Chicken Noodle Casserole

Ah, Chicken Noodle Casserole. Just saying the name conjures up memories of cozy family dinners around the table. I remember the first time I made this dish, it was a chilly Sunday evening, and I wanted something simple yet heartwarming to bring us together. This dish quickly became a family favorite and for good reason! It’s one of those comforting meals that warms you from the inside out and makes everyone feel right at home.

The beauty of this casserole lies in its simplicity and the way it masterfully combines flavors and textures into a single, satisfying dish. The creamy sauce envelops every bite, making it irresistibly comforting, while the crunchy topping adds just the right amount of contrast. It’s a recipe that takes humble ingredients and elevates them into something special.

Why You’ll Love This Comfort Food

• Family-Friendly: This Chicken Noodle Casserole is perfect for bringing the family together. It has a little something for everyone, from tender chicken to creamy sauce, all wrapped up in a cheesy, crunchy topping. The appeal transcends age—children love the creamy, cheesy goodness, and adults appreciate the balanced flavors and satisfying bite.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require any fancy techniques. If you can boil noodles and stir, you can make this dish! It’s ideal for those busy weeknights when you crave home-cooked comfort without the fuss.
• Accessible Ingredients: You probably have most of these ingredients on hand already. The recipe calls for everyday items like chicken, noodles, and vegetables, making it convenient for a last-minute dinner. Plus, it’s a great way to make use of leftover chicken or veggies you have in the fridge.
• Comfort in a Dish: This casserole is pure comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and filling. It’s the perfect antidote to a long day. Whether it’s a cold winter night or you just need a little extra comfort, this dish does the trick.
• Versatile and Adaptable: You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have in the pantry or adjust the flavors to suit your family’s preferences. Want to make it spicier? Throw in some red pepper flakes. Prefer a different cheese? Go for it!

The Recipe

Ingredients:

• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 8 ounces egg noodles
• 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted (optional)

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole will cook evenly and develop a beautiful golden top.
2. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside. Cooking them al dente is crucial to prevent them from becoming mushy when baked.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. This mixture should be smooth and creamy, with no lumps.
4. Add the shredded chicken, cooked egg noodles, and frozen mixed vegetables to the bowl. Stir until everything is evenly coated with the sauce. Make sure the chicken and vegetables are well distributed throughout the mixture.
5. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. If desired, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. For cheese lovers, a little extra cheese never hurts!
6. For an added crunch, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese layer. This step is optional but highly recommended for that perfect texture contrast.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown. Keep an eye on it in the last few minutes to ensure the top doesn’t over-brown.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Calories: 350 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Large pot for boiling noodles: Essential for getting those noodles cooked to perfection without sticking.
• Mixing bowl: A large one will help you combine all the ingredients without making a mess.
• 9×13 inch baking dish: The perfect size for this recipe, ensuring it cooks evenly and serves beautifully.
• Oven: The heart of any kitchen, where all the magic happens.
• Spoon for stirring: A sturdy spoon will help mix the ingredients thoroughly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure consistent results every time.

The Benefits of Each Ingredient

• Cooked Chicken: Provides protein and substance, making the casserole hearty and satisfying. It’s a great way to use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken for convenience. Plus, it’s an excellent source of lean protein.
• Egg Noodles: These noodles are the backbone of the casserole, offering a soft, comforting texture that holds up well in the oven. Their wide, flat shape is perfect for soaking up creamy sauces.
• Cream of Chicken Soup: This soup acts as a creamy base, binding all the ingredients together. It’s a classic ingredient in many comfort dishes, providing a rich, savory flavor that’s hard to beat.
• Sour Cream: Adds a tangy richness that balances the creaminess. It elevates the casserole’s flavor profile, adding depth and complexity.
• Chicken Broth: Enhances the savory flavors and keeps the casserole moist and delicious. It’s a subtle ingredient that plays a crucial role in rounding out the flavor.
• Frozen Mixed Vegetables: These add color, nutrition, and a little bit of sweetness to the dish. Plus, they’re easy to keep on hand. They provide a nice contrast in texture and can be swapped out for fresh vegetables if preferred.
• Cheddar Cheese: Melts beautifully on top, adding a gooey, cheesy layer that’s irresistible. Choose a sharp cheddar for a more pronounced flavor.
• Breadcrumbs: Optional, but they provide a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creamy interior. They can be seasoned for additional flavor or left plain for simplicity.
• Garlic and Onion Powder: Simple yet effective, these seasonings add depth and enhance the overall flavor. They’re a quick way to add aromatic notes without the need to chop fresh ingredients.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the best in each ingredient. Always taste and adjust, as the soup and cheese already contain salt.

What to Serve With This Casserole

This Chicken Noodle Casserole is a meal in itself, but you can complement it with a few sides:

• Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a crisp contrast to the creamy casserole. The acidity of the dressing helps to cut through the richness of the dish.
• Garlic Bread: Perfect for sopping up any sauce left on your plate. The garlicky flavor pairs wonderfully with the flavors of the casserole.
• Roasted Vegetables: For an extra dose of veggies, try serving this with roasted broccoli or Brussels sprouts. Their natural sweetness and crisp edges balance the creamy texture of the casserole.

For more delightful pairings, check out my Garlic Butter Green Beans or the Classic Caesar Salad.

Storage & Leftover Tips

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, storing them is easy:

• Refrigeration: Store the casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s the perfect meal prep dish, as it tastes just as good the next day.
• Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole. Just wrap it tightly in foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It’ll keep for up to 2 months. Freezing individual portions can make for easy, grab-and-go lunches.
• Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then bake at 350°F until heated through. You might want to cover it with foil to prevent the top from over-browning. A quick sprinkle of fresh cheese before reheating can refresh the dish.

You can also explore some tips on how to best freeze casseroles over at The Kitchn.

In conclusion, this Chicken Noodle Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting hug in a dish that brings families together. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or enjoying the leftovers the next day, this casserole is a testament to the joy of home-cooked meals. Happy cooking!