Chicken Noodle Casserole
🍗 Classic Chicken Noodle Casserole
Few dishes say “comfort food” quite like a creamy, baked chicken noodle casserole. It’s cozy, filling, and ideal for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. Featuring tender chicken, hearty noodles, and a rich, cheesy sauce, this dish is guaranteed to bring everyone to the table.
🧾 Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Wide egg noodles | 12 oz (uncooked) |
| Cooked chicken (shredded) | 3 cups |
| Cream of chicken soup | 2 cans (10.5 oz each) |
| Sour cream | 1 cup |
| Milk | 1/2 cup |
| Frozen peas and carrots | 1 1/2 cups |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 2 cups (divided) |
| Garlic powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Onion powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Crushed Ritz crackers | 1 cup |
| Melted butter | 3 tablespoons |
| Fresh parsley (optional) | For garnish |
👨‍🍳 How to Make It
1. Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter or a non-stick spray.
2. Boil the Noodles
Cook the egg noodles in salted water according to the package instructions, but stop just shy of fully done—they’ll continue cooking in the oven. Drain and set aside.
3. Whip Up the Creamy Base
In a large bowl, whisk together:
- Cream of chicken soup
- Sour cream
- Milk
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Salt and black pepper
Mix until smooth and creamy.
4. Add Chicken, Veggies & Cheese
To the bowl, add:
- Shredded cooked chicken
- Frozen peas and carrots (no need to thaw)
- 1 1/2 cups of cheddar cheese
- Cooked noodles
Stir gently until everything is evenly combined and coated in the sauce.
5. Build the Casserole
Spread the noodle and chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
6. Make the Crispy Topping
In a small bowl, stir together the crushed Ritz crackers and melted butter. Evenly distribute the buttery crumbs over the casserole for a crunchy, golden finish.
7. Bake Until Bubbling
Bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling at the edges. Allow it to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
🟢 Optional Garnish: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top just before serving for a fresh pop of color.
