If you’re craving a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug from the inside out, then this Chicken and Swiss Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. Layers of tender chicken, gooey Swiss cheese, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked egg noodles all topped with a crunchy, buttery cracker crust make this casserole an irresistible family favorite. It’s simple to make but so full of flavor that every bite will feel like a special occasion, perfect for weeknights or feeding a crowd with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Chicken and Swiss Casserole Recipe shines because it uses straightforward and familiar ingredients that work in perfect harmony. Each one adds something special, from the creaminess of the sour cream to the mild nuttiness of the Swiss cheese and the satisfying crunch from the Ritz cracker topping.
- 8-oz medium egg noodles: These pasta noodles provide the perfect chewy texture and soak up the creamy sauce beautifully.
- 4 cups cooked chopped chicken: A hearty protein base that keeps the dish satisfying and delicious.
- 2 (10.5-oz) cans Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup: The creamy backbone of the casserole that adds richness and flavor.
- 1 (16-oz) container sour cream: Adds tanginess and a velvety smooth texture that balances the cheese and soup perfectly.
- ½ tsp onion powder: A subtle depth of savory flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.
- ¼ tsp garlic powder: Adds a gentle hint of garlic to awaken the taste buds.
- 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese: This cheese melts to a luscious consistency while adding a mild, nutty tang.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essentials for seasoning that bring out the flavors of all the ingredients.
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers (crushed): These buttery crackers create an irresistible crispy topping.
- ¼ cup melted butter: Binds the cracker topping together and lends a golden crunch.
- ¼ tsp garlic salt: Enhances the cracker topping with an extra burst of savory garlic flavor.
How to Make Chicken and Swiss Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF and spritzing a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. This simple step ensures your casserole won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze, setting you up for success right from the beginning.
Step 2: Cook the Egg Noodles
Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain them carefully to avoid sogginess, then set them aside. The noodles provide the perfect base to soak up all the creamy goodness without turning mushy.
Step 3: Mix the Creamy Sauce and Chicken
In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, onion powder, and garlic powder, stirring until creamy and smooth. Then fold in the shredded chicken, Swiss cheese, and cooked egg noodles. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This mixture is the soul of the Chicken and Swiss Casserole Recipe, marrying richness, protein, and cheesy goodness in every spoonful.
Step 4: Assemble in the Baking Dish
Transfer the chicken and noodle mixture to your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. This will ensure the casserole cooks uniformly and delivers that classic, comforting casserole look and taste.
Step 5: Prepare the Crunchy Topping
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, crushed Ritz crackers, and garlic salt. Sprinkle this buttery, flavorful mix generously over the top of the casserole. This topping adds a crisp contrast that makes every bite exciting and texturally satisfying.
Step 6: Bake Until Bubbly and Golden
Bake your casserole for 30 to 40 minutes until it’s bubbling hot and the cracker topping is golden brown. The oven magic melds all the flavors and textures together into one delicious, crowd-pleasing dish. After baking, a sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a fresh pop of color and brightness.
How to Serve Chicken and Swiss Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or chives brightens the casserole’s rich flavors and gives it a fresh herbal note. You can also serve it with a few dashes of cracked black pepper or a light drizzle of hot sauce if you like a little kick.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with simple green sides like a crisp garden salad or steamed green beans to balance out the richness. Roasted vegetables or a tangy coleslaw also complement its creamy texture and deepen the meal’s flavor profile.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this Chicken and Swiss Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins for a personalized touch. It also goes wonderfully topped with extra shredded Swiss cheese or even diced tomatoes before baking for added color and flavor. Serving it with warm crusty bread makes it even more of a cozy, well-rounded feast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover casserole keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When stored properly, it retains its creamy texture and crunch on top, though you might want to reheat it uncovered to keep the topping crisp.
Freezing
You can freeze this casserole before baking by assembling it in a freezer-safe container and wrapping it tightly. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking as usual, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm in a 350ºF oven for about 20 minutes or until hot and bubbly. Removing the foil during the last 5 minutes helps the topping regain its lovely crispness. You can also microwave individual portions, but the texture may soften slightly.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While Swiss cheese gives this casserole its signature nutty flavor, you can swap in Gruyere, mozzarella, or even sharp cheddar for different tastes. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change accordingly.
Is it okay to use leftover chicken?
Definitely! Using leftover cooked chicken works perfectly for this recipe and can save time. Just chop it finely and stir it in with the sauce mixture.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes, by substituting the egg noodles with a gluten-free pasta and using gluten-free cream of chicken soup and crackers, you can easily adapt this casserole to be gluten-free. Just verify all labels to be sure.
What can I use instead of Ritz crackers for the topping?
If you don’t have Ritz crackers, crushed breadcrumbs or crushed buttery crackers like Saltines work well as a substitute, maintaining that crispy topping everyone loves.
Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Absolutely! Adding steamed broccoli, peas, or chopped mushrooms can bulk up the casserole and add more nutritional value and variety to the dish without compromising the flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken and Swiss Casserole Recipe really feels like a warm kitchen hug. It’s easy to make, utterly satisfying, and perfect for feeding your loved ones something homemade and comforting. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual get-together, I hope you give this recipe a try and discover just how wonderful simple ingredients can taste when combined with a little love and care.
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Chicken and Swiss Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This comforting Chicken and Swiss Casserole combines tender egg noodles, shredded chicken, creamy soup and sour cream, melted Swiss cheese, and a crunchy buttery Ritz cracker topping. Baked to bubbly perfection, this dish makes for an easy, satisfying dinner that serves a family or group.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz medium egg noodles
- 4 cups cooked chopped chicken
- 2 (10.5-oz) cans unsalted cream of chicken soup
- 1 (16-oz) container sour cream
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
- ¼ cup melted butter
- ¼ tsp garlic salt
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook Noodles: Bring a large pot of water to a boil over high heat. Add the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the noodles and set them aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare Casserole Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, onion powder, and garlic powder. Stir in the chopped cooked chicken, shredded Swiss cheese, and cooked egg noodles. Season with salt and pepper to taste and mix thoroughly to evenly distribute all ingredients.
- Assemble Casserole: Pour the prepared chicken and noodle mixture into the greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Make Topping: In a small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers, melted butter, and garlic salt. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole for a crispy, flavorful crust.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and heated through.
- Garnish and Serve: Once baked, optionally garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and serve warm.
Notes
- Use cooked leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- For a lower sodium version, use reduced-sodium soup and adjust salt accordingly.
- Crushing the Ritz crackers can be done by placing them in a resealable bag and rolling over with a rolling pin.
- To make it gluten-free, substitute the egg noodles with gluten-free pasta and use gluten-free crackers.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 3 days.
