When it comes to planning a delicious and satisfying dinner, a chicken and noodle casserole is an absolute winner. This ultimate chicken and noodle casserole is a true gem, packed with a plethora of ingredients that come together to create a quick and hearty meal that the whole family will love. And what's even better? You can pair it with a side salad for a well - rounded dining experience.

Let's start by discussing the key ingredients that make this casserole so special. First and foremost, we have the chicken. You can use either cooked and shredded chicken breast or thigh. Chicken breast offers a leaner option, while thigh meat is a bit more flavorful and juicy. The choice depends on your personal preference. The chicken serves as the protein base of the casserole, providing a substantial and filling element to the dish.

Next up are the noodles. Egg noodles are a classic choice for this type of casserole. Their wide and flat shape allows them to soak up the rich and savory sauce, adding a wonderful texture to each bite. You can cook the noodles al dente before adding them to the casserole, ensuring that they maintain a bit of a bite even after baking in the oven.

The sauce is the heart and soul of this chicken and noodle casserole. You can make a simple yet delicious white sauce using butter, flour, and milk. Start by melting the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook the roux for a couple of minutes until it turns a light golden color. Then, slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Keep whisking until the sauce thickens. You can season the sauce with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and a touch of paprika for a bit of color and flavor.

To make the casserole even more exciting, you can add a variety of vegetables. Carrots are a great addition as they add a natural sweetness and a pop of color. You can cut them into small, bite - sized pieces and add them to the casserole. Peas are another classic vegetable for this dish. They are not only nutritious but also add a bright green color and a fresh flavor. You can use either fresh or frozen peas, depending on what's available.

Now, let's talk about the assembly process. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked noodles, vegetables, and the prepared sauce. Mix everything together well until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the sauce. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. You can top the casserole with a layer of shredded cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella. The cheese will melt and form a delicious, golden - brown crust on top of the casserole during baking.

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 - 35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges of the casserole are starting to turn golden brown. While the casserole is baking, you can prepare the side salad. A simple green salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette dressing is a perfect accompaniment to the rich and hearty casserole.

Once the casserole is done baking, take it out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together even more. Serve the chicken and noodle casserole hot, along with the side salad. Each bite of the casserole is a combination of tender chicken, soft noodles, flavorful sauce, and delicious vegetables, making it a truly satisfying meal.

In conclusion, this chicken and noodle casserole is a versatile and easy - to - make dish that is perfect for a weeknight dinner. It can be customized according to your taste preferences by adding different vegetables or seasonings. So, the next time you're looking for a quick and hearty dinner idea, give this ultimate chicken and noodle casserole a try. You won't be disappointed!