Name: Chicken Noodle Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz egg noodles; 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup; 1 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup milk; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1 cup mixed vegetables (optional – peas, carrots, corn); 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup crushed crackers or breadcrumbs; 2 tbsp butter, melted

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

This Chicken Noodle Casserole is the kind of comfort food I turn to when I want something warm, creamy, and family-friendly. It’s packed with tender chicken, hearty egg noodles, and a rich, flavorful sauce—all finished with a buttery, golden topping. Whether I’m feeding a crowd or just craving something nostalgic, this one-pan classic always hits the spot.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this casserole because it checks all the boxes: it’s cozy, satisfying, and incredibly easy to make. I can throw it together with pantry staples and leftover chicken, and it’s endlessly customizable. Whether I stick to the basics or toss in some extra veggies, this dish always comes out creamy and delicious. It also reheats like a dream, which means I get to enjoy it for days. Chicken Noodle Casserole

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Egg noodles
Cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
Cream of chicken soup
Sour cream
Milk
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Mixed vegetables (optional—like peas, carrots, or corn)
Shredded cheddar cheese
Crushed crackers or breadcrumbs (for topping)
Butter (for topping)

Directions

I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
I cook the egg noodles according to the package directions, then drain and set them aside.
In a large bowl, I mix the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth.
I stir in the cooked noodles, chicken, and any optional vegetables, making sure everything is evenly coated in the sauce.
I pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish and spread it out evenly.
In a small bowl, I mix the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter. I sprinkle this mixture over the top of the casserole.
I bake the casserole for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the edges are bubbling.
I let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set slightly.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6–8
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

Protein swaps: I like using leftover turkey, rotisserie chicken, or even cooked ground beef or sausage.
Vegetarian version: I substitute the chicken with mushrooms or plant-based protein and use cream of mushroom soup.
Flavor boost: I add a sprinkle of paprika, dried thyme, or Italian seasoning to the sauce.
Extra cheesy: I mix in mozzarella or parmesan with the cheddar for more richness.
Gluten-free: I swap the noodles and topping for gluten-free alternatives.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: I reheat individual servings in the microwave, or warm the full dish in the oven at 350°F until hot.
Freezing: I assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish (without baking), then freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, I thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, I often assemble it earlier in the day, cover it, and refrigerate until I’m ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the bake time if it’s going in cold.

What’s the best chicken to use?

I like using shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience, but any cooked and chopped chicken works great—boiled, roasted, or leftover grilled.

Can I use different noodles?

Definitely. While egg noodles are traditional, I’ve also used rotini, penne, or even gluten-free pasta with good results.

How do I keep the topping crispy?

I make sure to bake it uncovered so the topping gets nice and golden. If it starts to brown too quickly, I loosely tent it with foil for the last few minutes.

Can I add more vegetables?

Yes! I sometimes mix in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli. Just make sure to cook or steam firmer vegetables before adding.

Conclusion

This Chicken Noodle Casserole is the definition of classic comfort food—easy to make, filling, and full of nostalgic flavors. Whether I’m preparing it for a weeknight dinner, bringing it to a potluck, or making a freezer-friendly meal, it always delivers. Creamy, cheesy, and topped with a satisfying crunch, it’s a dish I find myself making again and again.