Heartwarming Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe for Cozy Evenings

Tucking into a hearty chicken noodle casserole always brings comfort during chilly evenings.

Memories of grandmother’s kitchen drift through my mind when this classic dish appears.

Creamy sauce and tender noodles create a magical combination that feels like a warm embrace.

Layers of succulent chicken blend perfectly with crispy breadcrumb toppings.

Nutritious ingredients come together in one delightful pan, promising satisfaction with every single bite.

Simple yet impressive, this recipe works magic for busy households seeking delicious meals.

Variations on Chicken Noodle Casserole

• Gluten-Free Comfort: Replace egg noodles with gluten-free pasta and use gluten-free breadcrumbs. Swap condensed soup for homemade cream sauce to ensure total gluten elimination.
• Vegetarian Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or plant-based chicken alternative. Use vegetable broth instead of milk for added flavor and maintain creamy texture.
• Low-Carb Version: Replace noodles with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and add extra cheese for richness and protein boost.
• Dairy-Free Adaptation: Use dairy-free cheese alternatives like nutritional yeast or cashew cheese. Replace milk with unsweetened almond milk and use coconut cream instead of sour cream.

Serving Chicken Noodle Casserole

• Family Comfort Plating: Serve this hearty casserole directly from the baking dish with a large serving spoon, creating a warm, inviting family-style presentation that feels cozy and homemade.
• Fresh Green Companions: Pair with a crisp garden salad dressed in light vinaigrette to balance the casserole's rich, creamy texture and add a refreshing contrast to the warm dish.
• Bread Basket Buddy: Accompany with warm dinner rolls or crusty garlic bread to help guests soak up the delicious sauce and complete the comforting meal experience.
• Wine Weekend Boost: Select a light white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc to complement the creamy chicken flavors and elevate the casual dinner to a slightly more sophisticated meal.

Storing Chicken Noodle Casserole

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Transfer casserole to a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Label with date and contents.
• Thaw overnight in refrigerator. Bake at 350F for 20-25 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying. Add a splash of milk to maintain moisture.
• Portion leftovers on microwave-safe plate. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until thoroughly warm. Add a tablespoon of milk to prevent dryness.

FAQs

• Can I use different types of noodles?

Yes, you can substitute egg noodles with other pasta like rotini, penne, or wide egg noodles. Just ensure they’re cooked al dente before mixing into the casserole.

• Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Absolutely! This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before baking. Just add 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time if cooking directly from the refrigerator.

• How can I make this dish healthier?

Try using low-fat cream of chicken soup, reduced-fat sour cream, and part-skim cheddar cheese. You can also add more vegetables like spinach or broccoli to increase nutritional value.

Chicken Noodle Casserole Everyone Will Enjoy

• Simplify Weeknight Cooking: One-bowl mixing, straightforward ingredients, and minimal prep make this recipe perfect for busy families wanting a delicious dinner without complicated steps.
• Customize Your Feast: Easily swap vegetables, use different cheese types, or add extra seasonings to match your family's preferences and keep mealtime exciting.
• Kid-Friendly Crowd-Pleaser: Creamy texture, mild flavors, and familiar ingredients ensure even picky eaters will enjoy every comforting bite of this hearty casserole.

Ingredients for Chicken Noodle Casserole

• Chicken: Tender, cooked protein that provides the foundation for the casserole.

• Egg Noodles, Peas, Carrots: Hearty pasta and colorful vegetables that add texture and nutrition to the dish.

• Cream of Chicken Soup, Milk, Sour Cream: Creamy ingredients that create a rich and smooth base for the casserole.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheese that adds depth of flavor and a melty texture.
• Garlic Powder, Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall taste profile.

• Breadcrumbs, Butter: Crispy, golden topping that provides a crunchy contrast to the creamy casserole.

How to Prepare Chicken Noodle Casserole

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Fire up your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grab a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Give the dish a quick spray of cooking oil or butter it up to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Create the Casserole Mixture

• Tender cooked chicken
• Soft egg noodles
• Sweet green peas
• Crunchy carrots
• Creamy condensed soup
• Smooth whole milk
• Rich sour cream
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Garlic powder
• Salt
• Black pepper

Stir everything together until all ingredients are beautifully combined and coated.

Step 3: Transfer to Baking Dish

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

Step 4: Prepare Crispy Topping

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

Step 5: Add Crunchy Topping

Sprinkle the buttery breadcrumb mixture over the top of the casserole, creating a golden, crispy layer.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

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

You’ll know it’s ready when the top turns a beautiful golden brown and the edges are bubbling with deliciousness.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after removing from the oven.

This helps it set and makes serving easier.

Dig in and enjoy your comforting meal!

Pro Tips for Chicken Noodle Casserole

• Add an extra splash of milk or broth to prevent the casserole from drying out during baking.
• Toast breadcrumbs in a skillet before topping for an extra crispy, golden-brown surface.
• Swap regular cheddar with smoked cheddar or add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for more depth.
• Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve.
• Replace chicken with cooked turkey or rotisserie chicken for a quick weeknight variation.

Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe

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4.6 from 13 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Comfort meets convenience in this classic chicken noodle casserole, blending tender pasta, succulent chicken, and creamy sauce into a heartwarming meal. Hearty layers promise pure satisfaction for families seeking delicious, easy dinners you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 3 cups (710 ml) chicken, shredded
• 8 ounces (227 grams) egg noodles, cooked
• 1 cup (150 grams) frozen peas and carrots
• 1 cup (240 ml) shredded cheddar cheese

Sauce and Binding Ingredients:

• 1 can (10.5 ounces/298 grams) cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup (240 ml) milk
• 1/2 cup (120 grams) sour cream

Seasoning and Topping:

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup (60 grams) breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

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Instructions

1. Warm the oven to 350F (175C) and lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
2. Combine shredded chicken, cooked egg noodles, tender peas, diced carrots, cream of chicken soup, whole milk, tangy sour cream, sharp cheddar cheese, aromatic garlic powder, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper in a spacious mixing bowl.
3. Transfer the creamy mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly to ensure consistent cooking.
4. Prepare the crispy topping by mixing breadcrumbs with melted butter until thoroughly combined.
5. Generously scatter the buttery breadcrumb mixture across the casserole surface, creating a golden, crunchy layer.
6. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, watching for a bubbling texture and rich golden-brown top.
7. Remove from oven and allow the casserole to rest for 5-7 minutes, enabling the ingredients to set and flavors to meld before serving.

Notes

• Customize vegetables by swapping peas and carrots with seasonal or preferred options like broccoli or zucchini for added nutrition and variety.
• Create a gluten-free version by using gluten-free noodles and breadcrumbs, ensuring everyone can enjoy this comforting dish.
• Boost protein content by adding extra shredded chicken or mixing in diced rotisserie chicken for a more substantial meal.
• Prep ahead by assembling the casserole earlier in the day and refrigerating, then bake when ready to serve for convenient meal planning.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 320 kcal
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 550 mg
• Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
• Trans Fat: 0.2 g
• Carbohydrates: 22 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 25 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg