Looking for an easy, hearty, and delicious meal that your entire family will love? This Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole is the perfect choice. Packed with tender chicken, comforting noodles, and a creamy sauce, this dish is bound to become a family favorite. Plus, it’s simple to make and perfect for busy weeknights. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about this recipe, including ingredients, substitutions, and tips for perfecting your chicken noodle casserole!

What is an Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole?
An Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole is a cozy, baked dish made from cooked chicken, egg noodles, and a creamy sauce that ties everything together. It’s often topped with breadcrumbs or cheese for added texture and flavor. This casserole is versatile, easy to customize, and delivers that "home-cooked" taste everyone craves. Whether you're feeding a family or preparing it for a potluck, this casserole will satisfy and impress.
Ingredients List for Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole
To make this delicious and comforting dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Cooked Chicken (3 cups) – You can use rotisserie chicken or leftover chicken to make this recipe easier.
- Egg Noodles (12 oz) – Egg noodles are classic for this recipe, but you can substitute them with other pasta types if needed.
- Cream of Chicken Soup (1 can, 10.5 oz) – This helps create the creamy base for the casserole.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup (1 can, 10.5 oz) – Adds depth of flavor, but you can double the cream of chicken if you prefer.
- Sour Cream (1 cup) – Gives the casserole a creamy and tangy element.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese (2 cups) – Cheddar adds a rich, cheesy flavor to the casserole.
- Frozen Peas (1 cup) – Adds a pop of color and a little bit of nutrition.
- Breadcrumbs (½ cup) – For that crispy, golden topping.
- Butter (2 tablespoons) – Melted to mix with the breadcrumbs for topping.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste) – Basic seasoning to enhance all the flavors.
- Garlic Powder (½ teaspoon) – Adds a little extra flavor punch.
Optional Ingredients:
- Diced Carrots or Celery (½ cup each) – For extra veggies and crunch.
- Onion Powder (½ teaspoon) – If you want more depth of flavor without adding actual onions.
- Hot Sauce (a dash) – If you like your casserole with a bit of heat.
Substitutions and Variations
While this recipe is simple and comforting, there are numerous ways to customize it based on your dietary needs or ingredient availability. Here are some common substitutions and variations:
- Chicken Substitutes: If you don’t have chicken on hand, try substituting with turkey, ham, or even tuna for a twist on the traditional chicken noodle casserole.
- Noodles: Egg noodles work best for this dish, but you can easily swap them for gluten-free pasta, whole wheat pasta, or even elbow macaroni.
- Dairy-Free Version: Swap out the cream soups and sour cream for dairy-free alternatives like coconut milk, dairy-free cream soups, and vegan cheese.
- Vegetable Boost: Feel free to add more veggies like chopped broccoli, green beans, or even spinach for added nutrition and texture.
- Healthier Version: Use low-fat cheese, whole-wheat noodles, and reduced-fat soups to cut down on calories and fat without sacrificing flavor.
- Toppings: Not a fan of breadcrumbs? Try crushed crackers, crushed potato chips, or even French-fried onions for a crunchy topping variation.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

This Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole comes together in just a few simple steps. With minimal prep and cook time, you’ll have dinner ready in under an hour. Here's how to do it:
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your egg noodles and cook them according to the package instructions until they are al dente (usually around 7-8 minutes). Once done, drain the noodles and set them aside.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
While your noodles are cooking, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready to bake the casserole.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is well combined. If you're adding vegetables like peas or carrots, mix them in as well.
Step 4: Mix in the Noodles
Once your noodles are cooked and drained, fold them into the chicken and sauce mixture. Gently toss everything together until the noodles are evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
Step 5: Transfer to a Baking Dish
Lightly grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish, then pour the chicken and noodle mixture into the dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula.
Step 6: Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Mix until the breadcrumbs are coated, then sprinkle the mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
Step 7: Bake the Casserole
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Step 8: Let it Rest and Serve
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the casserole to set slightly, making it easier to serve.
How to Cook Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide
Here’s a quick recap of how to make this casserole:
- Cook and drain the noodles.
- Mix cooked chicken with soups, sour cream, cheese, and vegetables.
- Combine noodles with the creamy chicken mixture.
- Pour into a greased casserole dish.
- Top with buttered breadcrumbs.
- Bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making an Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole, there are a few mistakes you’ll want to avoid to ensure the dish turns out perfect every time:
- Overcooking the Noodles: Be sure to cook your noodles to al dente since they’ll continue to cook in the oven. Overcooked noodles will become mushy in the casserole.
- Not Using Enough Seasoning: While the soups add flavor, don’t forget to taste and adjust with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to avoid a bland casserole.
- Skipping the Topping: The crispy topping adds a wonderful texture contrast to the creamy filling. Don’t skip it!
- Not Letting it Rest: After baking, let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps the ingredients settle and makes it easier to serve.
Serving and Presentation Tips
A casserole may seem like a casual dish, but with a little extra care, you can serve and present it in a way that feels elegant and appetizing. Here’s how:
How to Serve Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole
- Serve the casserole hot, straight from the oven. Use a large serving spoon to dish out hearty portions onto individual plates.
- Pair it with a fresh, green side salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Add a slice of crusty bread or garlic bread on the side to complement the creamy texture of the casserole.
Presentation Ideas for Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole
- Garnish with fresh parsley or chives to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
- For a more refined presentation, serve the casserole in individual ramekins or mini casserole dishes.
- Arrange the casserole in a beautiful baking dish, making it the centerpiece of your table.
Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe Tips
To make sure your casserole turns out perfect every time, keep these helpful tips in mind:
- Make Ahead: You can prepare this casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil.
- Freezing: This casserole freezes well! Prepare it, but don’t bake it. Instead, cover it with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
- Leftovers: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole casserole in the oven at 325°F for 15-20 minutes.
- Enhancing Flavor: Add a teaspoon of Italian seasoning or some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to give the casserole an extra flavor boost.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it well to prevent it from drying out.
How long does this casserole last in the fridge?
The casserole will keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to store it in an airtight container.
Can I freeze chicken noodle casserole?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Assemble the casserole, but don’t bake it. Freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as usual.
What can I serve with chicken noodle casserole?
Pair the casserole with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread to make a complete meal.
Can I use a different type of noodle?
Yes, while egg noodles are traditional, you can use other pasta like rotini, penne, or macaroni.
Conclusion
This Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole is the perfect go-to recipe for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or family gatherings. Its creamy, cheesy, and comforting flavors are sure to win everyone over. With simple ingredients, easy steps, and plenty of opportunities for customization, this casserole is a must-try. Follow the tips and steps above to ensure your casserole turns out perfect every time, and don’t forget to experiment with your own substitutions and variations. Try it tonight and enjoy a meal that’s both satisfying and delicious!
PrintEasy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
This Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole recipe features tender chicken, egg noodles, and a creamy, comforting sauce. It's a simple, crowd-pleasing dish perfect for busy weeknights. With ingredients like cooked chicken, egg noodles, cream of chicken soup, and cheese, this casserole is quick to make and full of flavor. Baked to golden perfection, it's a one-dish meal everyone will love.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Diabetic
Ingredients
- Cooked chicken, shredded
- Egg noodles
- Cream of chicken soup
- Milk
- Cheddar cheese, shredded
- Frozen peas and carrots
- Onion powder
- Garlic powder
- Salt and pepper
- Breadcrumbs (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook egg noodles according to package instructions; drain.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, noodles, cream of chicken soup, milk, shredded cheese, peas, carrots, and seasonings.
- Transfer mixture to a greased casserole dish. Top with breadcrumbs if desired.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden and bubbly. Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute cream of mushroom soup or add other vegetables like green beans or broccoli.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 850mg
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