If you have been searching for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dinner that comes together quickly and satisfies every time, this Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. Creamy, cheesy, with tender chicken and colorful vegetables nestled in soft egg noodles, this dish feels like a warm hug in every bite. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that strikes the ideal balance between hearty and effortless, promising filling servings and happy smiles around the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients that come together beautifully to create layers of flavor and comforting textures. Each item plays an essential role—whether it’s the creamy base from sour cream and soup, the savory cheese for richness, or the peas and carrots adding a pop of color and freshness.
- 3 cups cooked egg noodles: Use tender noodles that hold the sauce well without turning mushy.
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken: Perfect for leftover chicken or quick rotisserie chicken to save time.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: Adds creaminess and depth to the casserole’s base.
- 1 cup sour cream: Brings tang and smooth texture to the mixture.
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed: Adds color, sweetness, and a bit of crunch contrast.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: For sharp, melty goodness throughout the dish.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Enhances savory flavors with a nutty finish.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Boosts aroma and subtle spice.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Gives mild sweetness and depth.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential to balance and bring out all the flavors.
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (optional topping): Adds a crispy, golden crust when paired with butter.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional topping): Helps create a perfectly golden and crunchy topping.
How to Make Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure your casserole doesn’t stick and will come out cleanly once baked. This simple first step sets you up for an easy cleanup and perfect presentation.
Step 2: Mix the Main Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine your cooked egg noodles, shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and thawed peas and carrots. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese, then sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed and evenly coated in that creamy, cheesy sauce that’s the hallmark of this casserole.
Step 3: Spread the Mixture in Your Dish
Evenly spread your combined mixture into the prepared baking dish, making sure to distribute ingredients uniformly. This ensures every serving will deliver a perfect bite with chicken, noodles, and veggies in every forkful.
Step 4: Add the Crunchy Topping (Optional)
If you love a crunchy topping, mix crushed buttery crackers with melted butter. Sprinkle this golden mixture over the top of your casserole for that irresistible crispy layer. Even without the topping, this casserole shines, but the contrast of crunchy and creamy is truly next level.
Step 5: Bake Your Casserole
Bake your casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. You’re looking for the dish to be hot and bubbly with a golden crust forming on top. The aroma that fills your kitchen during this time is one of pure comfort food magic.
Step 6: Let It Rest and Serve
Once out of the oven, give your casserole 5 minutes to rest. This short wait allows the filling to set slightly, making it easier to serve and letting those flavors meld even more beautifully.
How to Serve Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a pinch of cracked black pepper can brighten the rich flavors and add a lovely pop of green that is inviting on the eyes and palate. A light drizzle of extra sour cream or a handful of shredded cheese on top right before serving can also take it up a notch.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed simply in lemon vinaigrette or a side of steamed broccoli for extra veggies. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are also great to have on the table for soaking up any creamy goodness left on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family-style feast, serve the casserole straight from the baking dish in the center of the table. If you want to impress guests, plate individual portions and garnish with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of extra cheese. Using mini ramekins for single servings creates a charming presentation perfect for special occasions or cozy dinners.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen overnight, and it will still reheat beautifully for a quick lunch or dinner.
Freezing
This Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe freezes well. Prepare the casserole fully but do not bake it. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, bake from frozen, adding extra baking time as needed until warmed through and bubbly.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until desired temperature is reached. Cover the dish with foil to keep it moist. You can also microwave individual portions covered with a damp paper towel for about 2-3 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use different types of noodles for this recipe?
Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional and provide a velvety texture, you can substitute with rotini, penne, or even small shells. Just make sure they’re cooked al dente to avoid mushy casserole.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms, tofu, or extra vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers. Use a vegetarian cream soup alternative to keep it creamy and delicious.
Can I prepare this casserole a day ahead?
Definitely. You can assemble the casserole a day early, keep it covered in the refrigerator, and bake it fresh before serving. This makes it an excellent make-ahead meal for busy days.
What can I do if I don’t have sour cream?
If you’re out of sour cream, plain Greek yogurt is a great substitute that still offers creaminess and a slight tang without changing the flavor too much.
How spicy is this recipe?
This casserole is mild and comforting with no heat. However, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños if you like a little kick.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe truly embodies comfort food at its finest — simple ingredients turned into a soul-warming meal that everyone will adore. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight or a friendly gathering, it promises ease, flavor, and satisfaction in every bite. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it part of your family favorites!
Print
Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for a family dinner. Made with tender egg noodles, shredded chicken, creamy soup, and cheesy goodness, it’s topped with buttery cracker crumbs for a delightful crunch. Ready in just 40 minutes, this casserole combines convenience and flavor effortlessly.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked egg noodles
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Topping
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked egg noodles, shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, thawed peas and carrots, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix all ingredients until evenly incorporated.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Spread the mixed casserole evenly into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top for an even bake.
- Add Optional Topping: If you choose to use the topping, blend the crushed buttery crackers with the melted butter, then sprinkle the mixture evenly over the casserole to create a crispy, golden crust.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through, bubbly, and the topping is golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to settle and makes serving easier.
Notes
- For a lower fat version, substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt and use low-fat cheese.
- You can add other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
- If you prefer a gluten-free version, use gluten-free noodles and crackers.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- To make ahead, assemble the casserole and store it covered in the fridge; bake when ready.
