Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Noodle Casserole 🥦🍗🧀

This hearty and comforting casserole is a crowd-pleaser that combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a creamy cheese sauce, all nestled in perfectly cooked noodles. It's an excellent way to use up leftover chicken or to whip up a quick dinner that will keep everyone satisfied! Pair it with a crisp side salad or some warm garlic bread for a complete meal! 🥗🍞

Ingredients

For the casserole

• 2 cups of cooked egg noodles
• 2 cups of cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great!)
• 2 cups of fresh or frozen broccoli florets (thawed if frozen)
• 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup of cream of mushroom soup (or a homemade substitute)
• 1/2 cup of milk (or chicken broth for added flavor)
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon of onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon of paprika (for a touch of warmth)

For the topping

• 1 cup of breadcrumbs (panko for extra crispiness!)
• 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 tablespoons of melted butter
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked egg noodles, shredded chicken, broccoli florets, cheddar cheese, cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix until everything is well combined.

   🥄 Feel free to mix in other veggies too! Sliced bell peppers or peas can add extra color and nutrients.

3. Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.

4. In a separate bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and melted butter. Mix until the breadcrumbs are lightly coated.

5. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the casserole.

6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.

   🔥 For added crunch, you can broil for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end, but keep a close eye to avoid burning!

7. Remove from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.

   🍽️ This casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and it reheats beautifully in the microwave or oven!

Variations

• Gluten-free: Substitute egg noodles with gluten-free pasta and ensure your cream soup is gluten-free as well. 🥳
• Creamier: Add an extra half-cup of cheese or a dollop of sour cream for a creamier texture.
• Spicy: Mix in some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a bit of heat! 🌶️
• Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and add more broccoli or your favorite vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or carrots for a delicious veggie version!

Enjoy your Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Noodle Casserole, where comfort food meets wholesome ingredients! 🥳✨