Chicken Noodle Bake Recipe
If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food, Chicken Noodle Bake is about to become your new best friend. Imagine fork-tender noodles hugging gently seasoned chicken and a creamy, cheesy sauce, all baked to bubbly perfection beneath a golden crust. This dish brings together everything you love about old-school casseroles—it’s easy, satisfying, and destined to disappear quickly at family gatherings or cozy weeknight meals. Whether you’re soothing a cold night or just craving heartwarming flavors, Chicken Noodle Bake is a foolproof hit that wins over kids and adults alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Chicken Noodle Bake is in its simplicity—each ingredient serves a purpose for flavor, texture, and that craveable creamy finish. Here’s what you’ll need and why each one matters:
- Egg noodles (12 ounces): These cook up tender and hold the sauce beautifully, setting the stage for all the savory flavors.
- Butter (2 tablespoons): Adds richness to the sautéed vegetables and helps build the deep, comforting base.
- Diced onion (1 small): A subtle sweetness that infuses every bite with classic casserole flavor.
- Minced garlic (2 cloves): Brightens the dish and adds aromatic depth without overpowering.
- Cooked chicken, shredded or cubed (2 cups): Use rotisserie for convenience or any leftover chicken—this is the protein that makes it hearty.
- Cream of chicken soup (1 can, 10.5 ounces): The creamy backbone for the sauce; feel free to swap in cream of mushroom or celery if you like.
- Sour cream (1/2 cup): Adds tangy richness and makes everything luxuriously creamy without being too heavy.
- Milk (1/2 cup): Loosens up the sauce so it hugs every noodle.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 1/2 cups, divided): For gooey melt and a golden, irresistible topping.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Brings out the flavors in every ingredient.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a gentle kick and balances the creaminess.
- Dried parsley (1/2 teaspoon): A pop of green and gentle herbal lift for freshness.
- Crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs (1/2 cup, optional): If you love a crunchy topping, this finishing touch is for you.
How to Make Chicken Noodle Bake
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Give your 9×13-inch baking dish a light coat of grease—this keeps the noodles from sticking and makes serving a breeze once your Chicken Noodle Bake is hot and bubbling.
Step 2: Cook the Noodles
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the egg noodles according to the package directions, aiming for al dente. Drain well and set aside. Al dente noodles will continue to soften in the oven, so don’t overcook them at this stage!
Step 3: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Toss in the diced onion and sauté for about 4–5 minutes, until they’re soft and just starting to turn golden. Add the minced garlic and cook for one more minute—your kitchen will smell incredible at this point. That sautéed base sets the stage for the sauce to come.
Step 4: Combine the Main Ingredients
Grab a large mixing bowl and add the cooked noodles, sautéed onion and garlic, cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, and dried parsley. Stir everything together until the noodles are well coated and the mixture looks creamy and inviting.
Step 5: Assemble the Chicken Noodle Bake
Pour the creamy noodle mixture into your greased baking dish, using a spatula to spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese all over the top. If you’re craving crunch, add a layer of crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs over the cheese—this will turn golden and crisp during baking.
Step 6: Bake and Rest
Slide the dish onto the middle rack of your preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown. Let your Chicken Noodle Bake rest for about 5 minutes before serving; this little pause helps everything set up, so your slices come out perfect every time.
How to Serve Chicken Noodle Bake
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dusting of extra black pepper can bring a pop of color and a hint of freshness to every slice. If you like a little extra richness, a small dollop of sour cream or even a side of hot sauce gives each portion a personalized touch.
Side Dishes
Chicken Noodle Bake excels as the star of the meal, but it loves a crowd! Pair it with a crisp green salad tossed in a simple vinaigrette, steamed broccoli for color and crunch, or warm dinner rolls to soak up every saucy bite. If you’re feeling cozy, serve alongside roasted carrots or green beans for a classic comfort combo.
Creative Ways to Present
For dinner parties or picky eaters, bake your Chicken Noodle Bake in individual ramekins or mini casserole dishes. Not only does it look charming (hello, Instagram!), it also helps everyone feel special with their own bubbling portion. Try adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika or a spoonful of caramelized onions to the top for an elegant twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (lucky you), transfer the cooled bake into an airtight container or cover the original dish snugly with foil. Leftover Chicken Noodle Bake stores well in the fridge for up to 3–4 days, and the flavors seem to get even better overnight.
Freezing
To freeze, tightly wrap the unbaked casserole (skip the crackers/breadcrumbs until ready to bake) in both plastic wrap and foil. You can also freeze baked portions in airtight containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, and add the topping just before baking to keep it crunchy.
Reheating
Warm your Chicken Noodle Bake in a 350°F oven, covered with foil, for about 20–25 minutes, or until heated through. For single servings, a quick zap in the microwave works well—add a splash of milk and cover to keep things moist and creamy.
FAQs
Can I make Chicken Noodle Bake ahead and bake later?
Absolutely! Just assemble everything except the topping, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to a day. Add the cheese and cracker or breadcrumb topping just before baking for the best texture.
What’s the best chicken to use for this recipe?
Rotisserie chicken is the ultimate time-saver, but any cooked chicken works great—including roasted or poached breasts, thighs, or even leftover turkey after the holidays. Just shred or cube it and toss it in.
Can I add extra veggies to Chicken Noodle Bake?
Definitely! Stir in frozen peas, steamed broccoli florets, or sautéed mushrooms for a veggie-packed twist that turns the bake into a complete meal.
Is there a gluten-free option?
You can easily swap regular egg noodles for gluten-free ones and use gluten-free canned soup and crackers for the topping. Just follow the same steps and enjoy a celiac-friendly classic!
Can I use a different cheese?
Sharp cheddar is classic, but feel free to play around—try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend for a different flavor profile. Smoked gouda or a bit of Swiss also adds a gourmet touch.
Final Thoughts
If comfort food is your love language, Chicken Noodle Bake truly delivers every time—easy, creamy, satisfyingly golden, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Give this recipe a try the next time you want a cozy, fuss-free dinner, and watch it become an instant favorite at your table!
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Chicken Noodle Bake Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Chicken Noodle Bake is a comforting and creamy casserole that is perfect for a family dinner. Tender egg noodles, shredded chicken, and a creamy sauce topped with melted cheddar cheese, it’s a satisfying meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients
Egg Noodles:
- 12 ounces egg noodles
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
Optional Topping:
- 1/2 cup crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook Noodles: Cook egg noodles according to package directions until al dente, then drain.
- Prepare Sauce: In a skillet, sauté onion in butter until soft. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute. In a bowl, combine noodles, onion mixture, chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, 1 cup of cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix well.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the mixture into the baking dish. Top with remaining cheddar cheese and crushed crackers. Bake for 25–30 minutes until bubbly. Let rest before serving.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Add peas or steamed broccoli for extra vegetables.
- You can use cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup instead of cream of chicken.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of bake
- Calories: 470
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 610mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
