Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food

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Introduction

When it comes to hearty, satisfying meals that the whole family will love, few dishes can compete with a Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole. This classic comfort food combines tender shredded chicken, egg noodles, and a creamy, cheesy sauce for a dish that’s both easy to make and impossible to resist. Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or meal prep, this casserole delivers rich flavor, creamy texture, and a golden, buttery topping—all in one dish.

With simple ingredients like cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and cheddar cheese, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The optional breadcrumb topping adds a delightful crunch, making every bite a perfect balance of creamy and crispy. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for leftovers that reheat beautifully, this casserole is a must-try!

The Recipe: Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great!)
  • 8 oz egg noodles
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
  • ½ cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing the baking dish)

Instructions

1. Preheat & Prep

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.

2. Cook the Noodles

  • Boil the egg noodles according to package instructions (usually 6-7 minutes for al dente). Drain and set aside.

3. Make the Creamy Sauce

  • In a large bowl, mix together:
  • Cream of chicken soup
  • Sour cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (reserve ½ cup for topping)
  • Milk
  • Garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper

4. Combine Chicken & Noodles

  • Add the shredded chicken and cooked noodles to the sauce mixture. Stir until well coated.

5. Assemble & Bake

  • Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
  • Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup cheddar cheese on top.
  • For extra crunch, add breadcrumbs (optional).
  • Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.

6. Serve & Enjoy!

  • Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired.

Tips for Success

✅ Time-Saver: Use rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken for quick prep.
✅ Extra Creamy: Add ½ cup cream cheese for an even richer texture.
✅ Veggie Boost: Stir in peas, carrots, or broccoli for added nutrition.
✅ Crispy Topping: Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter before sprinkling for extra crunch.
✅ Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate overnight before baking.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. It’s easy to customize, reheats beautifully, and is always a hit with both kids and adults. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to bring to a potluck, this recipe is a foolproof choice.

Whip it up, pop it in the oven, and get ready for a delicious, satisfying meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!

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