Chicken Noodle Casserole is a classic comfort dish that brings together tender chicken, egg noodles, and a creamy sauce into one satisfying bake. This casserole is easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a family gathering. With its creamy texture, savory flavors, and crispy topping, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes
- Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (such as Ritz)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter.
Step 2: Cook the Egg Noodles
Cook the egg noodles according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, thawed peas and carrots, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.
Step 4: Add the Noodles
Add the cooked egg noodles to the mixture and stir until everything is evenly combined. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Step 5: Make the Topping
In a small bowl, mix together the crushed buttery crackers and melted butter. Sprinkle the cracker topping evenly over the casserole.
Step 6: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Cook Notes
- Chicken: You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or leftover cooked chicken. You can also substitute cooked turkey if desired.
- Vegetables: Feel free to swap out the peas and carrots for your favorite vegetables, such as broccoli, corn, or green beans.
- Topping: For a different texture, try using panko breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes instead of crackers for the topping.
Variations
1. Creamy Mushroom Chicken Casserole
Replace the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup and add 1 cup sliced mushrooms for a rich, earthy flavor.
2. Cheesy Chicken Bacon Casserole
Add 1/2 cup cooked, crumbled bacon and increase the cheddar cheese to 1 cup for a cheesy, savory twist that’s sure to please.
3. Spicy Chicken Noodle Casserole
Add 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper or 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes to the mixture for a little kick of heat.
Serving Suggestions
- With a Salad: Serve this casserole with a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal.
- Garlic Bread: Pair the casserole with garlic bread for an extra comforting touch.
- Steamed Vegetables: Add a side of steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans to add some freshness and balance to the meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make Chicken Noodle Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to 1 day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before baking as directed.
How Do I Store Leftover Casserole?
Store any leftover Chicken Noodle Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or the entire casserole in the oven.
Can I Freeze Chicken Noodle Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze this casserole. Assemble the casserole as directed, but do not bake it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
Chicken Noodle Casserole is a classic comfort food that’s creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor. It’s easy to make, perfect for feeding a crowd, and sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the comforting flavors in every bite!
Did you make this recipe? Share your experience in the comments below and let us know how it turned out!
