Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole is a cozy, family-friendly dish that combines tender chicken, egg noodles, creamy sauce, and melted cheese in one comforting bake. It’s a perfect way to use up leftover chicken and comes together quickly with simple pantry ingredients. Ideal for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or make-ahead meals, this casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

egg noodles
cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
cream of chicken soup (or mushroom/celery)
sour cream or mayonnaise
milk
shredded cheddar cheese
frozen peas or mixed vegetables
onion powder
garlic powder
salt
black pepper
butter (optional, for topping)
breadcrumbs or crushed crackers (optional, for topping)

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Cook the egg noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

In a large bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Add in the cooked noodles, shredded chicken, vegetables, and half of the shredded cheese. Mix until everything is well coated.

Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.

Top with remaining cheese.

(Optional) Mix melted butter with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers and sprinkle over the top.

Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until hot and bubbly with a golden top.

Let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6–8.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 25–30 minutes
Total time: 40–45 minutes

Variations

Use rotisserie chicken for a shortcut.
Add sautéed mushrooms or diced bell peppers for more veggies.
Swap cheddar for mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different cheese profile.
Try using cream cheese for an extra creamy base.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F until hot, or microwave individual portions.
Freeze baked or unbaked casserole for up to 2 months—thaw overnight in the fridge before baking or reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours in advance before baking.

What kind of chicken works best?
Any cooked chicken—rotisserie, baked, or even canned in a pinch.

Can I use other pasta?
Yes, short pastas like rotini or penne also work well.

Is this dish kid-friendly?
Definitely—creamy noodles and cheese make it a hit with kids.

Can I make it dairy-free?
Use dairy-free substitutes for sour cream, cheese, and soup.

Can I skip the topping?
Yes, but breadcrumbs or crackers add a great crunch.

What vegetables can I use?
Frozen peas, corn, green beans, carrots, or a mix all work well.

Can I add spices?
Absolutely—try paprika, thyme, or parsley for extra flavor.

How do I keep it from drying out?
Don’t overbake, and use enough milk and sour cream to keep it creamy.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a larger baking dish and increase bake time slightly.

Conclusion

Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—warm, creamy, cheesy, and satisfying. With minimal prep and simple ingredients, it’s a delicious solution for busy nights or feeding a hungry crowd. Make it once, and it’ll quickly become a staple in your family’s dinner rotation.

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