This Chicken Noodle Casserole is a warm and hearty dish! It’s loaded with tender chicken, comforting noodles, and a creamy sauce that brings it all together.
What’s great is how easy it is to make—just mix it up, pop it in the oven, and enjoy! It’s perfect for family dinners. I love leftovers too; they make for a tasty lunch the next day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Diced chicken breast is common, but rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. If you’re vegetarian, cooked chickpeas or tofu can work as substitutes.
Egg Noodles: While I love egg noodles for their texture, any pasta like penne or fusilli can be swapped in. Gluten-free pasta is also an option if you need it.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This adds creaminess, but you can replace it with homemade white sauce or use cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor. For a dairy-free option, coconut cream can work, just be mindful of the flavor change.
Sour Cream: Greek yogurt is an excellent swap. It adds creaminess with extra protein. If you prefer dairy-free, look for plant-based sour cream or yogurt.
Frozen Mixed Vegetables: These are convenient and versatile! Fresh veggies can replace them, like broccoli or bell peppers. If you want more flavor, toss in some sautéed mushrooms instead.
How Do I Get the Casserole to Turn Out Creamy and Not Dry?
The key to a creamy casserole is ensuring that your sauce is well-blended and moist. When mixing the soup and other ingredients, make sure everything is incorporated. Keep these steps in mind:
- Use enough liquid—adding milk helps keep the dish moist.
- Don’t overcook the noodles; al dente is the perfect texture for absorbing sauce without becoming mushy.
- Spread your mixture evenly in the baking dish to ensure even cooking and avoid dry patches.
Let it sit for a few minutes after baking to thicken, creating a nice balance between creamy and cohesive. Enjoy!
How to Make Chicken Noodle Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 8 ounces egg noodles
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup crispy fried onion rings (optional, for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Chicken Noodle Casserole will take about 15 minutes for prep and 30-35 minutes to bake, making a total of about 50 minutes to get this delicious dish on your table. It’s perfect for a cozy family meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will make sure your casserole bakes evenly and gets bubbly and golden.
2. Cook the Egg Noodles:
Next, cook the egg noodles according to the instructions on the package. Make sure they’re al dente, which means they should be soft but still have a little bite. After cooking, drain the noodles and set them aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and milk. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s nice and smooth—this will be the creamy base for your casserole.
4. Combine Everything:
Now it’s time to add some hearty goodness! Stir in the diced cooked chicken, the drained egg noodles, and the frozen mixed vegetables into the soup mixture. Make sure everything is well mixed so each bite is full of flavor.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with a little cooking spray or butter. Pour the chicken mixture into the dish and spread it evenly, so it cooks nicely.
6. Add Toppings:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. If you like a little crunch, go ahead and add the crispy fried onion rings too—they’re optional but oh-so-delicious!
7. Bake:
Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes. You want the casserole to be bubbly and the top a lovely golden color. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s done, take the casserole out of the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This will help it set a bit. Now, scoop out a hearty portion and enjoy your yummy Chicken Noodle Casserole with family or friends!
Can I Use Fresh Chicken Instead of Cooked Chicken?
Absolutely! If you’re using fresh chicken, simply cook it first by boiling or baking until it’s fully cooked, then dice it before adding it to the casserole mixture. Allow it to cool slightly before mixing with the other ingredients.
What Can I Substitute for Cream of Chicken Soup?
If you don’t have cream of chicken soup on hand, you can use homemade cream of chicken sauce or substitute with cream of mushroom soup, or even a mixture of 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt and 1/2 cup chicken broth for a healthier option!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave or warm in the oven until heated through. If the casserole seems dry, add a splash of milk before reheating to moisten it again.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day ahead! Assemble it in the baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the cover and bake as directed, adding an additional 5-10 minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.
