Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole: Ultimate Comfort Food

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Introduction

This Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole is the epitome of comfort food—creamy, hearty, and packed with flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or meal prep, this dish combines tender chicken, egg noodles, and a rich, cheesy sauce topped with a buttery cracker crust. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to customize and always satisfies.

Using rotisserie chicken keeps prep quick, while the blend of cheddar and mozzarella ensures gooey, melty perfection in every bite. The crispy cracker topping adds the ideal crunch, making this casserole a family favorite.

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

  • 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great!)
  • 8 oz wide egg noodles, cooked al dente
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup (low-fat or regular)
  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • Salt & pepper to taste

For the Topping:

  • 1 ½ cups crushed buttery crackers (like Ritz)
  • 3 tbsp butter, melted

Optional Add-Ins:

  • 1 cup frozen peas or broccoli florets
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika for extra depth

Instructions

Step 1: Prep & Preheat

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Cook egg noodles according to package directions (leave slightly firm). Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

  1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, noodles, sour cream, soup, cheddar, mozzarella, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  2. Stir until evenly coated. Fold in veggies if using.

Step 3: Assemble & Top

  1. Spread mixture into the baking dish.
  2. In a small bowl, mix crushed crackers and melted butter. Sprinkle over the casserole.

Step 4: Bake

  1. Bake for 25–30 minutes, until bubbly and the topping is golden.
  2. Let sit 5 minutes before serving.

Tips for Success

  • Noodle Texture: Undercook noodles slightly—they’ll soften more while baking.
  • Cheese Swap: Try Colby Jack or Gruyère for a different flavor.
  • Make Ahead: Assemble (without topping), cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add crackers before baking.
  • Storage: Keep leftovers covered in the fridge for 3–4 days. Reheat in the oven to retain crispiness.

Why You’ll Love This Casserole

✨ Quick & easy—ready in under an hour!
✨ Kid-friendly—picky eaters approve.
✨ Versatile—swap chicken for turkey or add veggies.
✨ Comfort food perfection—creamy, cheesy, and crunchy.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole is the ultimate no-fuss meal—comforting, flavorful, and always a hit. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, it’s a guaranteed winner.

Pop it in the oven tonight and enjoy the cheesy, creamy goodness!

Serving Suggestion: Pair with a crisp green salad or steamed veggies for balance.

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