Name: Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Ingredients: Cooked chicken breast (rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving option); Wide egg noodles (dried, classic kind); 1 cup sour cream (adds creaminess and tang); 1 can cream of chicken soup (low-fat or heart-healthy version if preferred); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for bold, cheesy flavor); 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (melts beautifully for that stretchy, cheesy texture); 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (for crispy topping); 2 tbsp butter (melted or dotted on top to brown the topping)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Hey, friend, get ready to dive into a dish that’s pure comfort in every bite! This Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole is like a warm blanket for your soul, with tender chicken, twirly noodles, and a gooey, cheesy sauce that’s impossible to resist. Imagine scooping out a steaming portion, the cheese stretching in glorious strings, and the creamy, savory flavors wrapping you in cozy goodness. Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or when you just need a little love from your kitchen, this casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Trust me, you’re going to want to make this one on repeat!

Why You’ll Love Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole

This casserole isn’t just dinner—it’s a hug on a plate. Here’s why it’s about to become your new favorite:

Versatile: Great for family dinners, meal prep, or feeding a crowd at gatherings. It’s comfort food that fits any occasion.

Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples, affordable chicken, and cheese to create a hearty meal without breaking the bank.

Quick and Easy: Simple steps that come together in about an hour, even for beginner cooks. It’s practically foolproof!

Customizable: Add veggies, swap cheeses, or spice it up to suit your taste. This recipe bends to your vibe.

Crowd-Pleasing: Kids devour the cheesy noodles, and adults love the savory, creamy goodness. It’s a win for everyone at the table.

Ingredients

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Here’s what makes this casserole so irresistibly comforting. Each ingredient brings a little magic to the dish:

Egg Noodles

Twirly and tender, these noodles soak up the creamy sauce, making every bite hearty and satisfying.

Chicken Breast

Cooked and shredded, chicken adds lean protein and a mild flavor that pairs perfectly with the cheesy sauce.

Butter

A bit of butter creates a rich, velvety base for the sauce and adds that comforting, homey flavor.

All-Purpose Flour

Helps thicken the sauce, giving it that creamy, stick-to-your-ribs texture.

Milk

The foundation of the creamy sauce, making it smooth and luscious. Whole milk works best for richness.

Chicken Broth

Adds savory depth to the sauce, enhancing the chicken flavor without overpowering the dish.

Cheddar Cheese

Melty, sharp, and oh-so-cheesy, cheddar brings the gooey factor that makes this casserole irresistible.

Cream Cheese

A touch of cream cheese adds extra creaminess and a slight tang to the sauce.

Frozen Mixed Vegetables

Peas, carrots, and corn add color, texture, and a hint of sweetness to balance the richness.

Garlic Powder

A pinch adds a subtle, savory warmth that ties all the flavors together.

Onion Powder

Enhances the savory profile with a mild, sweet oniony note.

Breadcrumbs

Sprinkled on top with a bit of butter, they create a golden, crunchy topping that’s the perfect contrast to the creamy filling.

Instructions

Let’s get cooking! Here’s how to make this cozy casserole:

Preheat Your Equipment

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.

Cook the Noodles

Boil egg noodles in a large pot of salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Chicken

If not pre-cooked, poach or bake chicken breasts until fully cooked, then shred or dice into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.

Make the Creamy Sauce

In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in milk and chicken broth, stirring until smooth and thickened, about 5 minutes. Stir in cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder until melted and creamy.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix cooked noodles, shredded chicken, frozen vegetables, and the cheesy sauce. Stir until everything is evenly coated. The sauce should cling to the noodles like a cozy blanket.

Assemble the Casserole

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top and dot with small pieces of butter for a golden, crispy finish.

Bake to Perfection

Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown. If you want extra crunch, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end (watch closely!).

Finishing Touches

Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes scooping easier.

Serve and Enjoy

Scoop generous portions onto plates and serve hot. Pair with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 8\
Calories per serving: Approximately 450 kcal

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes\
Cook Time: 30 minutes\
Total Time: 50 minutes

How to Serve Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole

This casserole is a hearty meal on its own, but here are some ideas to make it even more delicious:

Fresh Salads: Pair with a crisp green salad with ranch or a Caesar dressing to balance the richness.

Crusty Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread or dinner rolls to soak up the creamy sauce.

Vegetable Sides: Roasted broccoli, green beans, or glazed carrots add color and a fresh contrast.

With a Drink: Enjoy with a glass of iced tea, lemonade, or a light white wine for a refreshing complement.

As a Standalone: This casserole is filling enough to shine solo, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Presentation tip: Serve in a colorful ceramic dish and sprinkle with extra cheese or herbs for a cozy, inviting look.

Additional Tips

Here are some pro tips to make your casserole perfect:

Prep Ahead: Cook the noodles and chicken a day in advance. Assemble the casserole and refrigerate, then bake when ready.

Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika to the sauce for a subtle kick, or toss in diced jalapeños for heat.

Dietary Adjustments: Use gluten-free noodles and flour for a gluten-free version, or swap dairy for plant-based alternatives.

Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently to maintain creaminess.

Double the Batch: Double the recipe and bake in two dishes or a larger pan for a crowd. Freeze one for an easy future meal.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I substitute chicken with another protein?\
A1: Yes! Turkey, ham, or even tuna work well. Adjust cooking times if using raw meat to ensure it’s fully cooked.

Q2: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?\
A2: Totally! Assemble up to a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready, adding 5-10 minutes if cold.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?\
A3: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Q4: Can I freeze this casserole?\
A4: Yes! Assemble and freeze before baking for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.

Q5: What’s the best way to reheat this casserole?\
A5: Reheat in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes, covered with foil, or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.

Q6: Can I double the recipe?\
A6: Absolutely! Use a larger baking dish or two 9×13 pans. Perfect for potlucks or meal prep.

Q7: Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?\
A7: Sure! Sauté or steam fresh veggies like peas or carrots until tender before adding to the casserole.

Q8: What if I don’t have cream cheese?\
A8: Swap with sour cream or extra cheddar for creaminess, though the texture may be slightly different.

Q9: Can I make this vegetarian?\
A9: Yes! Skip the chicken and use veggie broth. Add more veggies like mushrooms or zucchini for heartiness.

Q10: Why is my casserole watery?\
A10: Ensure the sauce is thickened before mixing, and don’t overcook the noodles. Drain frozen veggies well to avoid excess liquid.

Conclusion

There you go, friend—a piping hot dish of Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole that’s ready to warm your heart and fill your belly! With its creamy, cheesy goodness, tender chicken, and twirly noodles, this casserole is the ultimate comfort food for any night of the week. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, bringing a dish to a potluck, or just craving something cozy, this recipe delivers every time. So grab your baking dish, crank up some feel-good tunes, and whip up this crowd-pleasing masterpiece. Happy cooking, and enjoy every cheesy, comforting bite!