Chicken Noodle Casserole
A quintessential Midwest comfort food, this heartwarming and creamy baked dish features tender chicken, soft egg noodles, and sweet peas enveloped in a rich, savory sauce. Topped with a golden, buttery breadcrumb crust, it's the perfect cozy meal for a family dinner or a potluck.
For 6 servings
9 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C)
- a.Lightly grease a 9x13 inch (or 3-quart) baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- 2
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil
- a.Add the egg noodles and cook for 2 minutes less than the package directions, until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- 3
Step 3
- a.While the noodles are cooking, melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until softened and translucent.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Stir in the condensed cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and sour cream until the mixture is smooth. Add the garlic powder, dried thyme, 1/2 tsp kosher salt, and black pepper. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 2-3 minutes.
- 5
Remove the skillet from the heat
- a.Gently fold in the drained noodles, shredded chicken, and frozen peas until everything is evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
- 6
Step 6
- a.Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it into an even layer.
- 7
In a small bowl, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter
- a.Add the panko breadcrumbs and toss until they are fully coated. Sprinkle the buttery breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the casserole.
- 8
Step 8
- a.Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the topping is golden brown and crisp.
- 9
Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving
- a.This allows the sauce to set and thicken. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For a shortcut, use a store-bought rotisserie chicken. You'll need about 3 cups of shredded meat.
- 2Undercooking the noodles is key. They will absorb liquid from the sauce and finish cooking in the oven, preventing them from becoming mushy.
- 3Letting the casserole rest after baking is crucial. It allows the creamy sauce to thicken, making it easier to serve clean portions.
- 4For extra flavor, add 8 ounces of sautéed sliced mushrooms along with the onions and celery.
- 5Crushed Ritz crackers or crispy fried onions make a delicious and classic alternative to panko breadcrumbs for the topping.
Adapt it for your goals.
Cheesy Casserole
Stir 1.5 cups of shredded sharp cheddar or Colby cheese into the sauce along with the chicken and noodles for an extra rich and cheesy dish.
Vegetable LoadedVegetable-Loaded
Add 1 cup of a frozen mixed vegetable blend (like carrots, corn, and green beans) along with the peas for more color and nutrients.
Spicy KickSpicy Kick
Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the cream sauce for a gentle background heat.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Protein
The chicken in this casserole provides high-quality protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle mass, and maintaining a healthy immune system.
Provides Sustained Energy
The carbohydrates from the egg noodles offer a significant source of energy, helping to fuel your body and brain throughout the day.
Contains Essential Vitamins
Vegetables like peas, onions, and celery contribute important vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin K, Vitamin C, and dietary fiber, which supports digestive health.
Frequently asked questions
A typical serving of this Chicken Noodle Casserole contains approximately 640-680 calories, depending on the specific ingredients used, such as full-fat vs. low-fat dairy.