If you’re craving a comforting, hearty meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Old-Fashioned Chicken and Noodles Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It brings together tender shredded chicken, creamy soups, tender egg noodles, and a crispy, cheesy topping that bakes up golden and irresistible. Perfect for family dinners or cozy get-togethers, this casserole combines simple pantry staples to create a nostalgic dish that tastes like home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about this Old-Fashioned Chicken and Noodles Casserole Recipe is how straightforward and accessible the ingredients are, yet each plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and heartiness.
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced: This is the star protein that makes the dish filling and satisfying.
- 8 oz wide egg noodles, cooked and drained: They soak up all the creamy goodness, giving the casserole a tender, chewy bite.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: Adds rich, savory creaminess and deep chicken flavor.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup: Introduces earthiness and additional creaminess for balance.
- 1 cup sour cream: Brings tang and silky texture that brightens up the dish.
- 1/2 cup milk: Helps loosen the mixture so it bakes perfectly moist.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Delivers savory warmth without overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the flavor with subtle sweetness.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for bringing all the flavors alive.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided: Provides gooey melty richness plus a golden topping.
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (optional): Adds pops of color and a touch of sweetness.
- 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers or buttered breadcrumbs: Creates a perfectly crunchy topping.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter: Binds the topping and promotes browning.
- Chopped parsley, for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh burst of green that brightens the plate.
How to Make Old-Fashioned Chicken and Noodles Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish so your casserole won’t stick and can bake evenly. Having your oven hot and dish ready is the key to a smooth cooking process.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base
In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken and cooked egg noodles with the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and milk. Add garlic powder, onion powder, and half the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir everything together until the mixture is creamy and well combined. This mixture promises the luscious, comforting texture that makes this Old-Fashioned Chicken and Noodles Casserole Recipe so beloved.
Step 3: Add Veggies and Season
Fold in the frozen peas and carrots if you’re using them — they add a nice color contrast and a subtle sweetness that livens the dish up. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to your taste. This step is important so every bite bursts with flavor and the seasoning feels just right.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Pour your creamy chicken and noodle mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Next, sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese on top. This layering helps create that irresistible cheesy crust we’re all dreaming of.
Step 5: Prepare the Crunchy Topping
In a small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers or buttered breadcrumbs with the melted butter until fully mixed. This buttery topping added over your casserole will bake into a golden crust that contrasts beautifully with the creamy base below.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Look for bubbling edges and a lightly browned, crunchy topping. The aroma that fills your kitchen now will have you counting down the minutes!
Step 7: Garnish and Cool
Once baked, remove your casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes to set up. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top if you like, adding freshness and a hint of color before serving.
How to Serve Old-Fashioned Chicken and Noodles Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of chopped parsley or a few fresh herbs brightens up this casserole and gives it a lovely, fresh appearance. Even a little cracked black pepper on top can make it look inviting and smell amazing right before serving.
Side Dishes
This casserole is quite rich and filling, so pairing it with light sides like a crisp green salad, steamed green beans, or roasted asparagus balances the meal perfectly. A tangy coleslaw also complements the creamy texture splendidly.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress guests? Serve generous scoops in individual ramekins topped with extra cheese and breadcrumbs broiled for a minute to get an ultra-crisp crust. Or plate it alongside a dollop of cranberry sauce for a touch of sweetness and color.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Old-Fashioned Chicken and Noodles Casserole Recipe keeps wonderfully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. As flavors meld overnight, it often tastes even better the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze this casserole before baking by assembling it in a freezer-safe dish, tightly wrapping it in foil and plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 3 months and bake from frozen, adding 10-15 minutes to the baking time and covering with foil initially to prevent over-browning.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F until warmed through and bubbly, usually about 20 minutes. Alternatively, microwave individual portions on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway to heat evenly. Adding a splash of milk before reheating can help retain creaminess.
FAQs
Can I use a rotisserie chicken for this casserole?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken makes this recipe even easier and adds wonderful flavor from the already seasoned meat. Just shred it and you’re ready to go.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
If you’re not a fan of mushroom soup, you can substitute with an equal amount of cream of celery or cream of chicken soup for a slightly different but still delicious flavor.
Is it okay to use fresh vegetables instead of frozen peas and carrots?
Yes, fresh peas and carrots can work well. Just make sure to lightly steam or sauté them first so they soften enough during baking. This prevents crunchiness in the finished casserole.
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Definitely! Replace the cooked chicken with cooked mushrooms, tofu, or a plant-based chicken substitute, and use vegetable-based creamy soups. This turns the dish into a delicious vegetarian comfort food.
What cheese works best if I don’t have cheddar?
Sharp cheddar is classic, but you can also try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses to get that gooey, melty effect with a slightly different flavor profile.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about the Old-Fashioned Chicken and Noodles Casserole Recipe that makes it a classic for a reason. It’s a timeless dish that brings warmth, nostalgia, and hearty satisfaction in every bite. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking to create a cozy meal for friends, this casserole will quickly become a favorite in your collection. So go ahead and give it a try—you might just discover your new go-to comfort food!
Print
Old-Fashioned Chicken and Noodles Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Old-Fashioned Chicken and Noodles Casserole is a comforting, creamy baked dish combining tender cooked chicken, wide egg noodles, and a rich blend of cream soups and sour cream. Enhanced with garlic and onion powders, layered with cheddar cheese, and topped with a buttery crumb crust, this classic casserole makes a hearty and satisfying meal perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 8 oz wide egg noodles, cooked and drained
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (optional)
Topping
- 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers or buttered breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside to prevent sticking.
- Mix base ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken, cooked wide egg noodles, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir well until the mixture is fully combined and creamy.
- Add vegetables and season: Fold in the frozen peas and carrots if using. Season the mixture with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences and mix gently.
- Assemble casserole: Pour the prepared mixture evenly into the greased baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top to create a cheesy layer.
- Prepare topping: In a small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers or buttered breadcrumbs with melted butter until the mixture is well blended and crumbly. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cheese layer to add a crunchy topping.
- Bake: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly, hot throughout, and the topping is golden brown.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired for a fresh finish before serving.
Notes
- Using freshly cooked chicken or leftover rotisserie chicken enhances flavor and convenience.
- Frozen peas and carrots are optional but add color, texture, and nutrition to the casserole.
- The crushed Ritz crackers topping can be substituted with buttered breadcrumbs or crushed crackers of choice for crunch.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to your preference; garlic and onion powders add nice depth to the creamy base.
- For a lactose-free version, substitute sour cream and cheese with suitable dairy-free alternatives.
