If you’re craving a warm, comforting meal that feels like a big cozy hug, this Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining tender shredded chicken, perfectly cooked egg noodles, and a creamy, cheesy sauce dotted with peas and carrots, this casserole offers that nostalgic homestyle flavor with a golden, crispy topping that’s impossible to resist. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual family dinner, this dish is straightforward, satisfying, and sure to become one of your go-to recipes for comfort food bliss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe plays a vital role, from the creamy base to the crunchy top, creating a balanced dish that’s rich in flavor and texture without any fuss. Here’s a rundown of what you’ll gather for this delicious meal:
- 3 cups cooked egg noodles: The perfect pasta base that soaks up all those lovely flavors.
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast: Adds hearty protein and tender bites throughout.
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (thawed): Brings color and a touch of sweetness to every forkful.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into creamy, savory goodness that binds the casserole.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: The secret to a velvety, flavorful sauce base.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds tangy creaminess for depth.
- 1/2 cup milk: Helps achieve that smooth, luscious texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Offers a subtle kick that enhances the savory notes.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Brings gentle sweetness and aroma.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning all the layers perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of spice.
- 1/2 cup crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs: Creates a crunchy, golden topping that’s pure comfort.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter: Bonds the crunchy topping and adds richness.
How to Make Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by heating your oven to 375°F. This step is key to ensuring that your casserole bakes evenly, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully and the topping to turn that irresistible golden brown.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a large bowl, toss together the cooked egg noodles, shredded chicken, peas and carrots, and shredded cheddar cheese. Then, add the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything gently until it’s fully combined — this creates the creamy, savory base that carries the dish.
Step 3: Assemble in the Baking Dish
Grease your 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking, then transfer the mixture in. Spread it out evenly to ensure consistent baking and an even distribution of flavors in every bite.
Step 4: Prepare and Add the Topping
In a small bowl, mix the crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter until the crumbs are well coated. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole to add a crunchy, buttery top layer that provides wonderful texture contrast.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake the casserole for about 25 to 30 minutes or until it’s bubbling hot and the topping is a beautiful, golden brown. Let it rest for 5 minutes once you pull it from the oven—this helps the casserole set so it serves nicely without falling apart.
How to Serve Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Brighten your serving with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped chives for a pop of green and a fresh note. A few extra shreds of cheddar on top right after baking also add a wonderful cheesy finish that melts from the warmth.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or steamed green beans to provide freshness and balance out the creamy richness. For heartier meals, a side of roasted vegetables or garlic bread works beautifully too.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins for a charming presentation at dinner parties. Or spoon it over fresh greens for a twist on a warm salad. It also works great wrapped in a flaky puff pastry for a fun, handheld version.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more after a day, making leftovers a tasty treat that reheats well.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully. Assemble it, cover tightly with foil and plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until warmed through, which keeps the topping crispy. Microwaving works too for a quicker option but may soften the crunchy top.
FAQs
Can I use different types of noodles in this Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe?
Absolutely! While egg noodles are classic, you can swap in rotini, penne, or even bow ties, depending on what you have on hand. Just make sure the noodles are cooked al dente before mixing.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily substitute the chicken with additional vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach and replace the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or celery soup to keep it vegetarian.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time before baking?
Definitely. Assemble the casserole a few hours ahead or even the night before, then store it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. This saves time on busy days.
What can I add for extra flavor to the Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe?
Sautéed onions, garlic, or mushrooms are fantastic additions. You can also mix in a teaspoon of dried herbs such as thyme or parsley to boost the savory depth.
How do I make the topping extra crispy?
Using crushed buttery crackers combined with melted butter gives a beautifully crisp topping. For an extra crunch, try adding a handful of grated Parmesan or a drizzle of olive oil before baking.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe is a true classic that brings comfort, flavor, and ease to your dinner table. It’s the kind of dish that welcomes you with warm familiarity yet leaves plenty of room for your own touches. Give it a try and you might just find yourself making it again and again for family and friends who adore cozy, satisfying meals.
Print
Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This comforting Chicken Noodle Casserole combines tender shredded chicken, creamy sauce, and tender egg noodles baked to perfection with a crispy buttery cracker topping. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, this dish is kid-friendly, satisfying, and packed with classic American flavors.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked egg noodles
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
Cheese and Cream Sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Topping
- 1/2 cup crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the cooked egg noodles, shredded chicken breast, thawed peas and carrots, shredded cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined, forming the creamy casserole mixture.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread the mixed casserole ingredients evenly inside.
- Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, stir the crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter until combined. Sprinkle this evenly over the top of the casserole to create a crispy, golden topping.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the topping turns golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to settle and the dish to cool slightly for easy serving.
Notes
- You can use rotisserie chicken to save cooking time and for added flavor.
- Feel free to substitute cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup based on your preference.
- Add sautéed onions or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture variations.
