Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole: A Comforting Family Favorite 🧀🍗🍜
Nothing says comfort food like a warm, bubbling Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole fresh from the oven. This classic dish combines tender chicken, creamy cheese sauce, and hearty egg noodles for the ultimate family-friendly meal. The golden-brown cheese crust gives way to a rich, velvety interior that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Perfect for busy weeknights or potluck gatherings, this chicken noodle casserole recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. The combination of melty cheddar, savory chicken, and perfectly cooked noodles creates a symphony of textures and tastes that satisfies both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this dish is guaranteed to become a regular in your dinner rotation.
Quick Recipe Highlights
- Flavor Profile: Savory chicken meets rich, creamy cheese with subtle herb notes for a perfectly balanced bite.
- Texture: Tender noodles and juicy chicken enveloped in a velvety cheese sauce with a crispy golden topping.
- Aroma: The comforting scent of melted cheese and roasted chicken fills your kitchen as it bakes.
- Visual Appeal: Golden-brown cheese crust with flecks of green herbs makes for an Instagram-worthy presentation.
- Skill Level Needed: Beginner-friendly with simple techniques anyone can master.
- Special Equipment: Just a 9×13 baking dish and basic kitchen tools.
The Recipe
Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole
Serves: 6
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Large pot for boiling noodles
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 baking dish.
- Cook egg noodles according to package directions until al dente, then drain.
- In a large bowl, mix together cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, and seasonings.
- Add cooked noodles, chicken, and 1 1/2 cups cheese to the sauce mixture. Stir until well combined.
- Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle remaining 1/2 cup cheese over the top.
- Combine breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese layer.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Let stand 5 minutes before serving.
Recipe Notes
- For extra flavor, add 1/2 cup sautéed mushrooms or peas to the mixture.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To make ahead, assemble the casserole and refrigerate overnight before baking.
