If you are craving a cozy, comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a delightful blend of tender chicken, perfectly cooked egg noodles, and a luscious creamy sauce packed with savory flavors and just the right amount of cheesy goodness. With a buttery cracker topping that adds a crunchy contrast, this casserole is a perfect weeknight dinner or a potluck star that will have everyone asking for seconds. Easy to make and incredibly satisfying, it’s a recipe that brings classic comfort food vibes to your table every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward and familiar, but each plays a crucial role in creating the rich flavors and great textures that make this casserole shine. From the creamy dairy components to the vibrant veggies and cheese, each item has its place in building this irresistible dish.
- 2 cups cooked chicken: Use shredded or cubed chicken for tender, protein-packed bites throughout the casserole.
- 3 cups egg noodles: Cooked al dente, these noodles provide the perfect soft yet firm base to hold the sauce and chicken.
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots: Thawed to add a pop of color and slight sweetness that complements the savory elements.
- 1 cup sour cream: Adds creaminess and a subtle tang that elevates the casserole’s flavor profile.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: The classic comfort food ingredient that lends a smooth, savory depth.
- 1/2 cup milk: Lightens the sauce, ensuring it’s pourable and luscious without being too thick.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Contributes gooey meltiness and a mild flavor that blends beautifully with the chicken.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Sharpness and richness in cheese form that adds a wonderful bite.
- 1/2 cup crushed buttery crackers: Like Ritz, these bring a crispy, buttery topping that contrasts just right with the creamy interior.
- 2 tablespoons butter (melted): Joins the cracker topping, creating a golden, crunchy crust.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Simple seasoning to bring all the flavors together.
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh, herbaceous note and bright color for finishing touches.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Baking Dish
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. This step is key because it ensures your casserole will bake evenly and come out of the dish with ease later on.
Step 2: Cook the Egg Noodles
Boil the egg noodles according to package instructions until they are al dente—tender but still a bit firm to the bite. Properly cooked noodles absorb sauce just right and keep the casserole from turning mushy.
Step 3: Mix the Creamy Casserole Base
In a big bowl, combine the cooked chicken, thawed peas and carrots, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, milk, shredded mozzarella, and cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper. Then gently fold in the noodles, making sure everything is evenly coated in the creamy mixture. This step builds the casserole’s rich and flavorful heart.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Spread the mixture evenly in your prepared baking dish. Even layering ensures consistent cooking and that every serving has a perfect balance of chicken, noodles, cheese, and veggies.
Step 5: Prepare and Add the Crispy Topping
Mix the crushed buttery crackers with melted butter in a small bowl. Sprinkle this on top of the casserole. The buttery topping adds a crunch element that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior once baked.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Bubbling
Bake your casserole for 25 to 30 minutes until the topper is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly around the edges. This bake time melds all the flavors together and gives a satisfying texture contrast that makes this dish so comforting.
Step 7: Garnish and Let It Rest
Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle fresh parsley or chives on top, if desired, to add a burst of color and a light fresh note. Serving warm brings out the full creamy and cheesy experience.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
While fresh parsley or chives are lovely choices for garnishing, you can also opt for a dusting of paprika for a subtle smoky color or a few freshly cracked black peppercorns to add a touch of spice contrast. These simple flourishes make the dish look inviting and add layers of flavor.
Side Dishes
This casserole shines as a hearty main dish but pairs wonderfully with light sides like a crisp green salad tossed in vinaigrette, steamed green beans, or roasted Brussels sprouts. These add crunch and freshness that balance the richness of the casserole.
Creative Ways to Present
To make it extra special, serve this creamy chicken noodle casserole recipe in individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets for personalized portions. You can also sprinkle extra cheese on top before baking for a gooey, bubbly crust that’s irresistible.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making it even tastier the next day.
Freezing
This casserole freezes wonderfully—just cover tightly with foil or transfer to a freezer-safe container. It keeps well for up to 2 months, making it a convenient make-ahead meal for busy weeks.
Reheating
Reheat leftover casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20 minutes, or microwave individual servings for quicker meals. Cover loosely with foil to prevent drying out while reheating.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is perfect because it’s already cooked and full of flavor, saving you prep time and making the dish even easier to assemble.
What can I substitute for the cream of chicken soup?
If you prefer a homemade or lighter option, try making a quick white sauce with butter, flour, and chicken broth or use a cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor twist.
Can I add other vegetables to this casserole?
Yes, feel free to include veggies like mushrooms, broccoli, or bell peppers. Just make sure to cook or steam them ahead so they are tender when the casserole comes out of the oven.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing before baking?
Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and freeze before baking. When ready, bake from frozen but add extra baking time and check to ensure it’s heated through.
How can I make this casserole dairy-free?
You can swap sour cream for a dairy-free yogurt, use non-dairy milk, and choose dairy-free cheese alternatives to keep the creamy texture without dairy products.
Final Thoughts
Now that you have this wonderful Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe in your cooking arsenal, you’re just one dish away from warming up your dinner table with comforting, cheesy goodness. It’s simple to make, satisfying to eat, and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Give it a try and watch it quickly become a beloved classic in your home.
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Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This creamy chicken noodle casserole is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for family dinners. It combines tender cooked chicken, egg noodles, peas and carrots, and a savory blend of sour cream and cream of chicken soup, topped with a buttery cracker crust for a delightful crunch. Baked to golden perfection, this casserole is easy to prepare and sure to please a crowd.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
- 3 cups egg noodles (cooked according to package directions)
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (thawed)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Topping
- 1/2 cup crushed buttery crackers (like Ritz)
- 2 tablespoons butter (melted)
Seasonings and Garnish
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Noodles: Prepare the egg noodles according to the package directions, cooking until they are al dente. Drain the noodles thoroughly and set aside.
- Mix the Casserole Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, thawed peas and carrots, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, milk, shredded mozzarella, and cheddar cheese. Add salt and pepper to taste. Gently fold in the cooked noodles until all ingredients are evenly mixed.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread the chicken and noodle mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, ensuring an even layer for consistent cooking.
- Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix the crushed buttery crackers with the melted butter until the crackers are well coated.
- Top the Casserole: Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the top of the casserole to create a crunchy crust after baking.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the assembled casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly throughout.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives if desired, then serve warm.
Notes
- You can substitute cooked rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- For a lighter version, use low-fat sour cream and reduced-fat cheeses.
- Feel free to swap peas and carrots with other vegetables like broccoli or mushrooms.
- Make sure not to overcook noodles initially, as they will continue cooking in the oven.
- Make ahead tip: Assemble the casserole and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
