.
Nutrition Value (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 5g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 750mg
FAQs
How do I prevent the casserole from becoming too dry?
To prevent the casserole from becoming too dry, ensure the egg noodles are cooked al dente and don’t overbake the casserole. Adding a bit more chicken broth or using a creamier soup base can also help maintain moisture. Covering the dish with foil while baking and removing it during the last few minutes can help achieve the perfect balance of creamy and golden-brown textures.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this casserole ahead of time. Assemble the casserole as instructed, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed to ensure it’s heated through.
Is it better to use fresh or frozen vegetables in a casserole?
Both fresh and frozen vegetables can be used in a casserole, but fresh vegetables often provide a better texture. Fresh vegetables retain a slight crunch after baking, while frozen vegetables can become softer and more watery. If using frozen vegetables, thaw and drain them thoroughly before adding them to the casserole to avoid excess moisture.
How can I make this casserole healthier?
To make this casserole healthier, use whole grain noodles instead of regular egg noodles, and opt for low-fat or fat-free versions of sour cream, cheese, and mayonnaise. Adding extra vegetables like spinach or bell peppers and using lean chicken breasts can also enhance the nutritional value. Substitute plain Greek yogurt for sour cream to increase protein and reduce fat content.
Final Words
The Pioneer Woman Chicken Noodle Casserole is a timeless classic that delivers comfort and satisfaction in every bite. Its creamy, cheesy goodness combined with tender chicken and hearty noodles makes it a favorite for any occasion. Enjoy making this delicious casserole, and savor the joy it brings to your family table.
Other Yummy Recipes:
- Pioneer Woman Chicken Enchilada Casserole
- Pioneer Woman Cowboy Breakfast Casserole
- Pioneer Woman Green Bean Casserole With Mushrooms
- Pioneer Woman Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole
Pioneer Woman Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 30
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
The Pioneer Woman Chicken Noodle Casserole is a savory dish made with cooked chicken, egg noodles, and a medley of vegetables, all enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce and topped with cheese. It’s baked to perfection, creating a warm and comforting meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 12 oz egg noodles
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked noodles, frozen peas and carrots, and frozen corn.
- Add the condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and chopped onion to the bowl. Mix well.
- Season with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
- Pour in the chicken broth and mix until everything is evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Top with shredded mozzarella cheese if desired.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
