Chicken Noodle Casserole is a comforting, creamy, and cheesy dish that combines tender chicken, egg noodles, and a rich sauce. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or family dinners, delivering a hearty and satisfying meal in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: Uses simple pantry staples for quick preparation.
- Comfort Food Classic: A warm and hearty dish the whole family will love.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Great for meal prep and leftovers.
- Customizable: Easily adjustable with different vegetables, cheeses, or protein options.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for potlucks, gatherings, or cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Egg noodles
- Cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- Cream of chicken soup (or homemade substitute)
- Milk
- Sour cream
- Cheddar cheese, shredded
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Frozen peas and carrots (or other vegetables of choice)
- Salt and pepper
- Butter
- Bread crumbs or crushed crackers for topping
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Set to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook Noodles: Boil egg noodles until al dente, then drain.
- Prepare Sauce: In a large bowl, mix cream of chicken soup, milk, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir in cooked chicken, cooked noodles, peas, carrots, and half of the shredded cheese. Mix well.
- Assemble Casserole: Pour mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Add Topping: Melt butter and mix with bread crumbs or crushed crackers. Sprinkle over the casserole, followed by remaining cheese.
- Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve: Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6-8
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Variations
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free noodles and a gluten-free cream soup alternative.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
- Protein Swap: Use turkey or ham instead of chicken.
- Vegetarian: Replace chicken with mushrooms or extra veggies.
- Extra Creamy: Stir in cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze before baking for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut for this recipe.
What type of noodles work best?
Egg noodles are traditional, but penne or rotini also work well.
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Yes, just sauté them slightly before adding to the casserole.
How can I make this casserole lighter?
Use low-fat sour cream, reduced-fat cheese, and a homemade soup alternative.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
What’s the best topping for extra crunch?
Crushed Ritz crackers, panko breadcrumbs, or cornflakes work well.
Can I add more cheese?
Absolutely! Try mixing in mozzarella or Parmesan for extra flavor.
How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?
Do not overbake, and ensure there is enough sauce to coat the noodles.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, cook on low for 4-5 hours or until heated through.
Is this casserole kid-friendly?
Yes, it’s creamy, cheesy, and mild in flavor—perfect for picky eaters.
Conclusion
Chicken Noodle Casserole is a comforting and delicious meal that is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy dish to share with loved ones, this casserole delivers every time. Try it today and enjoy a hearty, homemade meal!
Print
Chicken Noodle Casserole
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Chicken Noodle Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish packed with tender chicken, egg noodles, and a rich, flavorful sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a hearty family meal!
Ingredients
- 12 oz egg noodles (cooked & drained)
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (or mixed vegetables)
- 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs (for topping)
- 2 tbsp melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, mix cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in the cooked chicken, shredded cheese, cooked egg noodles, and vegetables.
- Transfer the mixture to the baking dish and spread evenly.
- In a small bowl, mix crushed crackers with melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown and bubbly.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Make It Healthier: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free noodles and soup.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
- Calories: ~450 kcal
- Sugar: ~4g
- Sodium: ~700mg
- Fat: ~22g
- Saturated Fat: ~10g
- Unsaturated Fat: ~10g
- Trans Fat: ~0g
- Carbohydrates: ~40g
- Fiber: ~2g
- Protein: ~25g
- Cholesterol: ~85mg
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