If you’re craving a warm, comforting dish that brings the whole family to the table with smiles, this Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked egg noodles, and a creamy, cheesy sauce that feels like a cozy hug on a plate. Whether you’re cooking after a busy day or feeding a hungry crowd, this casserole delivers that nostalgic taste of home-cooked goodness with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, accessible ingredients come together to create layers of texture, flavor, and color in this dish. Each one plays a crucial role in making this casserole irresistible, from the creamy base that binds everything to the crunchy topping that adds the perfect finishing touch.
- 3 cups cooked egg noodles: These soft, pillowy noodles form the hearty base of the casserole.
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or chopped): Adds protein and satisfying meaty goodness.
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of chicken soup: Provides a rich, creamy sauce that keeps everything moist.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Brings tanginess and extra creaminess to the mix.
- 1/2 cup milk: Thins the sauce for perfect consistency.
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (thawed): Offers a pop of color and a gentle sweetness.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into gooey, savory goodness throughout the casserole.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Layers in subtle warmth and depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the savory flavor profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances and elevates the overall taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild kick to brighten the dish.
- 1/2 cup crushed butter crackers or breadcrumbs (for topping): Creates a crunchy, golden crust that contrasts the creamy filling.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter: Binds the topping and adds rich flavor.
How to Make Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Combine
Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C), setting the stage for a bubbly, golden casserole. In a large bowl, mix together cooked egg noodles, chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, peas and carrots, cheddar cheese, and seasonings until each ingredient is perfectly coated. This step melds all the flavors into one deliciously harmonious filling.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure your casserole won’t stick and spreads evenly. Transfer your combined mixture into the dish and smooth it out so every bite will have that perfect balance of creamy and chunky textures.
Step 3: Add Crunchy Topping
In a small bowl, combine crushed butter crackers (or breadcrumbs) with melted butter for a rich, crispy topping. Sprinkle this evenly over your casserole, giving it that signature crunchy finish that makes each forkful exciting.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake the casserole uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes until it’s bubbling and the topping is golden brown. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving—this pause helps everything set perfectly and makes serving easier and less messy.
How to Serve Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives on top can brighten this casserole’s creamy richness, giving it a fresh, vibrant finish. A sprinkle of extra cheddar cheese right after baking can also elevate its cheesy appeal.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads or lightly steamed vegetables, balancing the richness with some fresh crunch. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls also complement the creamy base, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving this at a gathering, consider individual ramekins for a personalized touch that feels special and cozy. Layer in some caramelized onions or swap peas and carrots for roasted broccoli for a twist on the classic Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover your casserole tightly and store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making for delicious next-day meals.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully. Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover well with foil and plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as usual to enjoy a comforting meal anytime.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to maintain the crispy topping and creamy interior. Microwaving works in a pinch, but may soften the crunchy crust.
FAQs
Can I use different types of noodles in this casserole?
Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional and give that classic texture, you can swap in penne, rotini, or even small shells depending on what you have on hand or prefer.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, simply substitute the sour cream and milk with dairy-free alternatives, and use a dairy-free cheese to keep that creamy, rich texture without dairy.
How can I make this casserole healthier?
Try using whole wheat noodles, lean chicken breast, low-fat sour cream, and adding extra vegetables like spinach or zucchini to boost the nutritional value without sacrificing flavor.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance for a potluck?
Definitely! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, then refrigerate it covered for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes serving a breeze when you arrive.
What can I do to make the topping extra crispy?
For an ultra-crispy topping, sprinkle the breadcrumb-butter mixture halfway through baking, or broil the casserole for the last 2 to 3 minutes while keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe is a timeless classic for a reason—it’s comforting, simple to make, and endlessly satisfying. Whether it becomes a weekly go-to or a special weekend treat, it’s a dish that brings warmth and joy every time it hits your table. Give it a try and discover your new favorite cozy dinner.
Print
Easy 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
This Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole is a comforting, creamy dish perfect for a family-friendly weeknight dinner. Made with tender cooked chicken, egg noodles, peas and carrots, and a cheesy, creamy sauce, it’s topped with a buttery, crunchy cracker crust and baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked egg noodles
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Topping
- 1/2 cup crushed butter crackers or breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare it for baking the casserole.
- Mix casserole ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked egg noodles, shredded or chopped chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, thawed peas and carrots, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything until well mixed and evenly coated.
- Prepare baking dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Transfer the noodle and chicken mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly for uniform cooking.
- Make topping: In a small bowl, mix the crushed butter crackers or breadcrumbs with the melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated.
- Add topping and bake: Sprinkle the buttery crumb topping evenly over the casserole. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
- Rest and serve: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking to set before serving. Enjoy your warm, creamy chicken noodle casserole!
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken to speed up preparation time.
- Substitute peas and carrots with mixed vegetables or broccoli for variety.
- For an extra crispy topping, broil the casserole for the last 2–3 minutes of baking.
