Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe: A Comforting Classic

If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food that’s both easy to prepare and incredibly delicious, Chicken Noodle Casserole is your answer. 

This dish brings together tender chicken, hearty noodles, creamy sauce, and a crispy topping, making it a family favorite. Whether you're preparing a cozy dinner, a potluck dish, or a make-ahead meal, this recipe is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Uses simple ingredients and minimal prep time.

• Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.

• Great for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day.

• Freezer-Friendly: Perfect for meal prepping.

• Customizable: Easily adaptable to suit your taste.

Ingredients

To make this comforting casserole, you’ll need:

For the Casserole:

• 3 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)

• 12 ounces egg noodles (cooked and drained)

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup

• 1 cup sour cream

• 1 cup milk

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (for extra flavor)

For the Topping:

• 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers (or breadcrumbs)

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 tablespoons melted butter

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.

2. Cook the Noodles

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

3. Mix the Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, thyme (if using), and paprika. Stir until well blended.

4. Assemble the Casserole

Add the cooked chicken and noodles to the sauce mixture. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

5. Prepare the Topping

In a small bowl, mix crushed Ritz crackers, grated Parmesan cheese, and melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole.

6. Bake to Perfection

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy.

7. Serve and Enjoy!

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Pair with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Options: Substitute cooked turkey, ham, or rotisserie chicken for variety.

• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cheese, sour cream, and a plant-based cream soup alternative.

• Gluten-Free: Opt for gluten-free noodles and substitute the topping with gluten-free crackers.

• Veggie Boost: Add peas, carrots, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrients.

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for some heat.

FAQs

1. Can I Make Chicken Noodle Casserole Ahead of Time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time.

2. Can I Freeze Chicken Noodle Casserole?

Absolutely! Cover the unbaked casserole tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. To bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

3. What Can I Serve With This Casserole?

This casserole pairs well with garlic bread, a green salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed broccoli.

4. How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F or microwave until warmed through.

5. Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken?

Yes! Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut and adds extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Noodle Casserole is the epitome of comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and absolutely delicious. Whether you're making it for a busy weeknight dinner or meal prepping for later, this dish is a surefire hit. Give it a try, and enjoy a warm, hearty meal that brings the whole family together!