Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole

Creamy, Comforting & Perfect for Busy Nights

When you need a warm, satisfying meal that brings comfort to the table, Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole is a timeless classic. This dish combines tender egg noodles, juicy shredded chicken, creamy sauce, melted cheddar cheese, and colorful vegetables—all baked together until bubbly and golden. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like home, making it perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or make-ahead meals.

What makes this casserole especially appealing is its simplicity and flexibility. Using pantry-friendly ingredients and minimal prep time, it delivers big flavor without extra effort. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for leftovers that reheat beautifully, this recipe checks all the boxes.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Noodle Casserole

• Comfort food classic the whole family loves
• Easy to prepare with simple ingredients
• Creamy, cheesy, and hearty
• Great for meal prep and leftovers
• Customizable with different proteins or veggies

Ingredients

• 12 ounces egg noodles, cooked and drained
• 3 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
• ½ cup sour cream
• ½ cup whole milk
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup crushed butter crackers or breadcrumbs (optional)
• Melted butter, as needed

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Base

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Add Chicken, Veggies & Cheese

Stir in the shredded chicken, thawed peas and carrots, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix gently until everything is evenly coated in the sauce.

Step 4: Fold in the Noodles

Add the cooked egg noodles to the bowl and gently fold until fully incorporated, being careful not to break the noodles.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup cheddar cheese over the top.
If using crackers or breadcrumbs, toss them with melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the casserole for a crunchy topping.

Step 6: Bake

Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling around the edges and the top is lightly golden.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes slicing easier.

Tips for Best Results

• Extra creamy: Add an extra spoonful of sour cream or more cheese.
• Protein swaps: Use turkey instead of chicken, or omit meat entirely for a vegetarian version.
• Add-ins: Mushrooms, corn, or broccoli make great additions.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition Information (Per 1 Cup Serving)

• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 37g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready, adding a few extra minutes if chilled.

Can I freeze chicken noodle casserole?

Absolutely. Freeze before baking for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?

You can substitute with homemade cream sauce or cream of mushroom soup if preferred.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Very much so—its mild, creamy flavor makes it a favorite with kids.

Conclusion

Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—simple, hearty, and incredibly satisfying. With its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and tender chicken, it’s a reliable go-to recipe for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. Easy to customize and even better the next day, this casserole deserves a permanent spot in your recipe collection.

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