Chicken noodle casserole – With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, perfectly cooked noodles, and a golden breadcrumb topping, this dish is a family favorite that warms the soul and fills the stomach for a busy weeknight, hosting a potluck, or meal-prepping for the week.
What is Chicken Noodle Casserole?
Chicken noodle casserole is a baked dish that combines tender chicken, egg noodles, vegetables, and a creamy sauce, often topped with breadcrumbs or cheese. It’s a comforting and satisfying dish that’s easy to customize, making it a staple in many kitchens.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need to make the perfect chicken noodle casserole:
- Chicken: Cooked and shredded chicken breast or rotisserie chicken works well.
- Egg Noodles: Wide egg noodles are classic, but other pasta types can work in a pinch.
- Creamy Base: A combination of cream of chicken soup and sour cream (or cream cheese) provides a rich and creamy texture.
- Vegetables: Classic options include peas, carrots, and celery. Feel free to add mushrooms or spinach.
- Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper enhance the flavor.
- Cheese: Cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan cheese can be used for richness and a gooey topping.
- Breadcrumbs or Crushed Crackers: For that golden, crispy topping.
- Butter: To mix with the breadcrumbs for extra crunch and flavor.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Chicken Noodle Casserole
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: For convenience and extra flavor, rotisserie chicken is an excellent choice.
- Cook Noodles Al Dente: Since the casserole will bake, slightly undercook the noodles to prevent them from getting mushy.
- Customize the Topping: Try adding grated Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of olive oil to the breadcrumb topping for extra flavor.
- Add a Splash of Broth: If your casserole seems dry, mix in ¼ cup chicken broth to keep it creamy.
Variations to Try
- Mexican Twist: Swap the cream of chicken soup for salsa, add black beans and corn, and use Monterey Jack cheese for a spicy variation.
- Healthier Version: Use whole wheat pasta, Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, and add extra vegetables like broccoli or zucchini.
- Cheesy Delight: Mix in more cheese varieties like Gouda or Gruyère for a gourmet touch.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs for a gluten-free alternative.
How to Serve Chicken Noodle Casserole
This casserole is a meal on its own, but you can pair it with:
- A crisp green salad with vinaigrette
- Steamed vegetables like green beans or asparagus
- Warm dinner rolls or crusty bread
How to Store and Reheat
Storing:
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezer: Chicken noodle casserole freezes beautifully. Place it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating:
- Oven: Reheat in a 350°F oven for 20-25 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.
- Microwave: Heat individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Recipe FAQs
1. Can I make chicken noodle casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole and refrigerate it (uncooked) for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.
2. Can I use canned chicken?
Yes, canned chicken can work in a pinch, but freshly cooked or rotisserie chicken is more flavorful.
3. What’s the best way to thaw frozen chicken noodle casserole?
Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
4. Can I substitute the cream of chicken soup?
Yes, you can make a homemade version using butter, flour, chicken broth, and milk for a healthier alternative.
Chicken Noodle Casserole
Chicken noodle casserole - With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, perfectly cooked noodles, and a golden breadcrumb topping, this dish is a family favorite that warms the soul and fills the stomach for a busy weeknight, hosting a potluck, or meal-prepping for the week.
Ingredients
- 4 cups chicken breast, cooked, chopped
- 12 oz (uncooked) egg noodles
- 1 cup (4 oz) shredded Cheddar cheese
- 1 1/2 cups sour cream
- 2 cans (10 oz each) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup Bread Crumbs Garlic and Herb
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
Instructions
- Heat oven to 350°F/178°C. Take a 13×9-inch (3-quart) baking dish and spray it with the cooking spray.
- Cook and drain egg noodles as per the instruction given on the package and set aside.
- Take a large bowl and combine chopped cooked chicken, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, frozen mixed vegetables and shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Then add cooked noodles and stir until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Now spread the mixture evenly in baking dish. Top it with Garlic and Herb Bread Crumbs (buying link given on the ingredients list). Now lightly spray on the top with cooking spray.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until heated through and center is bubbly.
Nutrition Information
Yield
8Serving Size
8Amount Per Serving Calories 635Total Fat 15gSaturated Fat 6gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 6gCholesterol 92mgSodium 534mgCarbohydrates 81gFiber 7gSugar 6gProtein 40g
dinnerbytes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although dinnerbytes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Still Hungry Try These Delicious Chicken Recipes:
- Chicken Salad Sandwich
- Flavorful Chicken Française
- Best Hot Chicken in Nashville
- Chicken Parmigiana Recipe
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Chicken noodle casserole is a timeless dish that brings comfort to every bite. Its versatility, ease of preparation, and endless customization options make it a must-have recipe in your collection. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or making a cozy dinner for two, this casserole is sure to please. Give it a try and see why it’s a favorite in so many homes!
