This creamy chicken and noodle casserole is a comforting dish packed with flavorful chicken, tender noodles, and a rich, creamy sauce. The addition of paprika, oregano, and fresh parsley gives the dish a delightful depth of flavor, while the cream and cheese create a luscious, velvety texture. Perfect for a family meal, this dish is easy to prepare and will satisfy everyone at the table.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4-6
Ingredients
- 250g small noodles
- 400g chicken mince
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 piece paprika, chopped
- 2 celery sticks, diced
- 200g tomato paste
- 8 cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1/2 tsp ground pepper
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 500g cream (12% fat)
- 20g flour
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 100g grated cheese (such as mozzarella or cheddar)
Directions
-
Cook the Noodles:
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the small noodles according to the package instructions. Once done, drain and set aside. -
Prepare the Chicken:
While the noodles are cooking, heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chicken mince and cook, breaking it up into small pieces, until browned and fully cooked, about 7-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside. -
Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pan, add the diced onion, minced garlic, and chopped paprika. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the celery sticks and continue cooking for an additional 2 minutes. -
Make the Sauce:
Stir in the tomato paste, halved cherry tomatoes, oregano, and ground pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften. Add the flour to the pan and cook for another minute, stirring to combine everything evenly. -
Add the Cream:
Slowly pour in the cream, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. -
Combine Chicken, Noodles, and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken mince to the pan with the creamy sauce. Stir in the cooked noodles, ensuring they are evenly coated with the sauce. Season with salt to taste. -
Bake the Casserole:
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Transfer the chicken and noodle mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the grated cheese on top and bake for 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. -
Serve:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or green beans, for added nutrition.
- Pair with a light, fresh salad to balance out the richness of the creamy casserole.
- For a heartier meal, enjoy the casserole with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Cooking Tips
- You can use any type of small noodles for this recipe, such as penne, fusilli, or elbow macaroni.
- For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture for some heat.
- If you prefer a lower-fat version, you can substitute the cream with a lighter cream or milk, although the sauce will be less rich.
Nutritional Benefits
- Chicken Mince: A great source of lean protein, which helps build and repair tissues and supports muscle growth.
- Celery and Onion: Both vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals, including fiber, vitamin C, and potassium, supporting digestive and heart health.
- Cream: Adds richness and a satisfying texture, but you can use lighter versions for a healthier option.
- Tomato Paste: Packed with antioxidants like lycopene, which supports heart health and helps protect against certain cancers.
Conclusion This creamy chicken and noodle casserole is the perfect combination of comfort and flavor. With tender noodles, juicy chicken, and a creamy sauce, it’s a dish that everyone will love. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this casserole is sure to impress. Easy to make and delicious, it’s a meal you can enjoy time and time again.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Just bake it before serving, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.
2. Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute the chicken mince with ground turkey, beef, or even vegetarian protein options like lentils or tofu.
3. Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Simply prepare and bake it, then let it cool completely before freezing. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven before serving.
4. Can I add more vegetables to the casserole?
Yes, feel free to add vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to the sauce for more flavor and nutrition.
5. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta and flour for this recipe to make it gluten-free. Make sure to check the labels for any hidden gluten ingredients.