Chicken noodle casserole is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender chicken, egg noodles, and veggies. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal to share with family, this casserole hits all the right notes. If you’ve ever wondered how to make chicken noodle casserole from scratch or with simple pantry staples, this guide will walk you through a foolproof recipe that’s both tasty and easy to prepare.
What You’ll Need: Ingredients for Chicken Noodle Casserole
Here’s a list of ingredients you’ll typically need to make a classic chicken noodle casserole:
– Chicken: Use cooked chicken breast, rotisserie chicken, or canned chunk chicken (about 3 cups diced).
– Egg noodles: About 12 ounces, cooked al dente and drained.
– Creamy base: Either condensed cream of chicken soup or a homemade creamy sauce made with butter, flour, chicken broth, and milk.
– Vegetables: Frozen peas and carrots are classic, but you can also add diced celery, onion, or other veggies you like.
– Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese adds a wonderful cheesy flavor.
– Topping: Panko bread crumbs or crushed crackers mixed with melted butter for a crispy, golden crust.
– Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and optional herbs like thyme.
This combination creates a rich, hearty casserole that’s both filling and flavorful.
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Chicken Noodle Casserole
1. Prepare the Noodles and Chicken
Start by cooking the egg noodles in salted boiling water until just al dente. Drain and set aside. If you’re using leftover or rotisserie chicken, dice it into bite-sized pieces. If using canned chicken, drain it well.
2. Make the Creamy Sauce
You have two options here:
– Using canned soup: Combine cream of chicken soup with milk and mayonnaise for a quick and creamy base.
– From scratch: Sauté diced onion, celery, carrots, and garlic in butter until softened. Stir in flour to make a roux, then gradually whisk in chicken broth and milk until thickened. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper. This homemade sauce adds extra depth and freshness.
3. Mix Everything Together
In a large bowl, combine the cooked noodles, chicken, creamy sauce, shredded cheddar cheese, and vegetables like peas and carrots. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated.
4. Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. For the topping, mix panko bread crumbs or crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the casserole. This topping will bake up golden and crispy, adding a perfect texture contrast.
5. Bake Until Bubbly and Golden
Bake the casserole uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 to 35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown. For an extra crispy top, you can broil it for a minute or two at the end, but watch carefully to avoid burning.
Tips for the Best Chicken Noodle Casserole
– Use rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut that adds great flavor.
– Don’t overcook the noodles before baking; they will soften further in the oven.
– Add your favorite veggies to customize the dish—broccoli, mushrooms, or bell peppers work well.
– Make it ahead: This casserole can be assembled a day in advance and baked just before serving.
– Leftovers reheat beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep.
Variations to Try
– Swap out the cheddar for mozzarella or pepper jack for a different cheese twist.
– Use cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup instead of cream of chicken for a flavor change.
– Add cooked bacon or ham for a smoky, savory boost.
– For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise or reduce the cheese amount.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken noodle casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs nicely with:
– A simple green salad with vinaigrette
– Roasted or steamed vegetables
– Fresh fruit salad for a sweet contrast
Why Chicken Noodle Casserole Is a Family Favorite
This casserole is a nostalgic dish that brings warmth and comfort to the table. It’s easy to make, uses ingredients you probably already have on hand, and satisfies everyone from kids to adults. Plus, it’s versatile enough to suit your pantry and taste preferences.
Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness and the crispy topping that makes every bite a delight. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for a cozy solo meal, chicken noodle casserole is a winner every time.
Chicken noodle casserole is simple, satisfying, and sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Give it a try tonight and enjoy a hearty, comforting meal made with love.