Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe

If you love classic comfort food that brings everyone to the table—and maybe even brings back some childhood memories—this Chicken Noodle Casserole is about to become your new go-to weeknight dinner. It’s creamy, cheesy, brimming with veggies, and satisfyingly hearty without being fussy. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for something that reheats beautifully, this dish ticks all the right boxes. With every bite, you’ll understand why Chicken Noodle Casserole holds a forever spot in cozy casserole traditions.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in a great Chicken Noodle Casserole plays an important supporting role, from the tender noodles to the pop of color from thawed veggies. These simple building blocks come together quickly and create big flavor—just the way a reliable casserole should.

• Egg noodles (3 cups, cooked): Their texture soaks up all that creamy sauce and holds up well through baking.
• Cooked shredded chicken (2 cups): Rotisserie or leftover roasted chicken makes this step a breeze, but you can cook your own if you prefer.
• Frozen peas and carrots (1 cup, thawed): Adds sweetness, color, and just the right veggie balance in every scoop.
• Cream of chicken soup (1 can, 10.5 oz): The essential creamy foundation, bringing savory depth to the sauce.
• Sour cream (1/2 cup): Lends tanginess that cuts through the richness for a balanced flavor.
• Milk (1/2 cup): Helps to thin the sauce just enough to coat everything beautifully.
• Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Melts into gooey, savory bliss—the soul of casserole comfort!
• Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Adds just the right hint of warmth and depth to the casserole.
• Onion powder (1/2 teaspoon): Infuses flavor more evenly than fresh onions while keeping prep easy.
• Salt and pepper (to taste): Seasonings that pull all the flavors together—taste as you go!
• Crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs (1/2 cup): For a golden, crunchy topping that finishes the dish.
• Melted butter (2 tablespoons): Binding the topping and giving it irresistible flavor and color.

How to Make Chicken Noodle Casserole

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish and Oven

Set your oven to preheat at 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures the casserole comes out easily later and guarantees those edges will be crispy and golden. Prepping first means your Chicken Noodle Casserole will go from bowl to oven with zero fuss.

Step 2: Mix Up the Main Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, toss in your cooked egg noodles, shredded chicken, thawed peas and carrots, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and a good pinch each of salt and pepper. Stir everything until well combined. You’ll want the creamy sauce and cheese to coat every noodle and piece of chicken so each bite bursts with flavor.

Step 3: Pour and Smooth

Transfer the fully mixed casserole base into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly with a spatula or spoon. You don’t want any corner to miss out on cheesy, creamy goodness—this step keeps the bake even and ensures a perfect bite every time.

Step 4: Prep the Crunchy Topping

In a small bowl, combine your crushed buttery crackers (or breadcrumbs) with melted butter. Stir until every crumb is evenly coated; this is the magic that gives your Chicken Noodle Casserole its crunchy, buttery top. Sprinkle this mixture over the casserole for maximum texture and flavor contrast.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Place the casserole on a middle rack and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top turns bubbly and golden brown. This step lets all the flavors meld, the cheese melt, and the topping get perfectly toasted—so hard to resist when it’s piping hot and aromatic!

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Remove your Chicken Noodle Casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This makes it easier to cut, helps everything set, and prevents burned mouths from eager eaters. Now you’re ready to slice, scoop, and enjoy!

How to Serve Chicken Noodle Casserole

Garnishes

Brighten up your casserole with fresh chopped parsley, a sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar, or even a few snipped green onions for color and a little kick. This finishing touch wakes up the flavors and makes your Chicken Noodle Casserole look like it came straight from a family cookbook.

Side Dishes

This casserole is hearty on its own, but a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is the perfect partner. Sometimes, I’ll add buttered green beans or roasted broccoli on the side to sneak in more veggies and keep everything light and fresh.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, scoop Chicken Noodle Casserole into ramekins for individual bakes at your next dinner party, or spoon it into hollowed-out bell peppers before baking for a colorful, veggie-packed feast. Kids especially love it when you top each serving with extra crunchy crackers!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let leftover casserole cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or tightly cover your baking dish with foil. Chicken Noodle Casserole keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it perfect for meal prep or next-day lunches.

Freezing

If you want to freeze leftovers or an entire unbaked casserole, simply assemble as directed (but wait to add the cracker topping until just before baking). Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

Reheating

To reheat, place individual servings in the microwave or cover the baking dish with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through—about 20 minutes. If your topping has lost its crunch, pop the casserole under the broiler for a minute to crisp it right back up!

FAQs

Can I use a different kind of noodle?

Absolutely! While egg noodles deliver that signature Chicken Noodle Casserole texture, you can easily substitute rotini, penne, or even whole wheat noodles if that’s what you have on hand. Just be sure to cook them al dente so they don’t get mushy.

What’s the best type Main Course

Rotisserie chicken is the ultimate time-saver here, but any cooked and shredded chicken works beautifully. Grilled, baked, or even leftover roast chicken each brings unique flavor—just make sure it’s cooked before mixing in.

Can I add extra vegetables?

Yes, and it’s a smart way to make this casserole even more nourishing! Diced mushrooms, chopped spinach, or bell peppers can all be stirred in with the peas and carrots for colorful variety and extra vitamins.

How do I make it gluten-free?

Use your favorite gluten-free noodles and swap the canned soup and crackers or breadcrumbs for certified gluten-free versions. The cheesy, creamy essence of Chicken Noodle Casserole will still shine through!

Is there a way to lighten this up?

For a lighter take, use reduced-fat sour cream, low-fat cheddar, and a lighter version of the cream soup. Skipping or using less topping is another easy tweak without sacrificing much of the original flavor.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a dish that tastes like a warm hug and brings big smiles to the table, Chicken Noodle Casserole is your answer. It’s simple to make, endlessly adaptable, and so comforting. Don’t wait to try this family classic—you may just find yourself making it again and again!

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