If you are craving a comforting, satisfying dish that comes together with minimal effort yet delivers maximum flavor, this Super Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a delightful medley of tender chicken, creamy cheesy sauce, and perfectly cooked noodles baked to golden perfection. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this casserole feels like a warm hug in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward, pantry-friendly, and each plays an important role in balancing creamy richness, hearty texture, and a touch of freshness. It’s a beautiful blend that makes assembling this Super Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe such a breeze.
- 2 cans chunk chicken breast, drained: A quick shortcut that provides tender protein without extra prep; rotisserie chicken works perfectly.
- 2 cans cream of chicken soup: This creamy base infuses the casserole with comforting flavor and binding moisture.
- 1 cup mayo: Adds richness and a velvety texture to the sauce, keeping everything luscious.
- 1 cup milk: Lightens the sauce just enough so it’s not too thick or heavy.
- 1/2 finely diced onion (optional): Brings a mild, savory depth, though dried onion flakes can do the trick too.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts throughout the casserole, providing sharpness and gooey goodness.
- 1 1/2 cups frozen peas and carrots: A colorful, sweet veggie mix that adds a touch of freshness and texture.
- 1 package egg noodles, cooked and drained (12 ounces): The hearty base that soaks up all the creamy flavors but stays tender.
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs: For a crunchy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior.
- 1/2 cup melted salted butter: Helps achieve that perfect golden, crispy crust on top.
How to Make Super Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Creamy Base
Start by combining the drained chunk chicken, cream of chicken soup, mayo, and milk in a large bowl. This mixture forms the luscious sauce that will hold the casserole together. If you like, add the finely diced onion or dried onion flakes here for extra flavor depth. Stir everything until smooth and well incorporated.
Step 2: Add Cheese and Vegetables
Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese along with the frozen peas and carrots. The cheese adds a rich, savory flavor while the veggies bring a natural sweetness and some welcome color contrast. Make sure the frozen veggies are evenly distributed but do not thaw them completely to avoid excess moisture.
Step 3: Combine with Noodles
Gently mix in the cooked and drained egg noodles. These noodles act like little flavor sponges, soaking up the delicious creamy sauce while maintaining their tender bite, so be sure not to overmix and break them down.
Step 4: Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with the melted salted butter. This mixture will create a wonderful crunchy, buttery crust on top that perfectly balances the creamy filling underneath.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Transfer the chicken noodle mixture into a greased casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the buttery panko mixture evenly over the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 to 35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
How to Serve Super Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To brighten this hearty casserole, fresh chopped parsley or green onions make perfect garnishes. Their fresh, slightly sharp notes cut through the rich creaminess without overpowering the dish. For an extra touch, a light sprinkle of paprika can add a lovely color and a subtle smoky hint.
Side Dishes
Because this casserole is so filling and saucy, light and crisp side dishes complement it well. Consider a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some steamed broccoli with a squeeze of lemon. These sides will balance the richness and make your meal more rounded.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this casserole in individual ramekins for a personal touch at dinner parties or family gatherings. You can also layer it with extra cheese on top or add a drizzle of hot sauce or honey mustard for those who like a flavor kick. The versatility here keeps this classic recipe exciting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your delicious Super Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and tasty for up to 3-4 days. This makes it an ideal dish for meal prepping or saving for an easy lunch the next day.
Freezing
If you want to make this casserole well in advance, it freezes beautifully. Assemble the casserole but don’t bake it, then cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes as needed.
Reheating
To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave and heat until warmed through, about 2-3 minutes depending on the portion size. For larger amounts, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven covered with foil to maintain moisture, typically around 20 minutes. The topping may not be quite as crispy but the flavors remain just as comforting.
FAQs
Can I use fresh chicken instead of canned chicken?
Absolutely! You can use about 3 cups of diced rotisserie chicken or cooked, shredded chicken breast. Just be sure it’s fully cooked before adding to the casserole. This will boost flavor and texture but keep the recipe just as simple.
What if I don’t have cream of chicken soup?
If you don’t have cream of chicken soup on hand, you can make a quick homemade white sauce with butter, flour, milk, and chicken broth seasoned with salt and pepper. While it’s a bit more involved, it keeps the casserole creamy and flavorful.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, swap the chicken for cooked mushrooms or a plant-based chicken substitute and use cream of mushroom soup or a similar vegetarian cream soup. The peas, carrots, cheesy sauce, and noodles still create a hearty casserole everyone will enjoy.
Is it okay to use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?
Panko breadcrumbs give the best crunch because of their light and flaky texture, but regular breadcrumbs will work in a pinch. The topping might be a little denser, but you’ll still get that pleasant crispy contrast.
How can I make this casserole healthier?
To lighten it up, try using reduced-fat mayonnaise and cheese, low-fat or unsweetened milk, and whole wheat egg noodles. Adding extra veggies like spinach or mushrooms can also increase nutrition without sacrificing taste.
Final Thoughts
There is something so wonderfully comforting about diving into a warm, cheesy Super Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe straight from the oven. It’s the kind of dish that feels like home, no matter the day or occasion. Give this recipe a try—you may just find your new favorite weeknight meal that’s simple enough to whip up anytime but delightful enough to impress everyone at the table.
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Super Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Super Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole is a comforting and creamy dish perfect for busy weeknights. Combining tender chicken, cheesy noodles, and a crunchy breadcrumb topping, this casserole delivers hearty flavors with minimal prep and cook time. It’s a great way to use canned chicken for a quick meal that’s both satisfying and family-friendly.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cans chunk chicken breast, drained (12.5 ounces each, or about 3 cups diced rotisserie chicken)
- 2 cans cream of chicken soup (10.5 ounces each)
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 finely diced onion (optional) or 1 tablespoon dried onion flakes
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 1/2 cups frozen peas and carrots
- 1 package egg noodles, cooked and drained (12 ounces)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup melted salted butter (1 stick)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature by the time you assemble your casserole.
- Cook the Egg Noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
- Prepare the Casserole Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained chunk chicken, cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, milk, finely diced onion or dried onion flakes, shredded cheddar cheese, frozen peas and carrots, and cooked egg noodles. Stir everything together until fully combined.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
- Add Topping: In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter until the crumbs are well coated. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole for a crunchy, golden crust.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly around the edges.
- Serve: Once baked, let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set slightly for easier portioning.
Notes
- You can substitute canned chicken with fresh rotisserie chicken for a fresher flavor.
- If you prefer a creamier casserole, add an extra 1/4 cup of milk or mayonnaise.
- The frozen peas and carrots add a nice color contrast and nutrients, but you can swap vegetables based on your preference.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
