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. Itโs a great way to use canned chicken for a quick meal that’s both satisfying and family-friendly.
Ingredients
Scale
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 350ยฐF (175ยฐC) 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.
