Chicken Noodle Casserole

This chicken noodle casserole is a cozy, family-style dish that’s creamy, hearty, and full of comforting flavors. I love how it combines tender chicken, flavorful noodles, and a mix of vegetables all baked together in a rich, creamy sauce. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a busy day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s simple, uses pantry staples, and comes together quickly. The combination of creamy soups, vegetables, and noodles creates the perfect texture—soft, savory, and satisfying. It’s also a great way to use up leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken, making dinner both easy and delicious.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

1 can cream of mushroom & chicken
1 can cream of celery
1 can diced carrots
1 can peas
1 can corn
4 chicken thighs; baked or rotisserie chicken for ease
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
8 oz dumpling noodles or egg noodle

Directions

1. I start by preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. I cook the noodles according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and set them aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, I combine the cream of mushroom & chicken soup, cream of celery soup, diced carrots, peas, and corn. I stir until everything is evenly mixed.
4. I shred the baked or rotisserie chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and add them to the bowl.
5. I season the mixture with salt and pepper, stirring everything together until well combined.
6. I gently fold in the cooked noodles, making sure they’re evenly coated with the creamy mixture.
7. I transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
8. I bake uncovered for about 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and heated through.
9. I let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 6 servings. It takes roughly 45 minutes total—15 minutes for prep and 30 minutes for baking.

Variations

Sometimes I like to add shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese on top before baking for a golden, cheesy crust. I’ve also stirred in sautéed onions or mushrooms for more flavor. For a crunchy topping, I sprinkle crushed butter crackers or breadcrumbs over the casserole before baking. If I’m in the mood for a little spice, I add a pinch of paprika or red pepper flakes.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot, or I use the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating. If the casserole thickens too much, I stir in a splash of milk or chicken broth to bring back the creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use different types of noodles?

Yes, I sometimes use rotini, penne, or wide egg noodles depending on what I have on hand.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, I assemble it a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, I just add 5–10 extra minutes to the baking time.

Can I freeze chicken noodle casserole?

Absolutely. I let it cool completely, wrap it well, and freeze it for up to 2 months. I thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What kind of chicken works best?

I prefer rotisserie chicken for ease, but any cooked chicken—like baked, boiled, or grilled—works great.

Can I add cheese to this recipe?

Yes, I love adding shredded cheddar or parmesan for extra flavor and creaminess.

How can I make this recipe lighter?

I use low-fat cream soups and add more vegetables instead of extra noodles for a lighter version.

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely. I’ve added green beans, broccoli, or mixed veggies, and they all work beautifully.

How do I make it more flavorful?

I sometimes add garlic powder, onion powder, or a pinch of poultry seasoning to boost the flavor.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, I combine everything in the slow cooker and cook on low for 3–4 hours or until heated through.

What should I serve with chicken noodle casserole?

I like serving it with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion

I love how this chicken noodle casserole transforms simple ingredients into a comforting, homey dish that everyone enjoys. It’s creamy, full of flavor, and perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. Whether I’m using leftover chicken or making it from scratch, this casserole always hits the spot.

Print