If you’re craving a classic comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to every bite, this Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a luscious blend of tender egg noodles, savory chicken, creamy sauce, and a delightful crunchy topping that combines textures and flavors beautifully. Whether you’re making a cozy family dinner or preparing a dish to share with friends, this casserole fills the kitchen with inviting aromas and promises a hearty, tasty meal everyone will rave about.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe lies in its simple, everyday ingredients that come together to create something extraordinary. Each component plays a vital role—from the tender chicken adding protein and heartiness to the cheddar cheese layering in rich flavor and gooeyness. Let’s look at what you’ll be gathering for this delicious dish.
- 12 ounces egg noodles: These provide the perfect soft and slightly chewy base that soaks up all the creamy goodness.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps sauté the onions for a deeply savory note.
- 1 small yellow onion, diced: Offers a sweet, aromatic foundation when cooked gently.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a warm, pungent kick that enhances every bite.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped: Your main protein source, tender and flavorful.
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup: The creamy binding agent that ensures a luscious casserole.
- ½ cup sour cream: Injects tangy creaminess for a subtle richness.
- ½ cup milk: Lightens the sauce, keeping it smooth and creamy without heaviness.
- 1½ cups frozen peas and carrots, thawed: Adds vibrant color, texture, and a mild sweetness.
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts perfectly into the mixture, giving that irresistible gooey finish.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances all the flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle spice to round out the dish.
- ½ cup crushed butter crackers (like Ritz): Creates a golden, buttery, crunchy topping.
- 1 tablespoon melted butter: Binds the cracker topping and adds extra crispiness.
How to Make Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Noodles
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Cook the egg noodles in salted boiling water until just al dente—this means they’ll hold their shape during baking without getting mushy. Drain them well and set aside, allowing them to cool slightly so they mix easily with the other ingredients.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics for Depth
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3 to 4 minutes until softened and translucent. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for one more minute. This step builds a flavorful base, infusing the casserole with savory richness before mixing everything together.
Step 3: Combine the Filling
Transfer the cooked noodles to a large mixing bowl and add shredded chicken, the sautéed onion and garlic, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, thawed peas and carrots, cheddar cheese, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors and ingredients. This creamy, cheesy filling is what makes the casserole so irresistibly comforting.
Step 4: Assemble and Top
Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. In a small bowl, combine the crushed butter crackers with the melted butter, tossing until all crumbs are coated. Sprinkle this buttery topping generously over the casserole; it will become golden and crunchy, adding texture contrast that elevates the whole dish.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the topping has turned a beautiful golden brown. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving so it can set slightly, making it easier to dish out and enjoy all those rich flavors fully melded together.
How to Serve Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes like a sprinkle of chopped parsley or green onions gives a pop of color and a fresh burst of flavor that complements the creamy, cheesy elements perfectly. You might even toss on a few extra shredded cheddar cheese bits right before serving for extra indulgence.
Side Dishes
This Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe pairs wonderfully with simple side salads or steamed green vegetables like broccoli or green beans that add brightness and balance the richness. For a heartier meal, consider buttery dinner rolls or garlic bread to soak up every bit of the creamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Dress up your casserole for special occasions by serving it in individual ramekins or skillet portions for that cozy, rustic vibe. You could also layer it in a clear glass baking dish for a visually appealing presentation, showing off all the colorful ingredients entwined in creamy goodness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover casserole in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When stored properly, the flavors will deepen, making your next meal just as enjoyable. Leftover portions can be reheated easily without losing their creamy texture.
Freezing
This dish freezes beautifully before baking. Just prep the casserole as directed, cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, bake it straight from the freezer, adding extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through and bubbly.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to preserve the crispy topping. Alternatively, microwaving works if you’re short on time, but keep a close eye to avoid drying out the creamy texture. A quick sprinkle of extra cheese on top during reheating makes it taste freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking my own?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut for this Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe, saving you time while adding deliciously seasoned meat.
Is it possible to make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute gluten-free egg noodles and gluten-free crackers for the topping to adapt the recipe for gluten sensitivities without sacrificing taste or texture.
Can I add extra vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely! Sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or even spinach work wonderfully and boost the nutritional value, adding exciting flavors and textures.
How do I prevent the casserole from becoming too watery?
Be sure not to overcook the noodles before mixing; cooking until just al dente helps absorb the creamy sauce without becoming soggy during baking.
What can I use if I don’t have cream of chicken soup?
You can make a simple homemade white sauce using butter, flour, milk, and chicken broth as a substitute. This keeps the casserole creamy and flavorful without relying on canned products.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting and satisfying about this Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe, blending familiar flavors with a touch of homemade charm. It’s a dish that invites family and friends to gather around the table and enjoy a timeless meal filled with love and deliciousness. I can’t recommend it enough—give it a try and watch it quickly become a treasured favorite in your kitchen, just like it is in mine.
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Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Nut-Free
Description
This classic Chicken Noodle Casserole is a creamy, comforting dish perfect for family dinners. Featuring tender egg noodles, shredded chicken, sautéed onions, and a cheesy, vegetable-filled sauce, it’s topped with buttery crushed crackers for a delightful crunch. Easy to prepare and freezer-friendly, this casserole combines simple ingredients to create a flavorful, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 ounces egg noodles
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1½ cups frozen peas and carrots, thawed
Dairy and Creamy Components
- 2 tablespoons butter (plus 1 tablespoon melted butter for topping)
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup milk
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
Protein
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
Topping
- ½ cup crushed butter crackers (like Ritz)
Seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook Noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook until just al dente, about 7 to 8 minutes. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked noodles, shredded chicken, sautéed onion and garlic, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, thawed peas and carrots, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
- Prepare Topping and Bake: In a small bowl, mix crushed butter crackers with 1 tablespoon of melted butter until well coated. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole. Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the topping is golden brown and crispy.
- Rest Before Serving: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes. This allows the casserole to set, making it easier to serve and enhancing the flavors.
Notes
- You can substitute rotisserie chicken for a quick and convenient option.
- Adding cooked mushrooms or sautéed bell peppers can boost vegetable content and flavor.
- This casserole freezes well before baking; cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months to enjoy later.
