There is nothing quite like the comforting, warm hug of a Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe on a busy weeknight. This dish combines tender shredded chicken, perfectly cooked egg noodles, and a creamy, cheesy sauce that brings all the flavors together in pure harmony. Whether you’re craving a hearty meal for your family or want to impress guests with a simple yet satisfying dish, this casserole delivers on all fronts with its rich texture, delicious taste, and cozy feel that’s hard to resist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role, creating that perfect balance of creaminess, cheesiness, and just the right amount of savory goodness. Let’s break down what you need to create this comforting classic.
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken: Brings protein and a tender, meaty bite that’s perfect for this dish.
- 8 oz egg noodles (about 4 cups uncooked): These noodles hold the creamy sauce beautifully and provide a soft, satisfying texture.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: Adds a rich, smooth base that ties the casserole together effortlessly.
- 1 cup sour cream: Provides tangy creaminess that lifts the whole dish.
- 1/2 cup milk: Helps thin the sauce just enough for that silky consistency.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided: The star of the show for cheesiness and that golden melty top.
- 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional): Adds a pop of color and a subtle sweetness, perfect to brighten the casserole.
- 1/2 cup frozen corn (optional): Sweet kernels that bring an extra layer of texture and flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a gentle savory depth to the flavor profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the savory background to complement the chicken and cheese.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and bringing out all the other flavors.
- 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs (optional topping): For a buttery, crunchy topping that adds contrasting texture.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional topping): Keeps the topping golden and crispy while adding richness.
How to Make Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish to ensure your cheesy masterpiece doesn’t stick, making it easier to serve and clean up afterward.
Step 2: Cook the Egg Noodles
Boil your egg noodles according to the package instructions until perfectly tender. Drain them well and set aside. The noodles are the comforting bed that soaks up all that delicious sauce.
Step 3: Mix the Creamy Sauce
In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and well incorporated. This sauce is where all the creaminess and cheesy goodness start developing.
Step 4: Add Chicken, Noodles, and Veggies
Fold in your shredded chicken, cooked noodles, and if you’re using them, the frozen peas and corn. Make sure everything is nicely coated with that luscious sauce. This mix is the heart of your casserole, full of flavor and comfort.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the entire mixture into your prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top for a bubbly, golden cheese crust. If you want that extra crunch and buttery topping, sprinkle crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs and drizzle with melted butter.
Step 6: Bake Until Bubbly
Place your casserole in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is melted, bubbling, and lightly golden on top. This step transforms the ingredients into a beautifully melded dish bursting with flavor.
Step 7: Let it Rest
After baking, allow your casserole to rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the sauce thicken up a bit so every bite holds together perfectly and lets the flavors settle beautifully before serving.
How to Serve Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives add a lovely brightness as a garnish and boost the visual appeal. A light sprinkle of extra cheddar or even a dash of smoked paprika gives an inviting color and a hint of smoky warmth that pairs perfectly with the creamy casserole.
Side Dishes
Since this casserole is already so rich and satisfying, consider something light and crisp on the side. A zesty green salad with a simple vinaigrette, or steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans, offers a fresh contrast that balances the meal wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more personal touch, try assembling and baking this casserole in individual ramekins or small skillets. It makes for charming plating and a fun twist, especially when serving family or guests. You could also sprinkle extra crunchy toppings right before serving for an added flair of texture and presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This casserole tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. Simply cover and pop it in the fridge for a quick and comforting meal later.
Freezing
To freeze, portion your casserole into freezer-safe containers and seal tightly. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture and taste.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers covered in the microwave or oven until warmed through. If using the oven, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes. This will refresh the melty cheese topping and bring back that casserole warmth you love without drying it out.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this casserole?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that adds a great flavor and tender texture, making your Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe even quicker to prepare.
Is it possible to make this casserole dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives like coconut milk, dairy-free sour cream, and vegan cheese. Just keep in mind that the texture and taste will be a bit different but still delicious.
Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to suit your preferences and boost the nutritional punch of this classic dish.
What if I don’t have egg noodles?
Pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or even macaroni can work well as substitutes. Just cook them according to package instructions and use them like you would the egg noodles.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time and bake it later?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to step 5, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a meal that feels like a warm hug, the Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe is your answer. It’s easy to make, deeply satisfying, and versatile enough to become a new family favorite. Give it a try—you might just find yourself reaching for this comforting classic again and again!
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Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole combines tender shredded chicken, egg noodles, and a creamy cheddar sauce for a comforting and hearty meal. Enhanced with peas and corn for a pop of color and sweetness, this baked casserole is topped with additional cheese and optional buttery breadcrumbs for a delightful crispy finish. Perfect for family dinners and easy to prepare in about 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 8 oz egg noodles (about 4 cups, uncooked)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)
- 1/2 cup frozen corn (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Topping
- 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs (optional)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish to ensure the casserole doesn’t stick.
- Cook Noodles: Boil the egg noodles according to package instructions until tender. Drain thoroughly and set aside to cool slightly.
- Make Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and well blended.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the shredded chicken, cooked noodles, frozen peas, and frozen corn to the sauce mixture. Stir everything carefully to coat the noodles and chicken evenly in the creamy sauce.
- Assemble Casserole: Pour the combined mixture into the greased casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top. If desired, sprinkle the buttered crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs for a crispy topping.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and the casserole is hot and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes to set before serving. This rest time helps the casserole firm up for easier portioning.
Notes
- For a crispier topping, ensure the crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs are well-coated with melted butter before adding on top.
- You can substitute cream of chicken soup with a homemade white sauce for a fresher version.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like chopped carrots or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat covered in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
