Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with a classic comfort food that never goes out of style: the Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe. This is the kind of dish that brings everyone running to the dinner table — a bubbling, golden-topped casserole packed with tender chicken, hearty noodles, and a velvety sauce that hugs every bite. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family on a chilly night or bringing a crowd-pleaser to your next potluck, this recipe captures everything there is to love about creamy, nostalgic American home cooking.

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the joys of this Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe is how it comes together with simple, familiar ingredients that each play an important role. Every component adds its own special touch, from texture and color to that crave-worthy, creamy flavor that makes this dish irresistible.

• Egg noodles (12 oz): These classic noodles soak up the sauce while holding their shape, making the casserole hearty and satisfying.
• Butter (2 tablespoons): Adds richness and helps sauté the veggies for a flavor-packed base.
• Yellow onion (1 small, diced): Sweetens and deepens the flavor of the casserole as it cooks down.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Brings a warm, savory aroma and subtle depth.
• Cooked shredded chicken (2 cups): Use leftover, rotisserie, or freshly cooked chicken for protein and heartiness.
• Frozen peas (1 cup): Pop of color and sweetness, plus an easy way to sneak in veggies.
• Sliced mushrooms (1 cup): Earthy, savory, and they add wonderful texture.
• Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Melts into the sauce for creaminess and a hint of sharpness.
• Sour cream (1/2 cup): Gives the sauce tang and even more velvety richness.
• Mayonnaise (1/2 cup): Lends body and silkiness to the creamy base.
• Cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz can): The secret to classic casserole creaminess.
• Milk (1/2 cup): Loosens up the sauce, ensuring every noodle gets coated.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors in the dish.
• Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds just the right amount of gentle heat.
• Dried thyme (1/2 teaspoon): A touch of herby flavor that brightens the casserole.
• Breadcrumbs (1/2 cup): For that irresistible golden, crunchy topping.
• Melted butter (1 tablespoon): Helps the breadcrumbs bake up crisp and delicious.
• Chopped parsley (optional): Adds a fresh, colorful finish if you like.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Preheat

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. This ensures it’s perfectly hot and ready when your casserole is assembled, so you get that signature golden, bubbly finish on top. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a bit of butter or nonstick spray to make serving and cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Cook the Egg Noodles

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions, just until al dente. This helps the noodles soak up the creamy sauce without becoming mushy once baked. Drain them well and set aside — you’ll be tossing them with all that deliciousness in just a minute.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and add the diced onion. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion softens and becomes fragrant. Stir in the garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and the kitchen smells amazing.

Step 4: Mix Everything Together

Grab your biggest mixing bowl and combine the cooked noodles, shredded chicken, sautéed veggies, peas, cheddar cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, cream of chicken soup, milk, salt, pepper, and thyme. Stir it all together until the mixture is creamy and evenly combined. This is where the magic happens — every ingredient comes together to create that luscious casserole base.

Step 5: Assemble and Top the Casserole

Transfer the creamy mixture to your prepared baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter, then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top. This buttery breadcrumb topping bakes up golden and crunchy, giving the Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe its signature finish.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Slide the casserole into the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, until it’s hot and bubbling around the edges and the top is beautifully golden. If you love an extra-crispy topping, pop it under the broiler for 1-2 minutes at the end — just keep a close eye so it doesn’t burn!

Step 7: Rest and Garnish

Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes after baking. This gives the sauce a chance to set up, making it easier to serve. If you like, sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a fresh burst of color and flavor. Now it’s time to scoop and enjoy!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

While the casserole is absolutely delicious on its own, a handful of fresh chopped parsley or a sprinkle of extra cheddar cheese just before serving can make it look and taste even more inviting. For a little zing, try a few grinds of black pepper or even a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a gentle kick.

Side Dishes

This Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe is a meal in itself, but it’s wonderful with a crisp green salad, steamed broccoli, or roasted carrots on the side. Warm dinner rolls or a slice of crusty bread are perfect for soaking up every last bit of that creamy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For family-style comfort, serve the casserole straight from the baking dish at the table. If you want to impress at a potluck or dinner party, spoon portions into individual ramekins or oven-safe bowls for a cute, personalized touch. You can also add a sprinkle of crushed potato chips or fried onions to the top for a fun, retro vibe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of the Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe store beautifully. Simply cover the baking dish tightly with foil or transfer portions to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors meld together even more, making leftovers a real treat!

Freezing

This casserole is ideal for freezing. Assemble the dish but hold off on baking — cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, add the breadcrumb topping, and bake as directed.

Reheating

To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. For individual portions, a quick zap in the microwave works well, but if you want to revive that crispy top, a few minutes under the broiler does the trick.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! While egg noodles are classic, you can swap in rotini, penne, or even whole wheat pasta if you prefer. Just be sure to cook your noodles al dente so they hold up during baking.

What’s the best chicken to use?

Rotisserie chicken is a time-saving favorite, but any cooked, shredded chicken works well. Leftover grilled or baked chicken brings extra flavor, and you can even use turkey in a pinch.

How can I make this casserole a bit lighter?

You can substitute light sour cream and mayonnaise, use reduced-fat cheese, and opt for low-sodium cream of chicken soup. Adding extra veggies like broccoli or spinach is another way to bulk it up with more nutrition.

Can I prepare the Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe ahead of time?

Definitely! Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, just add a couple of extra minutes to the bake time since it will be starting from cold.

What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to get creative! Chopped bell peppers, corn, diced carrots, or spinach all work beautifully in this casserole. It’s a great way to use up whatever’s in your fridge and add even more color and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving comfort food that’s big on flavor and easy on effort, give this Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe a try. It’s a true family favorite that’s sure to become a regular star on your dinner table — and I can’t wait for you to experience how cozy, creamy, and downright delicious it is!

Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe

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4.8 from 5 reviews

• Author: admin
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish, combining tender egg noodles, shredded chicken, and savory vegetables in a rich, cheesy sauce. Perfectly baked to golden perfection with a buttery breadcrumb topping, it’s an easy and satisfying family meal that comes together in under an hour.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pasta and Protein

• 12 oz egg noodles
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken

Vegetables

• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms

Dairy and Sauces

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1/2 cup milk

Seasonings and Toppings

• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon melted butter
• Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven and Cook Noodles: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Cook the egg noodles according to the package directions until they are al dente. Drain the noodles and set them aside.
2. Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until fragrant and tender.
3. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked noodles, shredded chicken, sautéed onion, garlic and mushrooms, frozen peas, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, cream of chicken soup, milk, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme. Stir everything together until well mixed.
4. Assemble Casserole: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Transfer the noodle and chicken mixture into the prepared dish and spread it evenly.
5. Add Topping: In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with 1 tablespoon of melted butter. Sprinkle this breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
6. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the top is golden brown.
7. Rest and Garnish: Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired for a fresh, colorful finish.

Notes

• You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience and flavor.
• Add extra vegetables such as broccoli or corn to increase nutrition and variety.
• For a crispier topping, broil the casserole for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking—watch closely to prevent burning.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 510
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 690mg
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 95mg