If you’re craving a cozy, comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe is absolutely where you want to be. Combining tender shredded chicken, perfectly cooked egg noodles, and a creamy, cheesy sauce with just the right pop of veggies, it’s simplicity at its finest with flavors that satisfy every time. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this casserole brings that nostalgic homemade vibe that’s pure comfort food at its best.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe has a special role, coming together to create a dish that is creamy, flavorful, and delightfully textured. From the tender noodles to the rich cheese and the fresh burst of peas and carrots, every component matters.
- 12 oz egg noodles: The perfect base, tender yet firm enough to hold all the creamy goodness without turning mushy.
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced): For hearty protein and that satisfying meaty texture, rotisserie chicken works wonderfully here.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: This adds creamy richness that forms the backbone of the sauce.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Enhances creaminess with a slight tang that balances the flavors.
- 1/2 cup milk: Lightens the sauce so it’s smooth and luscious without being too thick.
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (thawed): Adds a touch of natural sweetness and appealing color to brighten the dish.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully and delivers that classic sharp cheesiness everyone loves.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a subtle warm flavor that elevates the savory profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Complements the garlic and deepens the overall seasoning without overpowering.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for bringing all the flavors together perfectly.
- 1/2 cup crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs: Creates a golden, crispy topping that contrasts the creamy interior wonderfully.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter: Helps the topping brown beautifully while adding a rich, buttery crunch.
How to Make Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Noodles and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. Cooking the egg noodles until al dente is key here—they should be tender but still have a slight bite to hold up under the creamy sauce without becoming mushy later on.
Step 2: Combine the Creamy Base
In a large bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This mixture is where all the creamy, flavorful magic happens—it’s the rich, velvety sauce that coats every bite of noodles and chicken.
Step 3: Mix in Chicken, Veggies, and Cheese
Add the cooked chicken, thawed peas and carrots, and shredded cheddar cheese into the sauce mixture. Folding in these ingredients now ensures that every strand of noodle and bit of chicken will be infused with cheesy, savory goodness in the final bake.
Step 4: Combine with Noodles and Transfer to Dish
Next, fold the cooked noodles into the sauce mixture gently until everything is evenly coated. Pour this luscious combination into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure consistent cooking and a perfect crust later on.
Step 5: Prepare and Add the Topping
Mix the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter in a small bowl. This topping will bake to a golden, crunchy finish that contrasts beautifully with the creamy casserole underneath. Sprinkle it evenly over the top.
Step 6: Bake Until Bubbly and Golden
Place the casserole in the oven uncovered and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s hot and bubbly throughout, with a golden, crispy topping that invites you to dig in. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving, allowing all the flavors to settle and the casserole to set perfectly.
How to Serve Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives brightens up the warm, creamy casserole with a pop of color and a fresh herbaceous flavor that cuts through the richness wonderfully.
Side Dishes
Pair this casserole with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or some roasted seasonal vegetables to add crunch and additional nutrients, providing a perfect balance to the creamy, hearty main dish.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests or simply enjoy your meal more, serve the casserole in individual ramekins or small cast-iron skillets. Topping each with a little extra cheese before baking creates cute, personal cheesy crusts that delight every diner.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe reheats beautifully, making it ideal for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
You can freeze the casserole, either before or after baking. For best results, assemble the casserole and cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap, freezing for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking or reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes, to regain that freshly baked texture. Alternatively, microwave in shorter intervals, stirring occasionally for even heating.
FAQs
Can I use leftover chicken for the Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover cooked chicken is perfect and saves prep time. Just shred or dice it and fold it in as directed in the recipe.
Can I substitute the cream of chicken soup?
Yes, cream of mushroom or celery soup can be swapped in for a slightly different but still delicious flavor profile. You can also make your own homemade creamy sauce if preferred.
Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
For a vegetarian twist, omit the chicken and add extra veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach. Use a vegetarian cream soup alternative to maintain that creamy texture.
How do I get a crispier topping on my casserole?
Using buttery crackers mixed with melted butter, as in this recipe, creates a great crispy crust. You can also broil the top for 2-3 minutes at the end if you want an extra crunch, just watch carefully to prevent burning.
Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the sour cream with a dairy-free alternative, use a plant-based milk, and pick a dairy-free cheese or simply omit the cheese to suit dairy-free diets.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe is more than just dinner — it’s a comforting classic that brings warmth, satisfaction, and a touch of nostalgia to your table. I promise, once you make it, it’ll quickly become one of your go-to dishes for busy nights or cozy weekends. Give it a try and enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite as much as I do!
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Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A comforting and creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole made with tender egg noodles, shredded chicken, and a cheesy, flavorful sauce. This easy-to-make baked dish combines a classic blend of cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and thawed vegetables, topped with a buttery, crunchy cracker crust for a delicious family-friendly dinner.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz egg noodles
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Topping
- 1/2 cup crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Cook Noodles: Prepare the egg noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain the noodles thoroughly and set them aside to cool slightly.
- Mix Sauce and Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir this mixture until smooth and well blended.
- Add Chicken, Vegetables, and Cheese: Fold in the cooked chicken, thawed peas and carrots, and shredded cheddar cheese into the sauce mixture. Stir well to incorporate all the ingredients evenly.
- Combine with Noodles: Add the cooked noodles into the bowl and mix everything thoroughly until the noodles are fully coated with the creamy mixture.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the noodle and chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure uniform baking.
- Prepare and Add Topping: In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter until well combined. Sprinkle this buttery topping evenly over the casserole’s surface to create a crunchy crust.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the mixture is hot, bubbly, and the topping has turned a golden brown color.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set and cool slightly.
Notes
- Rotisserie chicken makes a convenient and flavorful shortcut for this recipe.
- Feel free to substitute cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or celery soup for a different flavor profile.
- For added depth, try sautéing onions or mushrooms and adding them to the mixture before baking.
