Chicken Noodle Casserole

When I think of comfort food, my mind immediately goes to creamy, cheesy, and carb-loaded goodness—something that wraps you in warmth and nostalgia. That’s exactly what this Chicken Noodle Casserole delivers. It’s a classic dish that blends tender egg noodles, chunks of juicy chicken, a medley of vegetables, and a creamy sauce, all baked under a buttery cracker topping. It’s the kind of meal that brings people together, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a potluck favorite.

What I love most about this recipe is how incredibly simple it is to pull together, especially when you’re short on time but still craving something hearty. It’s a fantastic way to use up leftover chicken or even rotisserie chicken, and it's a hit with both kids and adults. The crunchy topping adds just the right amount of texture, while the creamy base keeps every bite irresistibly rich and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Noodle Casserole

This dish checks all the boxes for a comforting, no-fuss meal. It’s creamy, cheesy, packed with protein and veggies, and finished with that golden cracker topping everyone fights over. Plus, it’s make-ahead and freezer-friendly, making it ideal for busy schedules. Whether you're serving a crowd or just looking for an easy dinner with leftovers, this casserole has your back.

What Kind of Noodles Should I Use?

Traditional wide egg noodles are perfect for this casserole. They hold their shape well during baking and have just the right texture to soak up the sauce without becoming mushy. If you're in a pinch, you can swap in rotini or penne, but egg noodles are the gold standard here.

Options for Substitutions

There’s plenty of flexibility in this recipe. If you don’t have cooked chicken on hand, a rotisserie chicken works beautifully. Not into peas and carrots? Try broccoli, corn, or green beans. You can also use cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup instead of cream of chicken. And for a gluten-free version, go with GF noodles and cracker crumbs. Customization is part of the charm!

Ingredients for This Chicken Noodle Casserole

• Egg Noodles – These are the backbone of the casserole, offering a soft, tender texture that holds the creamy sauce well without turning mushy.
• Cooked Chicken – Shredded or cubed, this adds the protein punch and comforting flavor. Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving option.
• Frozen Peas and Carrots – A classic vegetable mix that adds sweetness, color, and a nutritional boost.
• Cream of Chicken Soup – Provides the creamy base for the casserole. It’s rich, savory, and brings everything together.
• Sour Cream – Adds tanginess and a velvety smooth texture to balance the richness of the soup.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Melts into the sauce for extra creaminess and a bit of sharpness.
• Garlic Powder and Onion Powder – Essential spices that build flavor depth quickly.
• Salt and Pepper – Basic seasonings that enhance all the other flavors.
• Butter Crackers (like Ritz) – Crushed and mixed with butter for a crunchy, golden topping.
• Unsalted Butter – Used to bind the cracker topping and add flavor.
• Fresh Parsley (optional) – For a burst of color and a fresh herbal finish.

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Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook them just until al dente. Drain and set aside. Avoid overcooking, as the noodles will continue cooking in the oven.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until well combined into a creamy sauce.

Step 3: Add Chicken and Veggies

Fold in the cooked chicken and frozen peas and carrots into the sauce. Stir everything together so that the chicken and veggies are evenly coated in the creamy mixture.

Step 4: Combine with Noodles

Add the drained noodles to the sauce mixture and gently fold everything together. Be careful not to break the noodles. You want every strand coated and mixed well.

Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish, then pour the casserole mixture into it. Spread it out evenly with a spatula.

Step 6: Prepare the Topping

In a small bowl, mix the crushed butter crackers with melted butter. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. This will bake into a crispy, golden crust.

Step 7: Bake the Casserole

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the filling is bubbly. You can broil it for the last 2 minutes if you want a deeper golden topping.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let it sit for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.

How Long to Prepare the Chicken Noodle Casserole

Preparing this casserole is pretty straightforward and doesn’t require too much hands-on time. From start to finish, you can have it on the table in under an hour, which makes it perfect for busy weeknights.

Prep Time: It takes about 20 minutes to boil the noodles, chop or shred the chicken, mix the sauce, and assemble the dish.
Bake Time: The casserole bakes for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the filling is bubbly. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

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Tips for Perfect Chicken Noodle Casserole

• Use rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra flavor.
• Don’t overcook the noodles before baking—they’ll continue cooking in the oven.
• Let the casserole rest after baking so the sauce thickens up and it slices neatly.
• Add more cheese on top if you want a gooier, cheesier casserole.
• For extra creaminess, mix in a splash of milk or heavy cream with the sauce.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the noodles: This can lead to a mushy casserole.
• Skipping the topping: The cracker topping adds texture and flavor—don’t skip it!
• Not seasoning enough: Taste the sauce mixture before combining with noodles and adjust seasoning as needed.
• Using too much liquid: Avoid adding extra soup or sour cream unless you want a looser texture.
• Forgetting to grease the dish: Prevent sticking and make cleanup easier by greasing the baking dish first.

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What to Serve With Chicken Noodle Casserole?

1. Garlic Bread

Buttery and crispy, it’s the perfect companion to mop up all that creamy sauce.

2. Steamed Green Beans

Light and fresh, they balance the richness of the casserole.

3. Caesar Salad

Crunchy romaine, creamy dressing, and croutons add a refreshing contrast.

4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Add a caramelized, nutty veggie side for more depth and nutrition.

5. Apple Walnut Salad

Sweet and tangy with a crunch—great for cutting through the creaminess.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or warm larger amounts in the oven at 350°F until hot.

Freezer: This casserole freezes beautifully. Wrap tightly with foil and plastic wrap or store in a freezer-safe dish. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as usual, adding 10 extra minutes if cold.

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Estimated Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 portion (based on 8 servings)

• Calories: ~420
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 75mg
• Sodium: 640mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 4g

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make this ahead of time?

Assemble the casserole fully, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to cook, let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before putting it in the oven.

Can I freeze Chicken Noodle Casserole before baking?

Yes! Assemble, cover tightly, and freeze. When you're ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual, adding about 10 extra minutes to the bake time.

Can I use other types of protein?

Definitely—turkey works well, especially around the holidays. You can also use canned chicken in a pinch.

What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?

Try cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup. You can also make a homemade roux-based sauce with chicken broth and cream.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Absolutely. The creamy noodles, tender chicken, and mild veggies make it a favorite with little ones.

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Conclusion

Chicken Noodle Casserole is everything you want in a comfort food—rich, creamy, satisfying, and easy to prepare. It’s a dish that can be customized to suit your pantry and preferences, and it always delivers on flavor. Whether you're feeding a family or making freezer meals for later, this casserole is a warm hug on a plate, sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation.

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