If you’re craving that perfect cozy dinner that feels like a warm hug, look no further than this Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe. It’s a delicious blend of tender egg noodles, shredded chicken, and a luscious cheesy sauce that bakes to bubbly, golden perfection. Every bite delivers homey comfort with a touch of rich creaminess, making it one of those dishes you’ll want to keep on your regular dinner rotation. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a laid-back weekend meal, this casserole brings ease and flavor right to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward and simple, each chosen to bring texture, flavor, and color that dazzlingly complement each other. From tender noodles to cheesy richness and a crispy buttery topping, this combo is a win every time.
- 12 oz egg noodles: The perfect sturdy pasta to soak up all the creamy sauce without turning mushy.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: Tender protein that makes the casserole hearty and satisfying.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: Adds creaminess and a savory base for the sauce.
- 1 cup sour cream: Gives a tangy richness that balances the savory flavors beautifully.
- 1 cup milk: Keeps the casserole moist and smooth in texture.
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided: Melty, sharp, and perfect for that cheesy goodness inside and on top.
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed: Adds a pop of color and a hint of natural sweetness.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: For a subtle garlicky depth.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: Rounds out the savory base flavors.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances and balances all the ingredients.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of warmth and bite.
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs: Creates that irresistible crispy topping.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter: Ensures the topping browns beautifully and tastes rich.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Mixture
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine the cooked egg noodles, shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and milk. Mixing these creamy, comforting ingredients together forms the delicious base of your casserole.
Step 2: Add Cheese, Veggies, and Seasonings
Next, stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, thawed peas and carrots, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. These add layers of flavor and a balanced texture, with the veggies providing a lovely color contrast.
Step 3: Transfer to Baking Dish
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread your mixture evenly within it. This ensures even cooking and that every scoop will be packed with creamy, cheesy goodness.
Step 4: Prepare and Add the Topping
In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with the melted butter until well coated. Sprinkle this crunchy mixture evenly over the casserole, then top it with the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese, setting the stage for a golden, bubbly crust.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place your casserole in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until it’s bubbling and the buttery topping turns a beautiful golden brown. Once out of the oven, let it cool for about 5 minutes to set before serving.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal note that contrasts wonderfully with the casserole’s rich creaminess. For a little extra zing, a dash of smoked paprika can ignite subtle warmth.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs marvelously with crisp green salads tossed in vinaigrettes to cut through the richness. Steamed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts add needed crunch and a healthy touch to round out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve individual portions in cute ramekins for a charming presentation or scoop the casserole into warm bread bowls to impress your guests with a cozy, rustic twist. You can even top each serving with a handful of crispy fried onions for added texture and flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It reheats beautifully and retains its creamy texture, making it an excellent option for next-day meals.
Freezing
For longer storage, prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, bake directly from frozen, just adding a little extra time to ensure it’s heated through and bubbly.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and the topping regains its crispness—about 15 to 20 minutes—or microwave individual portions for convenience, though you may lose some of the crispy topping texture.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this casserole?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that adds great flavor and tender texture, making the Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe even easier to prepare.
Is there a substitute for the cream of chicken soup?
Yes, you can swap the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or a homemade white sauce to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Each option still keeps the casserole wonderfully creamy.
Can I make this vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, tofu, or a medley of your favorite veggies, and use a vegetarian cream soup alternative.
How can I add extra flavor to this dish?
Adding a pinch of paprika, Italian seasoning, or a dash of hot sauce can give the casserole a tasty boost. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can also elevate the flavors pleasantly.
What can I use for the topping if I don’t have crackers or breadcrumbs?
Crushed cornflakes, panko, or even crushed potato chips can create a crunchy, buttery topping that adds a delightful texture contrast to the creamy casserole.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe is such a heartwarming dish that brings comfort, ease, and crowd-pleasing flavors to your table. Once you try this recipe, it’s bound to become one of your favorite go-to meals for family dinners, potlucks, or any day you need a little cozy nostalgia on a plate. So roll up your sleeves and enjoy the comforting magic of this classic casserole!
Print
Creamy 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
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
This Chicken Noodle Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting baked pasta dish perfect for a hearty family dinner. Featuring tender shredded chicken, egg noodles, and a flavorful mix of cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and cheddar cheese, it’s topped with a buttery cracker crust for a delightful crunch.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz egg noodles, cooked and drained
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup milk
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Topping
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the cooked egg noodles, shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, thawed peas and carrots, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Transfer the mixture into the dish and spread it evenly.
- Make Topping: In a small bowl, combine the crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter until the mixture is evenly coated.
- Add Topping and Cheese: Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the casserole, then top it with the remaining ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set properly.
Notes
- Rotisserie chicken is a convenient option that saves time and adds flavor.
- You can substitute cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or homemade white sauce for a different taste.
- Add a pinch of paprika or Italian seasoning to the mixture for extra depth of flavor.
