Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
When you need a cozy, crowd-pleasing meal that comes together in a snap, Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole is the ticket. It combines the creamy nostalgic flavors of a classic chicken noodle soup with the heartiness of a baked casserole, all tucked under a buttery, crunchy cracker topping. There’s something magical about how it brings smiles to the dinner table—especially since it’s a recipe anyone can throw together, even on the busiest weeknights.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole is as easy as it gets—every component plays a delicious role, from the creamy base to the golden, cheesy finish. Here’s what you’ll need and why each matters:
- Egg noodles: These provide tender bite and soak up all the tasty sauce, setting the stage for that classic casserole texture.
- Cooked chicken breast (shredded): Rotisserie or leftover cooked chicken keeps prep super simple and adds loads of protein.
- Cream of chicken soup: The backbone of the creamy sauce, it infuses every layer with rich, savory flavor.
- Sour cream: For tang and body, sour cream brings a luscious creaminess that keeps the casserole from ever feeling dry.
- Frozen peas and carrots (thawed): These colorful veggies add pops of sweetness and crunch, making the dish feel hearty and balanced.
- Cheddar cheese (shredded): Melty, sharp cheddar melts into the casserole, delivering gooey, cheesy goodness in every bite.
- Garlic powder: A dash amps up the savory notes without overpowering the delicate chicken flavor.
- Onion powder: This brings subtle depth and warmth to round out the casserole’s cozy flavors.
- Salt: The essential seasoning — just enough to enhance everything without going overboard.
- Black pepper: A little kick of pepper perks up the casserole with gentle spice.
- Crushed buttery crackers: This is your secret weapon for a crispy, irresistible crust on top.
- Melted butter: When mixed into the crackers, it transforms the topping into a golden, craveable finish.
How to Make Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole
Step 1: Get Your Oven and Baking Dish Ready
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. That quick prep ensures your casserole won’t stick and will come out beautifully every time.
Step 2: Cook the Egg Noodles
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the egg noodles until just al dente, following the package instructions closely. Drain them well—nobody likes a soggy casserole! The noodles will finish cooking in the oven, soaking up all the wonderful flavors.
Step 3: Mix Up the Creamy Filling
In a spacious mixing bowl, stir together your cooled noodles, shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, peas and carrots, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything until it’s evenly combined and looks colorful and creamy—trust me, sneaking a little taste here is totally worth it.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Spoon your noodle-chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out so it’s smooth and even. Even coverage means every portion will have plenty of sauce, chicken, and veggies.
Step 5: Add the Buttery Cracker Topping
Mix the crushed buttery crackers and melted butter in a small bowl until the crumbs are moistened and clump together a bit. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the casserole. This will bake into a golden, crisp topping that everyone will fight over!
Step 6: Bake and Serve
Pop the dish in the oven, uncovered, and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’re watching for a hot, bubbling center and a perfectly browned, crunchy topping. Serve it warm so you get the full experience of creamy noodles and crispy crust in every forkful.
How to Serve Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole
Garnishes
Brighten up each plate by sprinkling on some fresh chopped parsley or snipped chives just before serving. A touch of greenery adds color and a light, herbal lift that pairs beautifully with the rich casserole base.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad (think a simple vinaigrette to balance the creamy casserole) or lightly steamed broccoli for extra color. Warm dinner rolls are also fantastic to scoop up every last bit of sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, spoon the Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole into individual ramekins before baking for personalized portions—great for family nights or entertaining. Or, serve scoops atop a bed of buttery rice or alongside roasted vegetables for an extra-hearty meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, pop any leftover casserole into an airtight container and refrigerate. It’ll keep well for up to 3 days, making it a star performer for meal prep or next-day lunches.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole! Assemble it fully (stop just before baking), wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking as usual for an effortless make-ahead meal.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the casserole loosely with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through (about 20 minutes). For a crispier topping, remove the foil for the last few minutes. Individual portions can also be microwaved for a speedy lunch.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While egg noodles create that classic texture, rotini, penne, or even fusilli will work well—just avoid overcooking since they’ll finish in the oven.
Is it possible to use other vegetables?
Definitely. Sub in corn, green beans, or diced bell pepper to fit what your family likes or what’s in your freezer—you really can’t go wrong with extra veggies!
Can I make Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole gluten-free?
Yes, swap in gluten-free noodles and gluten-free cream of chicken soup, and use a gluten-free cracker for the topping. It’s just as comforting without compromising taste or texture.
What’s the best way to add more flavor?
Try stirring in a handful of cooked, crumbled bacon, a spoonful of Dijon mustard, or some sautéed mushrooms before baking for an extra flavor boost.
Will the casserole dry out if reheated?
If you’re concerned about dryness, add a splash of chicken broth or milk before reheating. Covering with foil while reheating also helps keep it moist and delicious.
Final Thoughts
Give Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole a try—it’s the comforting, no-fuss dinner that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds. From make-ahead convenience to heartwarming flavors, this recipe is destined to become a go-to in your kitchen. Enjoy every creamy, crunchy bite!
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Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole is a comforting and delicious dish that is perfect for a cozy family dinner. Creamy and satisfying, this casserole is a great way to use up leftover chicken and enjoy a hearty meal.
Ingredients
Egg Noodles:
12 ounces
Cooked Chicken Breast:
2 cups shredded
Cream of Chicken Soup:
1 can (10.5 ounces)
Sour Cream:
1 cup
Frozen Peas and Carrots:
1 cup thawed
Cheddar Cheese:
1 cup shredded
Garlic Powder:
1 teaspoon
Onion Powder:
1/2 teaspoon
Salt:
1/2 teaspoon
Black Pepper:
1/4 teaspoon
Buttery Crackers:
1 cup crushed
Butter:
2 tablespoons melted
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the noodles: Cook the egg noodles in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain well.
- Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine noodles, chicken, soup, sour cream, peas, carrots, cheese, and seasonings. Mix well.
- Transfer to dish: Transfer mixture to baking dish.
- Add topping: Mix crushed crackers with butter, sprinkle over the casserole.
- Bake: Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Serve warm.
Notes
- You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- For extra flavor, add cooked bacon or sautéed mushrooms.
- Casserole can be assembled ahead and refrigerated up to 24 hours before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 820 mg
- Fat: 23 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 24 g
- Cholesterol: 105 mg
