Why the Chicken Vermicelli Is a Great Chicken Dish
When it comes to comfort food, Chicken Vermicelli stands out as a fantastic choice.
I love how this dish combines tender chicken with a creamy sauce, making every bite feel indulgent yet satisfying. The vermicelli adds a delightful texture, soaking up all those flavors beautifully.
It’s perfect for cozy family dinners or when I want to impress guests. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead, which is a lifesaver in my busy life.
Whenever I serve it, the smiles on everyone’s faces tell me I’ve hit the mark with this comforting, delicious meal.
Ingredients of Chicken Vermicelli
When it comes to gathering all the ingredients for Chicken Vermicelli, it’s like preparing for a cozy night in. You want everything on hand so that when the cooking begins, you can just dive right in without scrambling around the kitchen like a headless chicken (pun intended).
Luckily, the ingredients list isn’t too long, but each item plays a vital role in transforming simple components into a delightful casserole. So, let’s get to it and make sure we’ve everything we need to create this comfort food classic.
Ingredients for Chicken Vermicelli:
- 1 (16 ounce) package of vermicelli, broken into 3- to 4-inch pieces
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- Salt and pepper (you don’t want to forget these)
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 10 ounces canned diced tomatoes
- 3 ounces canned diced green chiles
- 2 cups skim milk
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup frozen green peas
- 4 cups cooked boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Now, before you start throwing things into a pot, let’s talk about a few considerations.
First, feel free to customize the veggies based on your taste. If you’re not a fan of bell peppers, maybe throw in some mushrooms or zucchini instead.
And if you want a little kick, those diced green chiles can be swapped for something spicier. Also, if you’re watching your calories, you can use low-fat cheese or even a dairy-free alternative.
Just remember, every little tweak changes the flavor profile, but that’s the beauty of cooking—it’s all about making it your own. So gather your ingredients and get ready for a delicious ride with Chicken Vermicelli.
How to Make Chicken Vermicelli
Making Chicken Vermicelli is like orchestrating a delightful symphony in your kitchen, and trust me, it’s easier than you might think. So, grab that 16-ounce package of vermicelli and break it into 3- to 4-inch pieces if you haven’t already. While you’re at it, put a big pot of water on the stove to boil. Once it’s bubbling away, toss in the vermicelli, cooking it according to the package instructions until it’s tender. Drain it and set it aside, giving it a moment to cool while you get your other ingredients ready. It’s like letting your pasta take a little breather before stepping into the spotlight.
Now, let’s talk about the star of the show: the chicken. If you’ve cooked up some boneless skinless chicken breasts ahead of time, great! You’ll need about 4 cups, cubed. If not, you can easily whip this up in a crockpot by cooking whole chickens with a sprinkle of salt, pepper, and a cup of water until they’re tender and falling off the bone. Don’t forget to save that broth for later; it’s liquid gold.
Next up, in a non-stick pot, sauté 1 chopped yellow onion, 1 chopped bell pepper, and 1 tablespoon of minced garlic until they’re nice and soft. Stir in 2 tablespoons of flour to thicken things up a bit, then add in 10 ounces of canned diced tomatoes, 2 cups of skim milk, and 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil, stirring until it thickens. Lower the heat and fold in 1 cup of frozen green peas—your casserole will thank you for the extra color and nutrition.
Now that your sauce is ready, it’s time to bring everything together. Add the cubed chicken and 1 ½ cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese into the mix, stirring until everything is thoroughly combined and heated through. This is where the magic happens. Pour that glorious concoction over the vermicelli in your baking dish, and you’re almost there.
If you’re planning to freeze it for later, let it cool down to room temperature first, then wrap it up tightly, label it, and toss it in the freezer. It can sit pretty for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to dig in, just thaw it out, preheat your oven to 350°F, and bake for 30-40 minutes until it’s all bubbly and golden. I mean, who doesn’t love a dish that’s just as comforting when you pull it from the oven as when you first made it? Enjoy your culinary adventure!
Chicken Vermicelli Substitutions & Variations
While preparing Chicken Vermicelli, I often find myself thinking about the endless possibilities for substitutions and variations that can elevate this dish.
For a healthier twist, I sometimes swap out the vermicelli for whole wheat pasta or even zucchini noodles. If I want to add a kick, I toss in jalapeños or spicy sausage.
Instead of chicken, shredded rotisserie turkey or even tofu works great for a vegetarian option. I love experimenting with different cheeses too; pepper jack adds a nice zing!
Don’t hesitate to customize the veggies based on what’s in season or what you have on hand. Enjoy the creativity!
What to Serve with Chicken Vermicelli
To enhance your Chicken Vermicelli experience, consider pairing it with a fresh side salad or some roasted vegetables.
I love a crisp garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette—it complements the rich flavors of the casserole beautifully. If you’re in the mood for something warm, roasted carrots and asparagus add a lovely touch.
You could also serve a side of garlic bread for that extra comfort factor. For a revitalizing drink, a chilled lemonade or iced tea is perfect to balance the meal.
These options will elevate your dinner and make it even more enjoyable!
Additional Tips & Notes
Pairing your Chicken Vermicelli with a fresh side salad or roasted vegetables can enhance the meal, but there are a few additional tips to contemplate for an even better experience.
Consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs, like parsley or basil, to brighten the dish. If you enjoy a bit of spice, try incorporating red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
I also recommend using low-sodium broth for a healthier option. When storing leftovers, keep the chicken and sauce separate from the vermicelli to maintain texture.
Finally, feel free to experiment with different cheeses for a unique twist!