Created on December 3rd, 2025 at 10:48 am
A hearty, satisfying comfort food classic
Filled with familiar flavors and fulfilling textures, Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole is a staple that warms both the heart and stomach. This dish combines tender chicken, comforting noodles, and a creamy sauce, all baked to perfection. The golden-brown top and bubbling edges add an inviting warmth that fills the kitchen as it cooks, creating a delightful aroma that signals a meal ready for sharing. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy gathering, this casserole delivers a satisfying experience that reminds us of home-cooked simplicity.
What makes this recipe stand out is its versatility. You can adapt the ingredients according to your pantry, making it a practical choice for everyday cooking. The velvety sauce, often infused with a hint of herbs, seamlessly melds into the chicken and noodles, offering layers of flavor in every bite. Each serving is creamy and rich, yet it maintains a lightness that keeps you coming back for more. It’s the kind of dish that tastes just as wonderful on the second day, making it perfect for leftovers or meal prep.
Why This Recipe Works
This Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole proves to be a comforting favorite for many reasons. The combination of chicken, noodles, and the creamy sauce creates a wonderful balance of flavors and textures. The chicken is tender while the noodles provide a satisfying chew, and the creamy sauce ensures that each element is beautifully unified. This dish is straightforward, allowing even novice cooks to shine in the kitchen.
The simplicity of this recipe is also one of its greatest strengths. With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, you can easily put it together and let the oven do the work. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. When packed as leftovers, each bite tastes just as delightful, making it a convenient option for lunches or quick dinners later in the week. Pair it with a green salad for a complete meal that’s as fulfilling as it is comforting.
Time Breakdown
This recipe is designed for those who appreciate quick and easy cooking. It comes together rapidly, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal. Perfect for busy days or impromptu family dinners, the majority of your time is spent prepping or baking, not slaving away at the stove.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients List
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 12 oz (≈340 g) egg noodles
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, and corn)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional: fresh chives or parsley for garnish
Kitchen Tools
This recipe requires few basic tools, making the cooking process easy and stress-free. You’ll find that these essential items simplify both preparation and cleanup.
- Large pot for cooking noodles
- Mixing bowl
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Spoon or spatula for mixing
- Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-Step Instructions
Begin by cooking the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain them and set aside. This will ensure the noodles retain their texture once combined with the creamy sauce.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and chicken broth. Mix until well blended. This mixture will form the base of your casserole, creating a rich, creamy texture.”
Stir in the cooked noodles and frozen mixed vegetables, then season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Combine everything thoroughly so that each component is evenly coated with the sauce, ensuring a well-balanced flavor.
Transfer the casserole mixture into the greased baking dish. Spread it evenly and smooth the top with a spatula. This helps to ensure even baking and prevents any sections from drying out.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. The cheese adds a wonderful flavor and will create a deliciously bubbly crust as it bakes.
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly. The aroma will fill your kitchen, drawing everyone to the table as it nears readiness.
Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh chives or parsley if desired for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Pro Tips
- To save time, use rotisserie chicken; it adds great flavor and shaves off cooking time.
- A combination of cheese can add depth; try mixing in mozzarella or pepper jack for a bolder taste.
- Feel free to add or substitute your favorite vegetables, such as broccoli or bell peppers, for added nutrition and variety.
- This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
Simple Comfort, Big Flavor
Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole is a reminder that comforting meals can be uncomplicated. The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and pasta creates a satisfying dish that evokes warmth and nostalgia. It fits seamlessly into any weeknight routine, delivering both flavor and comfort without unnecessary effort. This recipe achieves that delightful balance, proving that good food does not have to be complicated.
What to Serve With Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole
Consider pairing your casserole with a simple side salad to bring a fresh contrast to the creamy and hearty dish. A crisp green salad, tossed with vinaigrette, adds a refreshing crunch that complements the casserole’s flavors. You might also enjoy serving crusty bread alongside it; a slice of warm baguette soaks up any leftover sauce and offers a delightful texture contrast.
For a comforting finish, a light fruit salad can enhance the meal. Its sweetness balances the richness of the casserole while offering a bright, colorful contrast to your plate. Together, these sides elevate the meal without detracting from the casserole’s comforting qualities. Each pairing highlights the flavors of the Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole while creating a complete, satisfying dining experience.
Nutrition Table
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Carbohydrates | 35 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 3 g |
| Sodium | 800 mg |
Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.
Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 12 oz egg noodles approximately 340 g
- 1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, and corn)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- fresh chives or parsley for garnish optional
Instructions
Preparation
- Begin by cooking the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain them and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and chicken broth. Mix until well blended.
- Stir in the cooked noodles and frozen mixed vegetables, then season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Combine everything thoroughly.
- Transfer the casserole mixture into the greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh chives or parsley if desired.
Notes
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