Chicken Noodle Casserole – The Ultimate Creamy Comfort Food

When it comes to family dinners that are quick, hearty, and guaranteed to please, few dishes rival the comforting goodness of a chicken noodle casserole. This classic dish is creamy, savory, and packed with flavor — a warm hug in a baking dish that brings everyone to the table with smiles.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd, using up leftover chicken, or simply craving something cozy and satisfying, this casserole hits all the right notes. It combines tender egg noodles, shredded chicken, sweet peas, and a rich, cheesy sauce for the perfect bite every time.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Noodle Casserole

• Quick to prepare – You’ll have everything assembled in just 20 minutes.
• Family-friendly – Kids and adults alike love this cheesy, creamy comfort food.
• Perfect for leftovers – A great way to use up rotisserie or cooked chicken.
• Freezer-friendly – Make it ahead and freeze for a stress-free weeknight meal.

Let’s break down the ingredients and the simple steps to create this soul-warming dish.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for a 9×13-inch pan of creamy chicken noodle casserole:

• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded (leftover roast or rotisserie works perfectly)
• 8 oz egg noodles, cooked and drained
• 1 cup frozen peas, thawed or lightly steamed
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, preferably sharp for extra flavor
• 1/2 cup sour cream, for added creaminess and tang
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup, condensed
• 1/2 cup milk, to loosen the sauce
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, to add a touch of depth
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder, or more to taste
• Salt and pepper, to season to your preference

For the topping:

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, plain or seasoned
• 1 tablespoon butter, melted

Directions

1. Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray or a thin layer of butter.

2. Cook the Noodles

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil, then cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside. Be careful not to overcook, as the noodles will continue to soften in the oven.

3. Mix the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, peas, cheddar cheese, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, milk, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined.

Tip: Taste your sauce before adding the noodles. Adjust the seasoning as needed — a bit of paprika or onion powder can also be a nice touch!

4. Add the Noodles

Fold in the cooked noodles gently to avoid breaking them. Make sure every noodle is well-coated with the creamy mixture.

5. Assemble the Casserole

Pour the entire mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly with a spatula.

6. Prepare the Topping

In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter until they resemble wet sand. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole for a crisp, golden topping.

7. Bake to Perfection

Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly, and the top is beautifully golden.

Optional: For a deeper crust, broil the casserole for the last 2 minutes — just keep a close eye on it!

Serving Suggestions

This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with:

• A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette
• Steamed broccoli or green beans
• Fresh bread or garlic toast on the side

Storage & Reheating Tips

Got leftovers? Lucky you!

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
• To reheat: Warm individual portions in the microwave, or bake covered at 325°F until hot.

Make It Your Own!

One of the best things about this chicken noodle casserole is its versatility. Try these ideas:

• Add veggies – Swap peas for corn, carrots, mushrooms, or mixed vegetables.
• Switch proteins – Use turkey, ham, or even canned tuna.
• Go gluten-free – Use gluten-free noodles and breadcrumbs.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a foolproof dinner that brings warmth, comfort, and a whole lot of flavor, this creamy chicken noodle casserole won’t disappoint. It’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to become a staple in your weekly rotation.

Make it once, and your family will ask for it again and again!