Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
If comfort food had a mascot, I’m convinced it would be Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole. This crowd-pleasing classic is the very definition of cozy: tender noodles tangled with juicy chicken, all wrapped up in a rich, creamy sauce with hints of cheese and veggies, then crowned with a buttery, crunchy topping. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or making memories around the dinner table, this casserole’s simple magic brings everyone together. The best part? It’s fuss-free and easy, perfect for busy nights or sharing at potlucks. Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole is ready to become your new go-to for warmth and flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple pantry ingredients are the backbone of this dish, and each plays a special role—whether it’s contributing creaminess, chew, or a pop of color and freshness. Don’t skip any little detail—these touches are what take your Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole from good to irresistible!
- Wide egg noodles: Their gentle curves and tender bite perfectly cradle the creamy sauce and chicken in every mouthful.
- Cooked chicken breast, shredded: Using leftover or rotisserie chicken makes prep a breeze, giving you juicy protein with little effort.
- Cream of chicken soup: This classic shortcut is a must for velvety texture and full, savory flavor.
- Cream of mushroom soup: Adds depth and a subtle earthiness to the casserole’s rich sauce.
- Sour cream: A touch of tang rounds out the flavors and makes the sauce extra luscious.
- Frozen peas and carrots, thawed: A colorful mix that brings sweetness, color, and familiar comfort to every bite.
- Chopped onion: Sautéed or raw, this adds subtle flavor and texture throughout.
- Garlic powder: A trusty staple for gentle garlic warmth without overpowering the dish.
- Onion powder: Enhances the aromatic, savory base and deepens flavor.
- Salt and black pepper: Classic seasoning duo that lets the other flavors really shine.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully into gooey, toasty perfection as the casserole bakes.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a nutty, umami kick that elevates the cheesy topping.
- Buttered breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers: This crispy, buttery topping is the crunch you never knew you needed—don’t skimp!
How to Make Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Start off by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), which is the ideal temperature for bubbling, creamy goodness to develop without scorching your toppings. While it heats, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish—this will keep your casserole from sticking and make for easy serving at the end.
Step 2: Mix Up the Creamy Base
Grab your largest mixing bowl, because this is where the magic happens! Add your cooked egg noodles, tender shredded chicken, both cans of creamy soup, and sour cream. Toss in those peas and carrots for color, and don’t forget the chopped onion, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s evenly coated and you can already smell the comfort in the air.
Step 3: Assemble in the Baking Dish
Pour your creamy mixture into your prepared baking dish, smoothing it out into an even layer. This step is where you shape your casserole for ideal bubbly, cheesy oven action—try to distribute things as evenly as possible for the perfect bite every time.
Step 4: Cheese It Up
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and freshly grated Parmesan right over the surface. Let it rain cheese! This duo delivers that golden top and a burst of flavor in every forkful, especially as it melts and mingles with the creamy filling underneath.
Step 5: Add the Crunchy Topping
In a small bowl, take your buttered breadcrumbs (or crushed Ritz crackers if you’re feeling nostalgic) and mix them until evenly coated in butter. Sprinkle this mixture over the cheeses—it’ll transform into a delightfully crisp, golden crust as the Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole bakes.
Step 6: Bake
Slide your casserole into the oven and bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes. You’re looking for a hot, bubbly middle and a topping that’s turning irresistibly golden brown. For an extra-crispy finish, broil it for the last couple of minutes—just keep a close eye so it doesn’t burn!
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Let your Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole rest for 5 minutes after taking it out of the oven. This quick pause gives the sauce time to thicken slightly, so you can cut tidy squares that hold their shape and scoop up every creamy bite.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole
Garnishes
Bring even more personality to your casserole with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley, thinly sliced green onions, or just a dash of fresh cracked black pepper. These final flourishes not only add color but a pop of freshness that wakes up the rich, creamy flavors.
Side Dishes
The comforting richness of Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole pairs well with crisp green salads or lightly steamed broccoli for balance. Some folks love serving it with classic dinner rolls or buttery garlic bread—perfect for soaking up every last bite of sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve individual portions in small ramekins for a dinner party, or make mini casseroles for picnics and potlucks. You can even scoop it into hollowed bread bowls for a fun, portable twist—who could resist a creamy-filled edible bowl?
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole will keep beautifully in the fridge for up to three days. Simply cover your baking dish with foil or transfer portions to airtight containers to keep everything tasting as fresh as possible.
Freezing
If you want to prep this casserole in advance, assemble it right up to the topping, cover tightly, and stash it in the freezer for up to two months. For best results, let it thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as instructed.
Reheating
To reheat, simply pop the casserole (covered with foil to prevent drying out) into a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through. For single servings, the microwave works in a pinch—just add a splash of milk to keep it creamy. A few extra breadcrumbs or crackers sprinkled on top can revive the crunch if you’d like.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken in this recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut. Its flavorful, juicy texture blends remarkably well with the creamy sauce and saves you major prep time on busy nights.
What other vegetables can I add?
This casserole is versatile—try adding sautéed mushrooms, chopped broccoli, bell peppers, or even a handful of corn for another layer of color and taste. Just be sure extra veggies are cooked or thawed before stirring them in.
Is there a way to make this lighter?
For a lighter version, swap in reduced-fat soups and sour cream, or use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. You could also choose whole wheat egg noodles and cut back slightly on the cheese if you wish.
How can I prevent the noodles from getting mushy?
Cook your egg noodles until just al dente—they’ll finish softening in the oven as the Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole bakes. Avoid overcooking them beforehand for the best bite.
Can I prep Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole without the crunchy topping, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Add the topping right before baking so it stays crisp and delicious.
Final Thoughts
Once you’ve tried this Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole, you’ll understand why it’s a favorite for so many families (mine included!). It’s simple, reliable, and seriously satisfying—perfect for any occasion where you want to share warmth, flavor, and maybe a second helping. Give this recipe a try, and watch it become a cherished staple at your table!
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Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole. Loaded with tender chicken, hearty egg noodles, and a creamy sauce, this easy-to-make dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner.
Ingredients
Main Casserole:
- 12 ounces wide egg noodles, cooked and drained
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Topping:
- 1 cup buttered breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Mix ingredients: In a large bowl, combine noodles, chicken, soups, sour cream, vegetables, seasonings. Transfer to baking dish.
- Add cheese: Sprinkle cheddar and Parmesan over the casserole.
- Top with breadcrumbs: Mix breadcrumbs or crackers, sprinkle over the cheese.
- Bake: Bake for 30–35 minutes until bubbly and golden. Rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Leftover rotisserie chicken works well
- Use cream of celery soup for a lighter taste
- Customize with additional veggies like mushrooms, broccoli, or corn
- For a crispy topping, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 510
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 980 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 29 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
