Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe

If you're looking for a simple yet delicious meal that the whole family will love, this Chicken Noodle Casserole recipe is the perfect solution. With tender chicken, egg noodles, a creamy sauce, and a crunchy topping, this casserole hits all the comfort food notes. It’s quick to prepare, great for busy weeknights, and can be customized to suit your preferences. Ready to learn how to make this ultimate comfort food dish? Let’s dive right in!

this Recipe

What is Chicken Noodle Casserole?

Chicken Noodle Casserole is a warm and comforting baked dish made with cooked chicken, tender egg noodles, and a creamy sauce. It’s often topped with cheese or breadcrumbs for a satisfying crunchy finish. Similar to a traditional tuna noodle casserole, this dish swaps the tuna for chicken, making it a heartier and more kid-friendly meal. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or looking for a dish to take to a potluck, this casserole is the perfect choice—easy to make, crowd-pleasing, and perfect for leftovers!

Ingredients List for Chicken Noodle Casserole

Here are the essential ingredients you’ll need to make this easy and delicious Chicken Noodle Casserole:

• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great)
• 8 oz egg noodles
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• ½ cup sour cream
• ½ cup milk
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (or your favorite mixed vegetables)
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
• ½ cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

These ingredients create a rich, creamy casserole that’s packed with flavor. Feel free to make adjustments based on what you have on hand.

Substitutions and Variations

The beauty of Chicken Noodle Casserole is its versatility. Here are some easy substitutions and variations you can make to customize this dish:

• Protein: Substitute the chicken with turkey, ham, or even tuna if you want a different flavor. Leftover turkey from holidays works perfectly.
• Noodles: If you don’t have egg noodles, you can use any short pasta, like rotini, penne, or macaroni.
• Vegetables: Swap out peas and carrots for broccoli, green beans, mushrooms, or spinach. Fresh, frozen, or even canned vegetables work fine.
• Creamy Base: If you don’t want to use canned soup, you can make a simple homemade cream sauce using butter, flour, and chicken broth.
• Cheese: Switch up the cheddar for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses for a different flavor.
• Topping: Try French-fried onions, crushed potato chips, or panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs for a different crunch.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make a Chicken Noodle Casserole that your whole family will love:

Step 1: Cook the Egg Noodles

Start by cooking the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Be sure to cook them al dente, as they’ll continue cooking in the oven. Drain the noodles and set them aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

If you’re using leftover or rotisserie chicken, shred or dice it into bite-sized pieces. If you’re cooking the chicken from scratch, season it with salt and pepper, cook it through (either by boiling, baking, or sautéing), and then shred or dice.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a large bowl, mix together the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well to ensure everything is smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked egg noodles, shredded chicken, and frozen vegetables. Pour the creamy sauce over the noodle mixture and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Pour the chicken and noodle mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. Top with the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese.

Step 6: Add the Crunchy Topping

In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers) with the melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture over the casserole to give it a crispy, golden finish.

Step 7: Bake the Casserole

Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.

Step 8: Serve

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and enjoy!

How to Cook Chicken Noodle Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

To summarize, here’s a quick guide to making this Chicken Noodle Casserole:

1. Cook the noodles: Prepare your egg noodles until al dente.
2. Prepare the chicken: Shred or dice pre-cooked chicken.
3. Make the sauce: Mix soups, sour cream, milk, cheese, and seasonings.
4. Assemble the casserole: Combine noodles, chicken, vegetables, and sauce.
5. Top it off: Add cheese and a buttery breadcrumb topping.
6. Bake: Cook in the oven at 350°F for 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when making Chicken Noodle Casserole:

• Overcooking the noodles: Cook your noodles al dente so they don’t become mushy after baking.
• Not seasoning the chicken: Even though the sauce is flavorful, it’s a good idea to lightly season the chicken before adding it to the casserole for added depth of flavor.
• Skipping the topping: The crunchy topping adds texture and contrast to the creamy casserole—don’t skip it!
• Not letting it cool: Letting the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving allows the sauce to set and prevents a runny casserole.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Although casseroles are more about comfort than presentation, you can still make it look inviting!

How to Serve Chicken Noodle Casserole:

• Serve directly from the baking dish at the table for a cozy, family-style dinner.
• Pair the casserole with a side of steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or some warm dinner rolls.
• Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives to brighten up the dish and give it a fresh look.

Presentation Ideas for Chicken Noodle Casserole:

• Serve in individual ramekins for a more personal touch.
• Garnish with a light dusting of paprika or fresh herbs for color contrast.
• Place the casserole dish on a trivet with a rustic napkin for a warm, homestyle presentation.

Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Assemble the casserole and freeze it before baking. When you’re ready to cook, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then bake as directed.
• Leftovers: Leftover casserole can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days and reheated in the microwave or oven.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and make sure your soups are labeled gluten-free.

Q: Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
A: Absolutely. Lightly steam or sauté fresh vegetables before adding them to the casserole.

Q: How long does Chicken Noodle Casserole last in the fridge?
A: Store it in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Q: Can I add more cheese?
A: Of course! Feel free to add extra cheese to the sauce or even on top for an extra cheesy casserole.

Q: Can I make it without cream of mushroom soup?
A: Yes. You can substitute it with another can of cream of chicken soup, or make your own creamy sauce from scratch.

Conclusion

This Chicken Noodle Casserole recipe is the perfect comfort food that’s both easy to prepare and versatile enough for customization. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping for a busy week, this dish will hit the spot. With its creamy sauce, tender noodles, and crispy topping, it’s a meal that’s sure to satisfy. Give this recipe a try, and soon it will become one of your go-to dinners!

Print