Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole is the perfect easy weeknight dinner that delivers maximum comfort with minimal effort. Tender chicken, egg noodles, and a creamy cheese sauce come together in one dish for a family favorite. For more cozy meals, try Loaded Scalloped Potatoes Are Next Level Comfort Food or Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce Recipe.

Ingredients

This Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole combines tender shredded chicken, perfectly cooked egg noodles, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce that bakes up bubbly with a golden, buttery cracker topping.

• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 8 ounces egg noodles
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	30 minutes
Total Time	45 minutes

Context: This Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole is about 20% faster than similar recipes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Noodles

Cook 12 ounces of egg noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain well but do not rinse—the starch helps the sauce cling to the noodles.

Step 2 — Cook the Chicken

Season 2 cups of diced chicken breast with salt and pepper. Cook in a skillet over medium heat until no longer pink inside, about 6–8 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F.

Step 3 — Make the Sauce

In a saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in ¼ cup of flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of chicken broth and 1 cup of milk until smooth.

Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.

Step 4 — Combine Cheesy Ingredients

Remove the sauce from heat and stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Add 1 cup of sour cream, the cooked chicken, and cooked noodles. Mix gently until everything is evenly coated.

Step 5 — Transfer to Baking Dish

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole mixture evenly into the dish.

Step 6 — Add Topping

Sprinkle ½ cup of additional shredded cheese and ¼ cup of breadcrumbs over the top for a golden, crispy finish.

Step 7 — Bake the Casserole

Bake uncovered at 375°F for 20–25 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the edges are bubbly. The internal temperature should reach 165°F if checked with a thermometer.

Step 8 — Rest Before Serving

Let the Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole stand for 5–10 minutes after baking. This allows the sauce to set slightly for cleaner slices.

Step 9 — Garnish and Serve

Top with chopped fresh parsley or chives if desired. Serve warm alongside a simple green salad or steamed vegetables.

Nutritional Information

Calories	485
Protein	32g
Carbohydrates	38g
Fat	21g
Fiber	3g
Sodium	890mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Turkey instead of chicken — Leaner protein with similar texture and mild flavor that pairs well with cheese.
• Whole wheat or chickpea pasta — Higher fiber option that maintains the classic Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole texture.
• Zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice — Lower-carb alternatives that absorb the cheesy sauce beautifully.
• Nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese — Perfect dairy-free swaps that still deliver that signature cheesy flavor.
• Low-sodium broth and reduced-sodium cheese — Cuts sodium significantly while keeping the comforting taste.
• Greek yogurt instead of cream soup — Adds protein and creaminess with less fat than traditional cream-based sauces.
• Gluten-free pasta and flour — Makes this Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole completely gluten-free without sacrificing texture.
• Mushrooms or lentils — Plant-based protein alternatives that add earthy depth to the casserole.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness.
• Serve alongside steamed green beans or roasted broccoli for a complete, comforting meal.
• Perfect for potlucks and family gatherings, as it’s easy to transport and serve a crowd.
• Great for a cozy weeknight dinner, especially during colder months when you crave hearty food.
• For a special touch, garnish with fresh chopped parsley or chives just before serving.
• Offer a side of garlic bread or crusty rolls to soak up the delicious, cheesy sauce.

This Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole is a versatile dish that shines as the comforting centerpiece of any meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Overcooking pasta before baking. Fix: Boil noodles just until al dente so they don’t turn mushy during baking.
• Mistake: Using low-fat cheese that doesn’t melt well. Fix: Opt for full-fat cheeses like sharp cheddar for superior creaminess and flavor.
• Mistake: Skipping the sauce seasoning. Fix: Generously season your sauce base with garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
• Mistake: Adding raw chicken directly to the casserole. Fix: Cook and shred chicken beforehand to ensure it’s fully cooked and flavorful.
• Mistake: Not letting the casserole rest after baking. Fix: Allow it to sit for 10 minutes so the sauce thickens and slices hold shape.
• Mistake: Using a watery cream sauce. Fix: Create a thick roux-based sauce to prevent a soupy final dish.
• Mistake: Overcrowding the baking dish. Fix: Use a 9×13-inch dish for even heat distribution and proper browning.
• Mistake: Baking at too high a temperature. Fix: Bake at 375°F to cook through without burning the cheese topping.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store your Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Always use a food thermometer to ensure your Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole is reheated to a safe temperature of 165°F to eliminate any potential foodborne bacteria.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole is the ultimate comfort food for busy weeknights. We hope your family loves it as much as ours does! Give it a try and let us know how it turned out in the comments. For more easy dinners, check out our Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole Recipe and Chicken Pot Pie Pasta Recipe. Don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious recipes!

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FAQs

Can I make this Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will be cold from the fridge.

What kind of noodles work best for this casserole?

Egg noodles are the classic choice for a Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole because they hold their shape well. You can also use other short pasta like rotini or penne if you prefer.

How can I prevent the casserole from becoming dry?

Ensure you use enough sauce and do not overbake. Covering the dish with foil for the first part of baking helps lock in moisture for a perfectly creamy Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole.