Name: Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American

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If there was ever a dinnertime hero that could unite picky kids and hungry grownups with nothing but comfort and ease, it’s this classic Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe. With tender chicken, egg noodles, creamy sauce, melty cheese, and a topping that turns crispy and golden in the oven, this dish is basically a hug in casserole form. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight or you’re feeding a crowd, this easy recipe brings big flavors and even bigger smiles to the table every time.

Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of the Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe is just how approachable and versatile these ingredients are. Every single component adds either flavor, texture, or that irresistible creamy factor, and you likely already have most in your kitchen. Here’s what you need and why you need it:

Egg noodles: These classic noodles soak up the creamy sauce perfectly and bake up with the ideal texture—never mushy or dry.
Cooked chicken: Leftover, rotisserie, or freshly cooked chicken all work; shredding or cubing ensures every bite is hearty and satisfying.
Cream of chicken soup: This convenient staple gives the whole casserole body and extra savory flavor, holding everything together.
Sour cream: Adds a luscious, tangy richness that lightens the filling and makes every spoonful melt in your mouth (Greek yogurt is a good swap if you want it lighter).
Milk: Loosens up the filling just enough for that creamy, scoopable consistency.
Shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar brings a beautifully gooey, cheesy pull and a burst of color—don’t skimp!
Frozen peas and carrots: Convenient, colorful, and sweet, these vegetables round out each bite and make the casserole extra homey.
Garlic powder and onion powder: These seasonings lay down a savory flavor foundation that infuses the whole bake without overpowering it.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for bringing all the flavors into perfect balance—taste and adjust as you like.
Crushed butter crackers or breadcrumbs: The crunchy, buttery topping is what makes this casserole so delightfully irresistible.
Melted butter: Melds with the crumbs to lock in that crispy, golden crust on top.
Fresh parsley (optional): A sprinkle at the end really brightens up the presentation and adds a little fresh flavor pop.

How to Make Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prep the Baking Dish

Get things rolling by setting your oven to 350°F. While it’s warming up, grab a trusty 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a quick slick of nonstick cooking spray or a swipe of butter to keep sticking at bay. A little prep now guarantees an easy cleanup (and a perfect casserole release) later!

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

Bring a big pot of salted water to a boil, then cook the egg noodles until just al dente. Drain them well—nobody wants a watery casserole! These noodles should be tender but still hold their shape, as they’ll soak up lots of flavor once mixed into the casserole.

Step 3: Mix Up the Creamy Base

In your largest mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This is where you lay the flavor foundation for your Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe. It will look pale, but the smell is so enticing!

Step 4: Add Chicken, Veggies, and Cheese

Next, fold in the shredded or cubed chicken, thawed peas and carrots, and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is combined and every piece is blanketed in that dreamy sauce. This is the step where you can also toss in extras like sautéed mushrooms or broccoli if you’re customizing!

Step 5: Combine with Noodles

Tip your drained noodles into the creamy chicken mixture and gently stir everything together. Use a big spoon or spatula—just make sure the noodles and sauce are evenly distributed for maximum flavor in every serving.

Step 6: Assemble in the Baking Dish

Pour the noodle mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheese right on top for that irresistible cheesy crust you’ll look forward to.

Step 7: Add the Crunchy Topping

In a small bowl, blend the crushed butter crackers (or breadcrumbs) with the melted butter, then scatter this mixture generously over the casserole. This topper is what takes your Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe from “delicious” to “everyone wants seconds.”

Step 8: Bake Until Golden Perfection

Slide the casserole into your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is bubbly and golden brown. Take it out and let it cool for about five minutes before serving, so everything sets just enough to slice or scoop beautifully.

How to Serve Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

A simple scattering of fresh chopped parsley makes every square of casserole look vibrant and inviting. You can also try a sprinkle of cracked black pepper or even a touch of smoked paprika for color and a hint of extra flavor. Those finishing touches add a restaurant-worthy flair to your homestyle Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe.

Side Dishes

Pair your casserole with a crisp green salad (maybe with a vinaigrette or simple ranch) to balance out the richness. Steamed green beans, roasted broccoli, or even a basket of buttery garlic bread round out the meal perfectly. The key is something fresh and light on the side to keep dinner feeling bright and balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try baking the Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins or small oven-safe bowls for personalized servings. Or, serve it in wedges atop a mound of mashed potatoes for a double-comfort feast. If you want to go picnic-style, spoon chilled squares onto plates and serve with crunchy pickles and fresh fruit for an unexpected, but delightful, lunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftovers cool completely, then cover tightly with foil or transfer to airtight containers. Pop them in the fridge, and your Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe will keep perfectly for up to four days without losing its creamy magic.

Freezing

This is a freezer-friendly superstar! Assemble the casserole right up until the baking step, wrap well in plastic and foil, and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed (you might need to add a few minutes to the baking time if it’s still very cold).

Reheating

For best results, reheat the casserole in a 350°F oven, covered with foil, until warmed through (usually 20–25 minutes). If you’re just serving a single portion, a minute or two in the microwave works perfectly as well. Pop the foil off at the end of oven reheating to refresh that crispy topping!

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut and adds extra flavor. Just remove the skin and bones, shred or cube the meat, and use it as directed in the Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe.

What if I don’t have cream of chicken soup?

You can swap in cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup—both options bring a slightly different flavor profile but work just as well for binding the casserole and keeping it creamy.

Are there gluten-free options for this casserole?

Definitely. Use gluten-free egg noodles and substitute a gluten-free cream soup and cracker or breadcrumb topping. You’ll have a satisfying Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe that everyone can enjoy.

Can I add extra vegetables?

Go for it! Sautéed mushrooms, chopped broccoli, spinach, or even bell peppers all make great additions. Just be sure to cook or thaw any veggies before adding so they don’t make the casserole watery.

How can I make this casserole lighter?

Swap in Greek yogurt for the sour cream, use reduced-fat cheese, and try whole wheat noodles. You’ll keep all the flavor and coziness of a Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe with less richness.

Final Thoughts

Whenever you need a reliable, delicious, and crowd-pleasing dinner, give this Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe a try. It’s the kind of dish you’ll want to share with friends, freeze for later, and return to any night you need a bit of comfort. Go ahead, gather your ingredients and make your next family meal unforgettable!

Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe

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4.6 from 10 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Chicken Noodle Casserole recipe is a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a family dinner. Creamy and flavorful, it combines tender chicken, egg noodles, vegetables, and a cheesy topping for a crowd-pleasing meal.

Ingredients

Egg Noodles:

12 ounces

Cooked Chicken:

3 cups (shredded or cubed)

Cream of Chicken Soup:

1 can (10.5 oz)

Sour Cream:

1 cup

Milk:

1/2 cup

Shredded Cheddar Cheese:

1 ½ cups

Frozen Peas and Carrots (thawed):

1 cup

Garlic Powder:

1/2 teaspoon

Onion Powder:

1/2 teaspoon

Salt and Black Pepper:

To taste

Crushed Butter Crackers or Breadcrumbs:

1 cup

Melted Butter:

2 tablespoons

Fresh Parsley for Garnish (optional):

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Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cook the noodles: Cook the egg noodles in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the filling: In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in the cooked chicken, peas and carrots, and 1 cup of shredded cheese.
Combine and bake: Add the cooked noodles to the mixture and transfer everything to the baking dish. Top with the remaining cheese. Mix crushed crackers with melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole. Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown.
Serve: Let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.