Southern Chicken Noodle Casserole with Pimiento and Parmesan
A comforting Southern-style casserole featuring tender egg noodles layered with diced chicken in a rich, creamy sauce made from scratch. The addition of colorful pimientos and sautéed mushrooms gives this family-friendly dish a distinctive flavor that sets it apart from basic chicken and noodle recipes. Topped with golden parmesan cheese, this hearty meal works perfectly for weeknight dinners or potluck gatherings when you need something satisfying that feeds a crowd.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Cook noodles according to package directions and drain
- 2
Melt butter in a large skillet over low heat
- 3
Saute mushrooms until tender
- 4
Blend in flour, stirring until smooth
- 5
Gradually add broth, milk, pimiento, salt and pepper, stirring constantly until sauce is thickened
- 6
Combine noodles, chicken and sauce in a buttered 2 1/2 quart casserole
- 7
Sprinkle parmesan cheese over top
- 8
Bake 20 to 25 minutes in a preheated 350 degree oven
Tips
Use rotisserie chicken for convenience - it adds extra flavor and saves cooking time
Make sure to stir the flour mixture constantly to prevent lumps from forming in your sauce
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking to help it set before serving
Good to Know
Cover and refrigerate up to 3 days
Assemble completely and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking - add 5-10 minutes to cook time
Let rest 5 minutes after baking, serve hot with crusty bread or simple green salad
Common Mistakes
Don't skip stirring the flour mixture constantly to avoid lumpy sauce
Don't overbake or the noodles will become mushy and the top will brown too much
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
Gluten-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, assemble without baking, wrap tightly and freeze up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before baking as directed.
What if I don't have pimientos?
You can substitute diced red bell peppers or roasted red peppers, or simply omit them - the dish will still taste great.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any short pasta like penne, rotini or shells works well. Use the same amount and cook according to package directions.