Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe

Name: Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3-4 boneless skinless chicken breasts; Wide egg noodles; Cream of chicken soup; Shredded cheddar cheese; Low-sodium chicken broth; Optional vegetables (peas, carrots)

Published: February 7, 2025

by Emma Taylor

Why You’ll Love This chicken noodle casserole

Quick and Easy Preparation: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, you can whip up this delicious dish in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Family-Friendly Meal: This recipe pleases both kids and adults alike, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or potlucks.
Versatile Recipe: Feel free to customize the ingredients! You can easily swap in vegetables or use leftover rotisserie chicken for even quicker prep.

Recipe preparation

Ingredients for chicken noodle casserole

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

Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts are ideal; feel free to adjust based on how many servings you need.
Egg Noodles: Wide egg noodles work best; they absorb the sauce beautifully while holding their shape during baking.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This acts as the base for our creamy sauce—make sure to choose low-sodium versions if you’re watching your salt intake.
Shredded Cheese: Cheddar cheese adds a wonderful flavor; consider using a mix of cheeses for extra depth.

For the Sauce:

Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while enhancing the flavor of the dish.
Vegetables (optional): Peas and carrots are great additions; they provide color and nutrition without overpowering 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:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a large baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: 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 and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Chicken

In a skillet over medium heat, cook diced boneless skinless chicken breasts until they are golden brown and cooked through—approximately 7-10 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine cooked noodles, cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, shredded cheese, and any optional vegetables. Stir until everything is well coated.

Step 5: Transfer Mixture

Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish evenly spread it out with a spatula.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in preheated oven for about 30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top. For an extra crispy topping, broil for an additional few minutes.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

Serving and storing

Tips and Tricks

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

Use Leftovers Wisely: Rotisserie or leftover roast chicken saves time without sacrificing flavor—perfect for busy nights!
Make Ahead Option: Assemble your casserole ahead of time; cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.
Add Fresh Herbs: Consider garnishing with fresh parsley or thyme after baking for added freshness and visual appeal.

Mistakes to avoid

Using the wrong type of chicken: When making chicken noodle casserole, it’s essential to select the right type of chicken. Many people opt for pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken, which can work, but using raw chicken allows for better flavor infusion during cooking. Ensure that you dice the chicken into even pieces for uniform cooking. If not cooked properly, some pieces may remain undercooked while others become dry. Always check that your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety and optimal taste.
Overcooking the noodles: A common mistake is overcooking the noodles before adding them to the casserole. Pre-cooking them until they are fully soft can lead to mushy noodles once baked. Instead, cook them just until al dente, as they will continue to soften while baking in the casserole. This helps maintain the perfect texture and prevents your dish from becoming a soggy mess.
Ignoring seasoning: Seasoning is crucial in any casserole, especially with chicken noodle casserole. Some cooks make the mistake of under-seasoning their ingredients. Always taste your mixture before baking and adjust seasoning accordingly. A lack of salt, pepper, and herbs can lead to a bland dish that doesn’t showcase the flavors you intended. Experiment with garlic powder, onion powder, or fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for an extra flavor boost.

Serving Suggestions

This chicken noodle casserole is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

A fresh garden salad: A crisp salad adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy casserole, enhancing your meal’s balance.
Garlic bread: The buttery, garlicky flavor of garlic bread complements the richness of the chicken noodle casserole perfectly.
Steamed vegetables: Bright, colorful veggies like broccoli or carrots can provide an excellent nutritional boost and make your plate visually appealing.

FAQs

What ingredients are needed for chicken noodle casserole?

To prepare a delightful chicken noodle casserole, you will need several key ingredients. Start with cooked chicken, which could be shredded or cubed. You’ll also need egg noodles, cream of chicken soup for that rich base, and some milk to achieve the desired consistency. Vegetables like peas and carrots add color and flavor. Season with salt, pepper, and perhaps some onion or garlic powder for extra taste. For a crispy topping, breadcrumbs or crushed crackers work nicely. This combination creates a hearty dish perfect for family dinners.

Can I make chicken noodle casserole in advance?

Yes! One of the best aspects of chicken noodle casserole is its make-ahead capability. Prepare the casserole up to the baking stage, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate. You can store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to eat, simply remove it from the refrigerator and allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it into the oven. This way, you save time on busy days while still serving a delicious homemade meal.

Is chicken noodle casserole healthy?

While chicken noodle casserole can be comforting and filling, its healthiness largely depends on the ingredients used. Opting for whole-grain noodles instead of regular egg noodles can increase fiber content. Using low-fat cream of chicken soup or making your own can reduce calories and fat levels significantly. Adding plenty of vegetables not only boosts nutrition but also enhances flavor. Balancing portions is key; enjoy this dish as part of a diverse diet for optimal health benefits.

How do I store leftovers of chicken noodle casserole?

Storing leftovers from your chicken noodle casserole is easy! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to extend its shelf life further, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe containers or bags; it should last up to three months when frozen. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen and warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Conclusion for chicken noodle casserole

In conclusion, chicken noodle casserole is not only a comforting dish but also quite adaptable to various tastes and dietary needs. With simple ingredients like cooked chicken, egg noodles, cream soup, and vegetables, you can create a wholesome meal that appeals to everyone at your table.

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📖 Recipe Card