If you’re craving a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that combines creamy textures, cheesy goodness, and tender chicken all in one warm, satisfying meal, look no further. This Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe is exactly what your dinner rotation has been missing. It brings together simple ingredients in a way that’s rich, cozy, and packed with flavor, making it an instant favorite for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward yet essential ingredients, each adding its own personality to the dish. From the savory chicken to the melty cheeses and the cozy cream sauce, every element plays a crucial role in building the perfect texture and inviting flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced: Use leftover roasted chicken or rotisserie for tender, flavorful protein.
- 1 (12 oz) package egg noodles: Classic comfort pasta with a soft bite that holds sauce beautifully.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: Adds creamy, savory depth without extra fuss.
- 1 cup sour cream: Brings tangy creaminess that balances the cheeses and soup.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp and melty, essential for that cheesy punch.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Offers stretchy, gooey texture that everyone loves.
- 1/2 cup milk: Smooths out the sauce and keeps it luscious.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a warm, aromatic lift to the seasoning.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Delivers subtle savory sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors beautifully.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Just enough to add a mild kick.
- 1/2 cup crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs (optional): These create a delightfully crispy, golden topping.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (if using chips for topping): Helps the topping brown and adds rich flavor.
How to Make Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pasta
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or a light coating of butter to ensure your casserole doesn’t stick. Meanwhile, cook the egg noodles according to the package directions until they are tender but still firm to the bite. Drain and set aside, as these noodles will soak up the delicious sauce perfectly during baking.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Cheese Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until the mixture is smooth and well-blended. This creamy, cheesy sauce is truly the heart of the casserole, bringing luscious flavor and that irresistible gooey texture everyone loves.
Step 3: Combine Chicken and Noodles with Sauce
Add your cooked chicken and drained noodles to the bowl of sauce. Gently fold all the ingredients together until the chicken and noodles are evenly coated with the cheesy mixture. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to maintain the noodles’ shape and texture without breaking them down too much.
Step 4: Assemble and Add Toppings
Spread the cheesy chicken and noodle mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese all over the top for an extra layer of melty goodness. If you’re opting for the crispy topping, mix crushed potato chips with melted butter and scatter them on top of the cheese. Breadcrumbs can be used as a classic alternative for a slightly different crunch.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Pop the casserole into your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until it’s bubbling hot and the topping is golden and crispy. The aroma that fills your kitchen at this point is pure comfort food magic!
Step 6: Let It Rest Before Serving
Once out of the oven, allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes. This resting time helps everything settle, making it easier to serve and enhancing the flavor. Now you’re ready to dig into your incredible Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe!
How to Serve Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation and add a fresh twist, sprinkle finely chopped fresh parsley or chives over the finished casserole. A light dusting of paprika can also add a subtle color pop. These little touches bring brightness and subtle flavor contrast to the rich, cheesy dish.
Side Dishes
Since this casserole is hearty and filling, pairing it with lighter sides works wonderfully. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, steamed green beans, or roasted asparagus all complement the savory richness without overwhelming the palate. Crisp breadsticks or garlic toast also make a lovely accompaniment for soaking up any extra sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving guests or looking to personalize this dish, try layering the casserole in individual ramekins for single servings. Alternatively, garnish each serving with a dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors unexpectedly. These touches can turn a cozy family meal into a special occasion experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe is just as delightful the next day! Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors develop further, making reheated portions even more comforting.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully. To freeze, assemble the dish but do not bake. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or use a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed, adding a few extra minutes to ensure it’s heated through.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave until hot and bubbly, or warm the entire casserole in a 350°F oven covered with foil for about 15–20 minutes to keep it moist. Remove the foil for the last few minutes to crisp up the cheesy topping again. Either way, it’s a quick and delicious way to enjoy leftovers without losing that fresh-baked charm.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for the Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe?
Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional and hold the sauce well, you can substitute with rotini, penne, or even shells depending on what you have on hand. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure al dente texture.
Is it possible to make this casserole dairy-free or lower in fat?
Yes, you can swap the cream of chicken soup and cheeses for dairy-free alternatives such as coconut milk-based soups and vegan cheeses. Using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream is another way to cut fat while keeping creaminess. Just keep in mind these swaps will slightly alter the flavor and texture.
Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Definitely! Fold in cooked broccoli florets, peas, mushrooms, or diced bell peppers before baking for added nutrition and color. Just make sure to lightly steam or sauté any raw veggies first so they cook through evenly.
How do I know when the casserole is done baking?
Look for bubbly sauce around the edges and a golden brown, crisp top. The internal temperature should be about 165°F to ensure it’s heated all the way through. If you don’t have a thermometer, 25 to 30 minutes at 350°F works well every time.
Can I make this recipe ahead and bake it later?
Yes! You can prepare the entire casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it perfect for busy days or entertaining when you want to save time in the kitchen.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited as I am to bring this Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe to your table. It’s a tried and true comfort food classic, bursting with cheesy, creamy, and savory flavors that feel like a warm hug. Whether you’re feeding family, friends, or just treating yourself, this casserole is a delicious, fuss-free way to enjoy a hearty meal that’s guaranteed to become a household favorite. Give it a try and watch it disappear before your eyes!
Print
Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A comforting and hearty Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole combining tender cooked chicken, creamy cheese sauce, and tender egg noodles topped with a crispy, buttery layer of potato chips or breadcrumbs. Perfect for an easy family dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken and Pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 (12 oz) package egg noodles (or your favorite pasta)
Cheese Sauce
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Topping (Optional)
- 1/2 cup crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (if using chips for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Cook Noodles: Boil the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked shredded or diced chicken along with the drained egg noodles to the cheese sauce mixture. Gently fold everything together ensuring the noodles and chicken are evenly coated with the cheese sauce.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly in a single layer to ensure even baking.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese uniformly over the top of the casserole.
- Prepare Crispy Topping (Optional): If desired, mix the crushed potato chips with melted butter and sprinkle this crispy topping over the cheese layer. Breadcrumbs may be used as an alternative topping.
- Bake: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown, bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld and prevent burning.
Notes
- For a crunchier topping, use potato chips mixed with melted butter instead of breadcrumbs.
- Substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.
- Use cooked rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Gluten-free pasta can be used to make this casserole gluten-free.
