Comforting Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe for Cozy Nights

Comfort flows through every delectable chicken noodle casserole bite, promising warmth and satisfaction for hungry souls.

Layers of creamy goodness meld together with tender egg noodles and succulent chicken pieces.

Weeknight dinners demand simple yet delicious solutions that everyone will adore.

Crispy golden breadcrumbs create a perfect crunchy topping contrasting smooth, rich interior textures.

Memories of grandmother’s kitchen emerge with each forkful of this classic dish.

Minimal ingredients combine into maximum flavor, making meal preparation a breeze for busy cooks.

Savor this comforting classic that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary dining experience you’ll absolutely love.

Chicken Noodle Casserole Ingredients Overview

• Chicken: Tender, cooked protein that provides the base for the casserole's hearty flavor.

• Egg Noodles: Classic pasta that adds a soft, comforting texture to the dish.

• Cream of Chicken Soup: Creates a rich, smooth foundation for the casserole.
• Sour Cream: Adds tangy creaminess and helps bind the ingredients together.
• Milk: Enhances the sauce's consistency and helps blend flavors.

• Cheddar Cheese: Provides a sharp, melty element that adds depth to the casserole.

• Peas and Carrots: Colorful vegetables that bring nutrition and sweetness to the dish.

• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall flavor profile.

• Breadcrumbs: Adds a crunchy, golden-brown texture to the casserole surface.
• Butter: Helps create a crispy, golden topping when melted with breadcrumbs.

Step-by-Step Chicken Noodle Casserole Instructions

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Fire up your oven to 350°F and get ready for a delicious comfort food adventure. Cook those egg noodles according to the package, then drain and set them aside.

Step 2: Mix The Creamy Filling

• Cooked chicken (shredded or chopped)
• Cream of chicken soup
• Sour cream
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Milk
• Frozen peas and carrots
• Salt
• Black pepper

Blend everything until they become best friends.

Step 3: Combine Noodles And Mixture

Fold in the cooked egg noodles, making sure every single noodle gets a delicious coating of the creamy goodness.

Step 4: Prepare The Baking Dish

Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a quick spray or butter rub to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Transfer And Top

Pour the entire mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.

Step 6: Create The Crunchy Topping

In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter until they’re perfectly combined.

Step 7: Sprinkle And Bake

Scatter the buttery breadcrumb mixture over the top of the casserole.

Slide the dish into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes.

Step 8: Golden And Bubbly Finish

Watch for a golden-brown top and bubbling edges.

Once it looks perfectly crispy, pull it out of the oven.

Step 9: Rest And Serve

Let the casserole rest for a few minutes to set, then serve up this comforting meal that’ll make everyone at the table smile.

Helpful Tips for Chicken Noodle Casserole

• Swap frozen mixed vegetables for fresh seasonal veggies to add more nutrition and color to the casserole.
• Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker preparation and enhanced flavor profile.
• Select low-fat dairy options like reduced-fat sour cream and cheese to create a lighter version of the dish.
• Add a pinch of garlic powder or dried herbs like thyme for extra depth and complexity in taste.
• Prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve for convenient meal planning.

Flavor Twists for Chicken Noodle Casserole

• Southwest Spice Sensation: Add diced green chilies, jalapeños, and taco seasoning for a zesty Mexican-inspired flavor profile.
• Mediterranean Magic: Incorporate feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and oregano for a Greek-style chicken casserole experience.
• Mushroom Lovers' Dream: Mix in sautéed mushrooms, thyme, and replace some cheddar with Swiss cheese for an earthy, rich version.
• Veggie Power Boost: Swap chicken with extra vegetables like zucchini, broccoli, and cauliflower for a hearty vegetarian alternative.

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Noodle Casserole

• Serve this golden casserole in rustic ceramic dishes that highlight its creamy texture. Pair with a crisp green salad dressed in light vinaigrette to balance the rich, hearty flavors.
• Bring the entire casserole to the table in its baking dish. Let everyone scoop their own portions, creating a warm, communal dining experience that feels like a cozy family gathering.
• Reheat individual portions in small ramekins. Top with extra cheese or fresh herbs like parsley or chives. Serve alongside roasted seasonal vegetables for an elevated lunch or dinner option.

How to Store Chicken Noodle Casserole

• Store leftover casserole in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or lid to prevent moisture loss and maintain flavor.
• Transfer cooled casserole to a freezer-safe dish. Wrap securely with aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Label with date and contents for easy tracking.
• Thaw frozen casserole overnight in the refrigerator. Warm in the oven at 350F for 20-25 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying out. Add a splash of milk if the casserole seems too dry.
• Divide casserole into individual serving containers for quick meal prep. These single-serve portions make grab-and-go lunches or convenient weeknight dinners.

FAQs

• Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! The creamy texture, mild flavors, and familiar ingredients like chicken and noodles make this casserole a hit with children. Most kids love the cheesy, comforting taste and soft consistency.

• Can I use different types of meat?

Yes, you can easily substitute chicken with turkey, rotisserie chicken, or even canned chicken. Just ensure the meat is cooked and shredded or diced before mixing into the casserole.

• How can I make this dish healthier?

Consider using low-fat cream of chicken soup, reduced-fat cheese, and adding more vegetables like broccoli or spinach. You can also use whole wheat noodles for extra nutrition.

Chicken Noodle Casserole – Why It’s So Comforting

• Simplify Weeknight Dinners: Tackle busy evenings with this one-pan wonder that combines pasta, ground beef, and creamy goodness in a single delicious casserole.
• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Packed with familiar flavors that appeal to both kids and adults, this dish guarantees clean plates and happy faces around the dinner table.
• Minimal Cleanup Champion: Streamline your kitchen routine with a recipe that uses just a skillet and baking dish, reducing washing time and making post-dinner cleanup a breeze.
• Budget-Friendly Family Feast: Create a hearty meal using affordable ingredients like ground beef, pasta, and pantry staples that stretch your grocery budget without sacrificing taste.

Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe

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4.6 from 39 reviews

• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Hearty chicken noodle casserole brings comfort to family dinners with layers of creamy goodness and nostalgic flavor. Home cooks can enjoy this classic dish that warms hearts and satisfies hunger with simple, wholesome ingredients.

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Ingredients

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• 2 cups chicken (shredded or diced)
• 1 can cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
• 8 oz egg noodles
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots (optional)
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
• 1 tbsp butter (melted)
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Warm the oven to 350F (175C) to prepare for the casserole assembly.
2. Cook egg noodles according to package directions, thoroughly draining excess water and setting aside.
3. Create a creamy mixture by combining shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, cheddar cheese, milk, peas and carrots, seasoning with salt and pepper.
4. Gently fold the cooked noodles into the mixture, ensuring even coating of all ingredients.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and carefully transfer the noodle and chicken mixture, spreading evenly.
6. Prepare the crispy topping by blending breadcrumbs with melted butter until well incorporated.
7. Distribute the buttery breadcrumb mixture uniformly across the casserole surface.
8. Slide the casserole into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, watching for a golden-brown crust and bubbling edges.
9. Remove from oven and allow the casserole to rest for 5-7 minutes, helping it set and cool slightly before serving.

Notes

• Swap chicken with tofu or plant-based protein for a vegetarian version that maintains the creamy, comforting texture.
• Use gluten-free egg noodles and breadcrumbs to transform this dish into a celiac-friendly meal without compromising flavor.
• Boost nutrition by adding extra vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to increase the veggie content and create more depth.
• For a lighter version, replace full-fat ingredients with low-fat alternatives like Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and reduced-fat cheese to cut calories while keeping the dish deliciously satisfying.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 335 kcal
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 520 mg
• Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
• Trans Fat: 0.2 g
• Carbohydrates: 27 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 23 g
• Cholesterol: 65 mg