Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe

Name: Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3-4 boneless skinless chicken breasts; 8 oz medium-width egg noodles; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables; 1 teaspoon onion powder

Published: February 11, 2025

by Amelia

Why You’ll Love This chicken noodle casserole

Quick and Easy Preparation: This chicken noodle casserole comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time. Simply combine everything in one dish for effortless cooking.

Family-Friendly Comfort Food: Everyone loves a warm bowl of comfort food, and this casserole is sure to please both kids and adults alike. Its creamy texture combined with tender chicken and noodles makes it an appealing option for picky eaters while also providing essential nutrients.

Versatile Ingredients: One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. You can customize it by adding vegetables like peas or carrots, or switch up the protein by using turkey instead of chicken. This adaptability means you can enjoy it in various ways while minimizing food waste.

Perfect Leftovers: This dish reheats beautifully, making it great for meal prep or leftovers. You can store uneaten portions in the fridge or freezer, allowing you to enjoy another comforting meal later without any extra effort.

Recipe preparation

Ingredients for chicken noodle casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 breasts; they offer lean protein without excess fat.
Egg Noodles: Medium-width egg noodles work best; they’ll absorb the sauce while retaining their shape.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This adds creaminess and flavor; consider low-fat options if desired.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Choose sharp cheddar for added flavor; it melts beautifully into the dish.
Frozen Mixed Vegetables: These add color and nutrients; select blends without added sauces.
Onion Powder: For seasoning; it enhances overall flavor without overwhelming the dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make chicken noodle casserole

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even cooking when you place your casserole inside.

Cook The Noodles: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain them well before adding them to your mixture.

Mix The Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked noodles, shredded cooked chicken breasts, cream of chicken soup, frozen mixed vegetables, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until all ingredients are well combined.

Add Cheese Topping: Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish (around 9×13 inches). Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top for that delicious cheesy crust.

Bake The Casserole: Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes until heated through and bubbly on top.

Serve And Enjoy!: Remove from oven once golden brown on top; let it cool slightly before serving. Transfer to plates and enjoy your comforting meal!

Serving and storing

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

Add Fresh Herbs: Enhance flavor by incorporating fresh herbs like parsley or thyme before baking. Their aromatic qualities complement the overall taste beautifully.

Use Rotisserie Chicken: For even quicker preparation, consider using rotisserie chicken instead of cooking your own. It saves time while still delivering great flavor.

Sauce Variations: Feel free to experiment with different soups such as cream of mushroom for a unique twist on flavors while keeping that creamy consistency intact.

Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage. Reheat thoroughly before serving again!

Serving Suggestions

This chicken noodle casserole is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

Garlic Bread

Serve warm slices of garlic bread alongside your chicken noodle casserole. The crispy texture and buttery, garlicky flavor enhance the dish’s creamy goodness. Plus, it’s perfect for soaking up any extra sauce. You can easily make it at home or pick it up from your favorite bakery for a quick addition to your meal.

Steamed Vegetables

A side of steamed vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or green beans complements the richness of chicken noodle casserole. The bright colors and fresh flavors add a nutritious touch to your meal. Lightly seasoning the veggies with salt and pepper allows their natural sweetness to shine through, balancing the dish beautifully.

Side Salad

A crisp side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette makes an excellent pairing with chicken noodle casserole. The freshness of the salad cuts through the creaminess of the casserole, offering a refreshing contrast in textures and flavors. Adding some nuts or cheese can elevate your salad even more.

Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes serve as a comforting side dish that works well with chicken noodle casserole. The velvety texture of the potatoes complements the hearty nature of the casserole. You can make them traditional style with butter and cream or add garlic for an extra kick that enhances your meal experience.

FAQs

What is chicken noodle casserole?

Chicken noodle casserole is a baked dish that combines cooked chicken, noodles, vegetables, and creamy sauce topped with cheese or breadcrumbs. This comforting meal is perfect for family dinners or potlucks because it’s easy to prepare and always satisfying.

Can I make chicken noodle casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare chicken noodle casserole ahead of time. Assemble all ingredients in a baking dish and cover it tightly before refrigerating. When you’re ready to eat, bake straight from the fridge; just add a few extra minutes to ensure it’s heated thoroughly.

What can I substitute for noodles in chicken noodle casserole?

If you’re looking for alternatives to traditional noodles in your chicken noodle casserole, consider using rice, quinoa, or gluten-free pasta. These options provide different textures while still delivering that comforting feel you desire from this classic dish.

How do I store leftover chicken noodle casserole?

Store any leftover chicken noodle casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe containers. Just be sure to thaw it overnight before reheating when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

Conclusion

In summary, chicken noodle casserole offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures that make it a favorite among families. Easy to prepare and customizable, this dish suits various tastes and dietary needs. With serving suggestions like garlic bread or steamed vegetables providing complementary flavors, you can create a balanced meal that everyone will love.

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📖 Recipe Card