Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
If you’re craving comfort food that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It blends tender shredded chicken, perfectly cooked egg noodles, creamy soup, and melty cheese together with nutritious frozen veggies to create a dish that’s wholesome, satisfying, and downright delicious. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping for a cozy night in, this casserole transforms simple ingredients into a flavorful, hearty meal that everyone will adore.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients that each bring something special to the dish. From the protein-packed chicken to the creamy base and colorful vegetables, these components balance texture and flavor beautifully without any fuss.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Provides tender, lean protein that can be shredded easily for that perfect casserole texture.
- Wide egg noodles: These noodles hold up well to baking and absorb all the creamy goodness.
- Cream of chicken soup: Adds richness and a velvety smooth base for the casserole.
- Low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the mixture moist while adding savory depth without overpowering the dish.
- Sour cream: Brings a tangy creaminess that elevates every bite.
- Shredded cheese (cheddar and mozzarella): Melts perfectly to form a luscious, golden topping and adds melty gooeyness inside.
- Frozen mixed vegetables (peas and carrots): Adds a pop of color and textures while sneaking in some healthy nutrients.
- Onion powder: A subtle flavor booster to round out the savory profile.
- Garlic powder: Provides warm, aromatic notes that complement the chicken and cheese beautifully.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the lovely flavors.
How to Make Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Cook Noodles
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready once your casserole mixture is assembled. Then, boil the egg noodles until they’re just al dente—meaning tender but with a slight bite—about 8 minutes. Drain them well and set aside so they don’t overcook while you prepare the chicken.
Step 2: Cook and Shred the Chicken
Season your chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Cook them in a skillet over medium heat until they develop a beautiful golden crust, roughly 6 to 7 minutes per side. Once cooked through, allow them to cool slightly before shredding by hand or with forks. This shredded chicken will bring both heartiness and moisture to your casserole.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, gently mix together the cooked noodles, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, frozen vegetables, garlic powder, onion powder, and half of your shredded cheese. This mixture is where all the creamy, cheesy, and veggie-filled goodness comes together in perfect harmony.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure easy serving later. Pour your flavorful noodle and chicken mixture in, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese generously on top. This layer will melt and bubble up, creating that irresistible golden crown on your casserole.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake your casserole in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s bubbling around the edges and the cheese on top has turned a gorgeous golden brown. Let it cool for 5 to 10 minutes before serving — this waiting time helps everything set just right and makes it easier to slice and serve.
How to Serve Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives adds not only a burst of fresh color but also a subtle oniony brightness that pairs beautifully with the creamy casserole. For an extra pop, a dash of paprika or a drizzle of hot sauce can awaken the flavors even further.
Side Dishes
This casserole shines as a one-dish meal but pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance its richness. Roasted Brussels sprouts or steamed green beans with a squeeze of lemon also add freshness and crunch for a well-rounded dinner.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family gathering or potluck, serve the casserole directly from the baking dish with a big spoon for comfort and casual charm. Alternatively, scoop individual portions into pretty ramekins for a neat presentation that makes everyone feel special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It tastes fantastic reheated, as the flavors deepen overnight, making your next meal even more enjoyable.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully! To freeze, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly with plastic wrap followed by a layer of foil or store it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months — perfect for busy weeks or unexpected guests.
Reheating
Reheat your casserole straight from the fridge or thawed from frozen in a 350°F oven until heated through and bubbly, usually 20 to 30 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent the cheese from burning, then uncover at the end if you want to refresh that golden crust.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this casserole?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut that adds flavor and saves time without sacrificing the deliciousness of this dish.
What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to mix it up with peas, corn, broccoli, or even mushrooms — whatever you love or have on hand works wonderfully in this recipe.
Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the egg noodles with your favorite gluten-free pasta to keep the dish safe and tasty for gluten-sensitive friends.
Is sour cream necessary?
Sour cream adds a lovely tang and creaminess, but if you prefer, Greek yogurt can be used for a lighter, protein-rich alternative.
How spicy is this casserole?
This recipe is mild and kid-friendly but adding a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce at the end can give it a subtle kick if you like things a little more lively.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting about this Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe that keeps me coming back again and again. It’s effortless to make, packed with flavors and textures that feel like home, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. I can’t wait for you to try it yourself and experience just how simple and satisfying a casserole can be!
Print
Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish combining tender shredded chicken, wide egg noodles, creamy sauce, melted cheese, and mixed vegetables. Perfect for a family dinner, it brings together simple ingredients baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Pasta
- 8 oz wide egg noodles
Sauce & Dairy
- 1 can cream of chicken soup (approximately 10.5 oz)
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar and mozzarella mix)
Vegetables
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (peas and carrots)
Seasonings
- Onion powder, to taste
- Garlic powder, to taste
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the casserole later.
- Cook Noodles: Boil the wide egg noodles in salted water for about 8 minutes until al dente, then drain and set aside to cool slightly.
- Cook Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from heat and let cool before shredding into bite-sized pieces.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked noodles, shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, frozen mixed vegetables, garlic powder, onion powder, half of the shredded cheese, and chicken broth. Stir thoroughly to blend all ingredients evenly.
- Assemble Casserole: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour the mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese on top is melted and golden brown.
- Cool & Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow it to set and for safer handling.
Notes
- Use a mixture of cheddar and mozzarella cheese for a flavorful and gooey topping.
- You can substitute mixed vegetables with fresh diced vegetables like carrots, peas, and corn if preferred.
- For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of dried thyme or parsley to the mixture.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
