If you are craving a hearty, comforting, and utterly delicious meal, look no further than this Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe. It combines tender egg noodles with succulent shredded chicken, all drenched in a creamy, cheesy sauce that feels like a warm hug on a plate. The golden, crispy topping adds the perfect textural contrast, making every bite a delightful experience. Whether you’re feeding a busy family or preparing a cozy dinner for yourself, this dish comes together easily and promises smiles all around the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that work together to create that irresistible balance of creamy, cheesy, and slightly crunchy textures. Each component plays a vital role in making this dish a classic comfort food favorite.
- 12 oz egg noodles: These provide a soft, hearty base that soaks up all the creamy sauce beautifully.
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken: Rotisserie chicken is perfect here for convenience and juicy flavor.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: Acts as the rich and savory creamy foundation of the casserole.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds tangy creaminess that elevates the sauce’s depth.
- 1/2 cup milk: Lightens the sauce and keeps it silky smooth.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided): Cheddar brings that sharp, melty goodness essential to this classic dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: A subtle kick of flavor that warms up the whole casserole.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Provides sweet and savory undertones without overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the savory flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle bite for balance.
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (optional): Bring color, nutrients, and a touch of sweetness to the dish.
- 1/2 cup crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs: Creates a perfectly crisp, golden topping.
How to Make Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish so that your cheesy casserole doesn’t stick and the edges can crisp up nicely. This simple prep helps your final dish come out perfectly baked and ready to impress.
Step 2: Combine the Creamy Base
In a large mixing bowl, add the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, 1½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until you get a smooth, creamy blend. This mixture is the heart of your casserole, locking in flavor and moisture.
Step 3: Mix in the Main Ingredients
Next, fold the cooked egg noodles, shredded chicken, and if you’re using them, the frozen peas and carrots into your creamy base. Mix until all the noodles are thoroughly coated, and the chicken and veggies are distributed evenly. This ensures every spoonful will have a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Then sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese over the top, followed by the crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs. This topping will add a crunchy, golden crust that contrasts deliciously with the creamy interior.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Bubbling
Bake your casserole uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are bubbling and the top is a gorgeous golden brown. Allow the casserole to cool slightly out of the oven — this resting time helps it set perfectly for serving.
How to Serve Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a little fresh chopped parsley or chives on top just before serving for a pop of color and a fresh flavor lift. A few thinly sliced green onions also work amazingly to brighten up each bite. These simple touches make your cheesy chicken noodle casserole both eye-catching and inviting on the table.
Side Dishes
This casserole is hearty enough to stand alone, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed green beans offers a refreshing contrast. For extra comfort, serve alongside warm garlic bread or buttery dinner rolls — perfect for mopping up any cheesy sauce that remains on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to jazz things up for a potluck or family gathering, serve individual portions in ramekins topped with a sprinkle of paprika or a drizzle of hot sauce. You can also layer in sautéed mushrooms or spinach next time for an extra veggie boost. Presentation and little tweaks keep this Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe fresh and exciting every time you make it.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When properly covered, the flavors meld even more, making your second serving taste just as good, if not better, than day one.
Freezing
This flavorful casserole freezes beautifully. Before baking, assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, then cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, bake it straight from the freezer—just add an extra 15 to 20 minutes to the baking time.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20 minutes or until heated through. For a crispy top, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking. Microwaving works too, but baking helps retain the delightful texture this dish is known for.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of noodle?
Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional and absorb the sauce wonderfully, you can substitute with penne, rotini, or even elbow macaroni. Just be sure to cook them al dente so they don’t become mushy during baking.
Is it okay to use fresh chicken instead of rotisserie?
Yes, fresh cooked chicken breast or thighs work great. Simply cook, shred, and use them in place of the rotisserie chicken. Rotisserie just adds the convenience and a bit more depth of flavor from the seasoning.
Can I add more vegetables to this casserole?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers. Just keep in mind the moisture content of the added veggies to maintain the perfect texture of your casserole.
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
If you want to change up the flavor, you can try cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup. Homemade white sauce is an option too for a more natural approach. Just ensure it’s thick enough to keep the casserole creamy.
How can I make this recipe spicy?
Add a dash of hot sauce or some cayenne pepper into the creamy mixture for heat. You can also top with sliced jalapeños or mix in a bit of diced green chili for a smoky, spicy twist.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe is one of those quintessential comfort dishes that will quickly become a staple in your meal rotation. It’s easy to make, generously cheesy, and delightfully satisfying every time. I can’t wait for you to try it and share it with loved ones — it’s the kind of recipe that brings warmth, joy, and a little bit of magic to the dinner table.
Print
Cheesy 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
Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole is a hearty and comforting baked dish featuring tender shredded chicken, egg noodles, and a creamy cheese sauce. Enhanced with garlic and onion powder, and topped with a crispy buttery cracker crust, this casserole makes a perfect easy weeknight dinner that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz egg noodles, cooked and drained
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works well)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (optional)
Topping
- 1/2 cup crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Mix Creamy Base: In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Combine Noodles, Chicken, and Veggies: Fold the cooked and drained egg noodles, shredded chicken, and frozen peas and carrots (if using) into the creamy mixture. Mix gently until everything is evenly incorporated.
- Assemble Casserole: Pour the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly with a spatula.
- Add Cheese and Topping: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the casserole, then evenly top with the crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs for a crunchy finish.
- Bake: Place the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the topping has turned a golden brown color.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving to let it set, ensuring easy servings and enhanced flavors.
Notes
- You can substitute cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup for the cream of chicken soup to change the flavor profile.
- Add a dash of hot sauce to the mixture for a spicy kick.
- For additional vegetables and nutrients, stir in sautéed mushrooms or fresh spinach before baking.
