Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe

Few meals bring comfort like a creamy, hearty Chicken Noodle Casserole. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or potlucks, combining tender chicken, al dente egg noodles, a creamy sauce, and a cheesy, golden topping. Whether you're looking for a quick and delicious dinner option or something to prepare ahead, this recipe will become a household favorite. Keep reading for the full recipe, step-by-step instructions, substitutions, and tips to make your Chicken Noodle Casserole extra special!

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What Is Chicken Noodle Casserole?

Chicken Noodle Casserole is a classic American dish that features cooked chicken, egg noodles, vegetables, and a creamy sauce, all baked to perfection with a golden cheese topping. This comforting casserole brings together all the best elements of chicken soup but in a heartier, more satisfying baked form. It's simple to prepare, budget-friendly, and a great way to feed a hungry family or a large group.

Ingredients List for Chicken Noodle Casserole

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious and comforting casserole:

• 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced, rotisserie chicken works great)
• 8 oz egg noodles (about 4 cups cooked)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom for variation)
• ½ cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
• ½ cup milk
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (thawed, or other mixed vegetables)
• ½ cup onion (finely diced)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for a crunchy topping)
• 2 tablespoon butter (melted, for mixing with breadcrumbs)
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

These ingredients are simple and easily customizable, making the recipe adaptable to what you have on hand or dietary preferences.

Substitutions and Variations

Chicken Noodle Casserole is highly versatile and can be customized in many ways. Here are a few great substitution ideas:

• Chicken substitutions: Use leftover turkey, rotisserie chicken, or canned chicken. For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with cooked chickpeas, tofu, or more vegetables.
• Noodle alternatives: Egg noodles are traditional, but you can use any pasta like penne, rotini, or gluten-free noodles.
• Vegetable swaps: Swap out peas and carrots for other vegetables like broccoli, green beans, mushrooms, or spinach.
• Cream soup alternatives: If you prefer not to use canned soup, you can make a quick homemade sauce by combining 1 tablespoon of butter with 1 tablespoon of flour, cooking until bubbly, then whisking in 1 cup of chicken broth and ½ cup of milk.
• Cheese options: Try different cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend for a new twist.
• Low-carb option: Skip the noodles and use cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles for a low-carb version.

These variations make the casserole highly adaptable and can suit different tastes, preferences, or pantry availability.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s walk through the step-by-step instructions to make a delicious Chicken Noodle Casserole from scratch.

Step 1: Cook the Egg Noodles

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook them according to the package instructions until they are al dente (typically about 6-8 minutes). Drain the noodles and set them aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken (if not using pre-cooked chicken)

If you are using uncooked chicken, you can either bake, boil, or sauté it until fully cooked. Once cooked, shred or dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken will save time!

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. This will be the creamy base that holds the casserole together.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked egg noodles, shredded chicken, thawed peas and carrots, diced onion, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the bowl with the creamy sauce. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray. Pour the chicken and noodle mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Breadcrumb Topping

Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. For a crunchy topping, mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter in a small bowl and sprinkle that over the cheese.

Step 7: Bake

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired, and serve hot!

How to Cook Chicken Noodle Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a quick recap of the key steps:

1. Cook the egg noodles until al dente, and drain.
2. Cook the chicken (if needed), then shred or dice.
3. Mix the sauce: Combine cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, and seasonings.
4. Combine noodles, chicken, vegetables, and cheese with the sauce.
5. Transfer to a baking dish and top with extra cheese and breadcrumbs.
6. Bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
7. Garnish and serve with fresh parsley.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Chicken Noodle Casserole turns out perfect every time, avoid these common mistakes:

• Overcooking the noodles: Egg noodles can get mushy if overcooked. Cook them just until al dente, as they will continue cooking in the oven.
• Not draining excess liquid from vegetables: If you’re using frozen vegetables, make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.
• Too much liquid in the sauce: Avoid adding too much milk or broth to the sauce, or the casserole may turn out soupy rather than creamy.
• Skipping the cheese topping: The extra layer of cheese on top adds flavor and helps the casserole brown beautifully.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Chicken Noodle Casserole is a family-style dish, but there are ways to elevate the presentation and make it even more appetizing.

How to Serve Chicken Noodle Casserole

Serve the casserole hot, directly from the baking dish, for a rustic and homey feel. Pair it with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. A slice of garlic bread or dinner rolls would also complement this casserole beautifully.

Presentation Ideas for Chicken Noodle Casserole

• Garnish with herbs: Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley, thyme, or chives on top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Serve in individual portions: For a neater presentation, scoop the casserole into individual servings and plate with a side of salad or veggies.
• Add a side: Serve with a side of garlic bread, crusty rolls, or a vibrant salad to balance out the richness of the casserole.

Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe Tips

Here are some tips to ensure your Chicken Noodle Casserole turns out delicious every time:

• Make it ahead: You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, just pop it in the oven and add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time.
• Freeze for later: This casserole freezes well. To freeze, prepare the casserole but don’t bake it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
• Add more veggies: You can easily sneak in more vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for added nutrition.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use canned chicken for Chicken Noodle Casserole?
Yes, canned chicken can be used in a pinch, though freshly cooked or rotisserie chicken will give the best flavor and texture.

2. How long does Chicken Noodle Casserole last in the fridge?
This casserole will keep for 3-4 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

3. Can I freeze Chicken Noodle Casserole?
Absolutely! You can freeze it before or after baking. If freezing after baking, let the casserole cool completely, then wrap it tightly before freezing.

4. What type of cheese works best in Chicken Noodle Casserole?
Cheddar cheese is a classic choice, but mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses can be used for different flavor profiles.

5. How do I reheat Chicken Noodle Casserole?
Reheat individual servings in the microwave or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.

Conclusion

There you have it—an easy and comforting Chicken Noodle Casserole recipe that’s perfect for any night of the week! With tender chicken, creamy sauce, and a golden cheese topping, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re making it ahead, freezing it for later, or serving it fresh from the oven, it’s a versatile and satisfying meal that everyone will love.

So why wait? Gather your ingredients and give this delicious Chicken Noodle Casserole a try tonight!

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