If you’re looking for a quick, comforting dish that the whole family will enjoy, this easy Chicken Noodle Casserole recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a classic comfort food that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or even meal prepping. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a hearty, delicious casserole that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Whether you're an experienced cook or a beginner, this recipe is foolproof and packed with flavor. So, get ready to dive into this delightful Chicken Noodle Casserole recipe by following the steps below!
What is Chicken Noodle Casserole?
Chicken Noodle Casserole is a baked dish made with tender chunks of chicken, egg noodles, a creamy sauce, and often a topping of crispy breadcrumbs or cheese. It's similar to a traditional tuna noodle casserole but swaps the tuna for flavorful chicken. This dish is beloved for its simplicity, versatility, and its ability to feed a crowd. It's the ultimate comfort food—hearty, creamy, and filling. Perfect for those days when you need a cozy, home-cooked meal without a lot of effort.
Ingredients List for Chicken Noodle Casserole
To make the perfect Chicken Noodle Casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients. These are easily found in most grocery stores and may already be in your pantry.
- 2 cups of cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great!)
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup milk
- ½ cup frozen peas and carrots (optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley or fresh parsley for garnish
These ingredients will yield a creamy, cheesy casserole that’s sure to become a household favorite. Feel free to adjust any quantities or flavors to suit your preferences.
Substitutions and Variations
One of the best things about a Chicken Noodle Casserole is how customizable it is. If you’re out of a certain ingredient or want to try something new, here are a few substitutions and variations that will work well with this recipe:
- Protein: Swap out the chicken for turkey, ham, or even tuna if you're feeling adventurous. Leftover Thanksgiving turkey works great!
- Noodles: If you don’t have egg noodles on hand, you can use any type of pasta, like rotini, penne, or even elbow macaroni.
- Vegetables: Mix in any vegetables you like. Broccoli, green beans, or mushrooms are great additions. You can use fresh or frozen veggies.
- Cheese: If cheddar isn’t your favorite, try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even Swiss cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Creamy Base: Instead of using canned soups, you can make a homemade cream sauce with butter, flour, and chicken broth for a fresher taste.
- Topping: Try using French-fried onions, crushed potato chips, or panko breadcrumbs for a different texture on top.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Let’s break down how to make this easy Chicken Noodle Casserole recipe. By following these simple steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Step 1: Cook the Egg Noodles
Start by cooking the egg noodles according to the package instructions. You want to cook them until they are al dente (slightly firm), as they will continue cooking in the oven. Drain the noodles and set them aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
If you’re using cooked chicken (like a store-bought rotisserie chicken), shred or dice it into bite-sized pieces. If you don’t have pre-cooked chicken, you can quickly sauté or boil some chicken breasts until they are fully cooked and then shred them.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of chicken soup, condensed cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is well combined and smooth.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, layer the cooked egg noodles, chicken, and any vegetables you're using (like frozen peas and carrots). Pour the creamy soup mixture over the noodles and chicken, making sure everything is evenly coated.
Step 5: Add Toppings
Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers) with the melted butter. Sprinkle this buttery mixture over the cheese layer for a crispy, golden topping.
Step 6: Bake
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown. The cheese should be melted, and the edges slightly crispy.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once the casserole is done, let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and makes it easier to scoop onto plates.
How to Cook Chicken Noodle Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cooking Chicken Noodle Casserole is a breeze, and the results are so satisfying. Here's a quick step-by-step guide to make sure you get it right every time:
- Prep and Preheat: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Cook the egg noodles and set them aside.
- Shred the Chicken: If using rotisserie chicken, shred it. If cooking raw chicken, cook it thoroughly, then shred or dice it.
- Mix the Sauce: In a large bowl, whisk together the cream soups, sour cream, milk, seasonings, and half the cheese.
- Assemble the Casserole: Layer the noodles, chicken, vegetables, and creamy sauce in a baking dish.
- Top It Off: Sprinkle with cheese and a buttery breadcrumb mixture.
- Bake and Serve: Bake until bubbly and golden, then serve hot.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Noodles: Cook the noodles al dente, as they will soften further while baking.
- Not Mixing the Sauce Well: Ensure that the sauce is mixed thoroughly so every bite of casserole is evenly flavored.
- Skipping the Topping: The crunchy topping adds great texture, so don't skip this step!
- Forgetting to Grease the Pan: Make sure to grease the baking dish to prevent the casserole from sticking.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Presentation may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of casseroles, but with a few simple touches, you can make this humble dish look just as amazing as it tastes.
How to Serve Chicken Noodle Casserole:
- Scoop the casserole into bowls or onto plates using a large spoon.
- Pair it with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the meal.
- Add a slice of crusty bread on the side to soak up the creamy sauce.
Presentation Ideas for Chicken Noodle Casserole:
- Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color.
- Serve in individual ramekins for a personal touch, especially if you’re serving guests.
- Place the casserole dish on a wooden board with a side of fresh veggies for a rustic presentation.
Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe Tips
- Meal Prep: This casserole can be made ahead of time. Assemble it up to 24 hours in advance, cover it with plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap and bake as directed.
- Freezing: Chicken Noodle Casserole freezes well. Assemble it and freeze before baking. When you're ready to cook it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake.
- Double the Recipe: If you're feeding a large crowd or want leftovers, double the recipe and bake in a larger dish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
A: Yes! Use gluten-free noodles and make sure your condensed soups are gluten-free as well.
Q: How long will Chicken Noodle Casserole last in the fridge?
A: Stored in an airtight container, this casserole will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Q: Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
A: Absolutely! Fresh vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or peas can be lightly steamed or sautéed before mixing them into the casserole.
Q: Can I use leftover cooked chicken?
A: Yes! Leftover chicken works perfectly in this recipe. Just shred or dice it and follow the recipe as directed.
Q: What can I substitute for the canned soup?
A: You can make a simple homemade cream sauce using butter, flour, chicken broth, and milk to replace the canned soups.
Conclusion
This Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole is a comforting, hearty meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to feed a crowd. With its creamy, cheesy sauce and crunchy topping, it’s bound to become a family favorite. Plus, with plenty of room for customization, you can tweak the recipe to suit your tastes or use whatever ingredients you have on hand. Give this recipe a try, and you'll find yourself making it again and again!
PrintEasy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
This Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole recipe is a comforting family dinner with tender chicken, egg noodles, creamy sauce, and veggies baked to perfection. A great meal for weeknights or potlucks!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded)
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tbsp butter (melted)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the egg noodles according to package directions; drain.
- In a large bowl, mix chicken, noodles, soup, milk, veggies, and cheese.
- Pour into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Mix melted butter and breadcrumbs, then sprinkle on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for faster prep.
- Substitute mixed veggies with your preferred vegetables.
- Add garlic powder or onion powder for extra flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 720mg
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