Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole

Few meals deliver cozy satisfaction quite like an easy chicken noodle casserole. It’s warm, hearty, family-friendly, and incredibly simple to make. Whether you’re looking to repurpose leftover chicken, prep a freezer meal for busy nights, or whip up a nostalgic classic, this casserole has you covered.

The magic of this dish lies in its creamy texture, savory flavor, and familiar ingredients. Made with egg noodles, shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, cheddar cheese, and simple pantry seasonings, this comfort food staple deserves a permanent place in your meal rotation. The best part? It can be on your table in under an hour, including prep and bake time.

For anyone curious about the origins of casseroles, the term generally refers to dishes cooked slowly in the oven in a deep pan. You can read more about the history of the casserole on Wikipedia. And if you’re searching Pinterest for ideas, check out these easy chicken casserole ideas for even more inspiration. You’ll find plenty of variations on this American favorite, each offering its own twist on the original recipe.

Let’s dive deep into everything you need to know to make your easy chicken noodle casserole a guaranteed success—from ingredients to step-by-step instructions, storage tips, variations, and more.

🍗 What is chicken noodle casserole?

Chicken noodle casserole is a baked comfort dish typically made from egg noodles, shredded or diced cooked chicken, a creamy sauce (often using cream of chicken soup), vegetables like peas and carrots, and topped with cheese or a crunchy topping.

While it takes inspiration from traditional chicken noodle soup, this version is thicker, creamier, and more filling. Think of it as the ultimate fusion between soup and lasagna—a layered experience of cozy flavors and creamy textures baked to perfection.

Historically, the casserole became popular in American kitchens post-World War II due to its ability to feed large families affordably. With pantry staples, canned goods, and leftover meats, it was (and remains) a brilliant example of practical, delicious cooking.

If you’re new to casseroles, Wikipedia’s page on comfort food also offers insights into why dishes like this endure as family favorites.

🧂 Ingredients breakdown

Understanding each component helps you customize and perfect your easy chicken noodle casserole. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:

Core Ingredients

• 12 oz egg noodles, cooked and drained
  Egg noodles are ideal because they’re soft, slightly chewy, and hold sauces well. Learn more about egg noodles and why they’re different from standard pasta.

• 3 cups shredded chicken, cooked
  You can use roasted, boiled, or even rotisserie chicken. For convenience, rotisserie is a popular choice. Read about the nutritional profile of chicken as a protein source.

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
  This pantry staple creates the creamy base. For a lighter version, consider using reduced-sodium or fat-free options. Learn about cream of chicken soup for more details.

• ½ cup sour cream
  This adds tang and creaminess to the dish. Sour cream helps to balance the flavors and texture.

• ½ cup milk
  Combines with the soup and sour cream for a velvety sauce.

• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
  Cheddar offers that bold, melty flavor. Cheddar cheese is one of the most versatile cheeses used in casseroles.

• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
  These add color, sweetness, and nutrients.

Seasonings

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon onion powder

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Optional Topping

• ½ cup crushed butter crackers or breadcrumbs

• 2 tablespoons melted butter

You can skip the topping or replace butter crackers with panko breadcrumbs for a crunchier finish.

🍴 How to make easy chicken noodle casserole: Step-by-step

Here’s the no-fuss process to bring this easy chicken noodle casserole together in just a few steps:

Step 1: Preheat and prep

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

• Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or a light brush of oil.

Step 2: Mix the creamy base

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

• 1 can of cream of chicken soup

• ½ cup sour cream

• ½ cup milk

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon onion powder

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Whisk until smooth.

Step 3: Add chicken, veggies, and cheese

Fold in:

• 3 cups shredded chicken

• 1 cup peas and carrots

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Mix until evenly distributed.

Step 4: Add cooked noodles

Gently fold in the 12 oz cooked egg noodles. Stir carefully to keep the noodles intact but coated.

Step 5: Assemble the casserole

• Pour the mixture into your prepared dish.

• Spread evenly with a spatula.

Step 6: Top and bake

• Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese on top.

• If using the topping, mix ½ cup crushed crackers with 2 tablespoons melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the cheese.

Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly and lightly golden on top.

Step 7: Serve

• Let cool for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set.

• Enjoy hot and fresh, or pack leftovers for the next day.

💡 Tips for the best chicken noodle casserole

Get the most out of your casserole with these tried-and-true tips:

• Use rotisserie chicken for quick prep and rich flavor.

• Don’t overcook noodles before baking—they’ll soften further in the oven.

• Add more cheese for extra creaminess.

• Let rest after baking—this helps it firm up for easier slicing.

• Season to taste before baking, especially if using reduced-sodium soup.

You can browse even more cheesy casserole recipes on Pinterest for creative tweaks.

🧆 Variations of chicken noodle casserole

You can tailor this recipe to fit your family’s preferences or dietary needs. Here are some ideas:

Protein Substitutes

• Leftover turkey (great after holidays)

• Diced ham

• Canned tuna for a pescatarian version

Cream Alternatives

• Plain Greek yogurt for a tangy, high-protein twist

• Low-fat cream cheese as a thicker base

Veggie Add-ins

• Broccoli florets

• Corn kernels

• Green beans

Make sure any added veggies are thawed and drained well to prevent a watery casserole.

Gluten-free or Low-carb Options

• Use gluten-free pasta for a GF version

• Try zucchini noodles or spiralized vegetables for low-carb alternatives

You can explore more family dinner casseroles for inspiration on how to adapt this classic dish.

🧊 Make-ahead and storage instructions

Planning ahead? This casserole holds up beautifully.

Making it ahead

• Assemble the entire casserole up to the baking step.

• Cover with foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.

• When ready, bake as directed, adding 5–10 extra minutes if baking cold from the fridge.

Freezing instructions

• After assembling (but before baking), wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil.

• Freeze for up to 3 months.

• Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual.

Reheating tips

• Oven: Cover with foil and warm at 350°F for 20–25 minutes.

• Microwave: Reheat individual servings on high for 2–3 minutes.

🥗 What to serve with chicken noodle casserole

This dish is a meal on its own, but sides can elevate it. Try:

• Simple green salad with vinaigrette

• Garlic bread or dinner rolls

• Roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or asparagus

• Baked sweet potatoes

Each balances the richness of the casserole while offering nutritional variety.

🧮 Nutrition information and dietary notes

Each serving (based on 8 servings) provides approximate nutrition:

• Calories: 450

• Protein: 28g

• Carbs: 32g

• Fat: 24g

• Fiber: 3g

Dietary notes

• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free noodles and condensed soup.

• Dairy-free: Substitute dairy with vegan sour cream, cheese, and almond milk.

• Allergens: Contains dairy, wheat, and potentially soy from canned soup.

⚠️ Common mistakes to avoid

Avoid these pitfalls for the best results:

• Overcooking noodles before baking causes mushiness.

• Not seasoning enough—taste the mixture before baking.

• Using watery veggies without draining can ruin texture.

• Skipping rest time after baking may cause a runny dish.

These small adjustments make a big difference in flavor and consistency.

❓ FAQs

Can I use canned chicken in chicken noodle casserole?

Yes! Canned chicken is a quick and convenient substitute. Just make sure to drain and shred it before mixing.

How do you keep a casserole from drying out?

Cover it with foil if baking ahead, and don’t overbake. Adding a bit of extra milk or cheese helps maintain creaminess.

Can I make chicken noodle casserole in advance?

Absolutely. Assemble it the night before and refrigerate. Bake when ready, adding a few minutes if chilled.

What cheese works best in this casserole?

Cheddar is classic, but you can use Colby, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella for different flavor profiles.

How long does chicken noodle casserole last in the fridge?

Stored in an airtight container, it lasts up to 4 days in the refrigerator. Always reheat to an internal temperature of 165°F.

📄 Final thoughts & printable recipe card

This easy chicken noodle casserole is a comforting, classic dish that fits into any weeknight routine or family dinner. With its creamy base, hearty chicken, tender noodles, and melty cheese, it delivers both flavor and nostalgia in every bite.

We hope you try this recipe and make it your own. Want to save it for later? Don’t forget to print the recipe or pin it for your meal prep board!

For even more delicious ideas, check out our other family casserole recipes and learn more about staples like sour cream and cheddar cheese to deepen your culinary knowledge.

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