Chicken casserole with noodles

Ingredients

- 8 +

• 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced into bite-sized pieces
• 8 ounces wide egg noodles, cooked according to package instructions until just al dente
• 2 cups cream of chicken soup, homemade or canned
• 1 cup sour cream, for creamy texture and tangy flavor
• 1 cup frozen peas, thawed and drained of excess moisture
• 1 cup shredded carrots, for subtle sweetness and added nutrition
• 1/2 cup diced onion, sauted until translucent for depth of flavor
• 2 cloves garlic, minced for a pungent aromatic base
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme, for earthy undertones
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika, for a hint of smokiness and color
• Salt and pepper to taste, for seasoning balance
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, for a cheesy crust on top
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs, mixed with melted butter for a crispy topping

Instructions

1

Preheat your oven to 375F and lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray or butter

Done!

2

In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked noodles, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, thawed peas, shredded carrots, sauted onion, minced garlic, dried thyme, paprika, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper

Done!

3

Mix the ingredients until they are evenly distributed, ensuring that every bite will have a balance of flavors and textures

Done!

4

Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula

Done!

5

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the casserole, followed by the panko breadcrumbs tossed in melted butter for a golden, crunchy topping

Done!

6

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-35 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the breadcrumbs are golden brown

Done!

Kitchen Tools

• 9x13 inch baking dish for even baking and easy serving
• Large mixing bowl for combining all ingredients thoroughly
• Saut pan for cooking the onions and garlic
• Cheese grater for freshly shredded cheese, which melts better than pre-shredded

Chef's Tips

For best results, slightly undercook the noodles as they will continue to absorb liquid and soften in the oven

Let the casserole sit for 10 minutes after baking to allow the layers to set, making it easier to serve

Using a glass baking dish can help you monitor the browning of the bottom of the casserole

Troubleshooting

If the casserole is too dry after baking, stir in a little extra soup or a splash of milk before serving

To prevent the topping from browning too quickly, tent the baking dish with aluminum foil during the last 10 minutes of cooking

Recipe Variations

Add a splash of dry white wine to the sauted onions and garlic for a gourmet twist

Mix in cooked bacon or pancetta for a smoky, savory flavor profile

Incorporate different vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for variety and color

Healthy Alternatives

Swap out the cream of chicken soup for a homemade version using low-sodium chicken stock and less heavy cream

Opt for Greek yogurt in place of sour cream for a protein-packed, lower-fat alternative

Incorporate whole grain noodles for added fiber and nutrients

Serving Suggestions

Serve the chicken noodle casserole with a side of steamed broccoli or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal

Pair with a slice of crusty whole-grain bread to soak up all the delicious flavors

Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a burst of color and a hint of freshness

Nutrition Facts

450

Calories

28g

Protein

40g

Carbs

20g

Fat

4g

Fiber

5g

Sugar

800mg

Sodium

110mg

Cholesterol

Dietary Info

Family-friendly for a comforting and satisfying dinner

Budget-conscious for those looking to save on groceries

Customizable for various dietary needs such as gluten-free, dairy-free, or low-carb by making appropriate ingredient substitutions

Garnish Ideas

Sprinkle with additional fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for an aromatic finish

Add a few grinds of black pepper for a touch of heat and visual appeal

Storage

Cover and refrigerate leftover casserole for up to 4 days, ensuring it's cooled to room temperature before storing

Freeze the casserole before baking for a make-ahead meal; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed

Leftover Ideas

Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until heated through

Transform leftovers into a new meal by stirring in additional chicken broth to create a hearty soup

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the noodles before baking, which can lead to a mushy texture in the final dish

Not properly thawing and draining frozen vegetables, which can introduce excess water into the casserole

Failing to season the casserole adequately, resulting in a bland taste

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds fantastic flavor to the casserole.

How can I make this casserole gluten-free?

Use gluten-free noodles and substitute the cream of chicken soup with a gluten-free alternative.

Is it necessary to cook the noodles before assembling the casserole?

Yes, cooking the noodles beforehand ensures they will be tender by the time the casserole is done baking.

Can I prepare this casserole in advance?

Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I freeze this chicken noodle casserole after baking?

Yes, allow the casserole to cool completely before wrapping and freezing for up to 2 months.

Can I use low-fat ingredients to lighten up this recipe?

Certainly! Using low-fat sour cream and cheese, along with reduced-sodium soup, can lighten the recipe.

Reviews

Jessica Q.

Mar 17, 2026

This chicken noodle casserole was a huge hit at our family gathering. The blend of flavors was spot on!

Daniel R.

Mar 16, 2026

A classic comfort food dish that's perfect for a cozy night in. I added a bit more cheese because why not?

Olivia T.

Feb 26, 2026

Super easy to make and very filling. My kids didn't even realize they were eating veggies!

Ethan U.

Mar 19, 2026

I've made this recipe several times now, and it's always a crowd-pleaser. The leftovers are just as good too.

Ava V.

Mar 7, 2026

This casserole is a great base recipe. I've added mushrooms and a hint of cayenne for an extra kick.