Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe

If you’re searching for a comforting dish that brings everyone to the table with its irresistible warmth, look no further than this Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe. It’s the perfect blend of tender chicken, hearty egg noodles, and a luscious cheesy sauce that hugs every bite, crowned with a crunchy, buttery cracker topping. This casserole strikes the ideal balance between creamy texture and savory flavor, making it an absolute crowd-pleaser for cozy dinners or weekend family feasts.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe combines simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create layers of flavor and texture. Each component plays a vital role—from the silky cheese sauce that envelops the noodles and chicken to the fresh vegetables that add subtle sweetness and color.

• 12 ounces extra-wide egg noodles: Their broad shape holds the sauce perfectly, making sure every forkful is delicious.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for bringing all the flavors into harmony and heightening the savory notes.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps gently sauté the vegetables and adds a touch of smooth richness.
• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided: Used for sautéing and creating a decadent topping that crisps up beautifully.
• 10 ounces mushrooms, cleaned and sliced: They add earthiness and meaty texture to complement the chicken.
• 2 carrots, chopped: Offer natural sweetness and vibrant color to brighten the dish.
• 1 onion, chopped: A foundational flavor that deepens the overall taste of the casserole.
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Key for thickening the creamy sauce and giving it that perfect consistency.
• 3 cups whole milk: This creates a rich, creamy base that brings everything together.
• 2 cups low-sodium or homemade chicken broth: Adds savory depth without overpowering the cheese and veggies.
• 6 ounces American cheese, deli style, rough chopped: Melts smoothly to create a glossy, comforting texture.
• 6 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: Lends a bold, tangy kick that balances out the mildness of the American cheese.
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings warmth and subtle garlic aroma without overpowering.
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Adds a gentle zing that brightens the creamy sauce.
• 4 cups cooked chicken, diced: The star protein that makes this casserole hearty and satisfying.
• 1 1/2 cups frozen peas: Offer pops of sweetness and lovely green color throughout.
• 20 Ritz crackers, broken into small pieces: Create the irresistible crunchy topping that finishes the dish perfectly.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Noodles

Start by boiling the extra-wide egg noodles according to the package instructions. Once tender, drain them well and season lightly with salt and pepper. This simple step lays the foundation for the casserole, ensuring the noodles remain perfectly cooked and seasoned to absorb the creamy sauce later.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat olive oil and half the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the mushrooms, chopped carrots, and onion, cooking until softened—about 7 to 8 minutes. This process not only softens the vegetables but also brings out their natural sweetness and creates a flavorful base for your sauce.

Step 3: Make the Roux and Sauce

Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed veggies and stir for 1 to 2 minutes to cook out the rawness. Slowly pour in the whole milk and chicken broth while constantly stirring to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and allow it to thicken for about 5 minutes — this creamy sauce is truly where the magic begins.

Step 4: Add the Cheeses and Seasonings

Lower the heat and stir in the chopped American cheese and shredded cheddar until fully melted and smooth. Add garlic powder and Dijon mustard to deepen the flavors and add a subtle tang. This step infuses your sauce with luscious richness and balanced notes that make the casserole so satisfying.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Peas

Fold diced cooked chicken and frozen peas into the creamy sauce, stirring to distribute them evenly. The chicken adds hearty, tender bites, while the peas bring a fresh contrast and pretty green flecks throughout the dish.

Step 6: Mix in the Noodles

Gently incorporate the cooked egg noodles into the sauce mixture, making sure every noodle is coated with creamy goodness. This harmony of textures and flavors is what makes this Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe such a comfort food classic.

Step 7: Assemble in a Baking Dish

Transfer the entire mixture into a well-greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. This prepares the casserole for its final baking step where everything melds together beautifully.

Step 8: Prepare the Topping and Bake

Melt the remaining butter in a small bowl and toss it with the broken Ritz crackers. Evenly sprinkle this buttery crumb mixture over the top of the casserole. Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 25 to 30 minutes, until the casserole bubbles happily and the topping turns a gorgeous golden brown.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking to settle and make scooping easier. This short pause enhances every serving, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

Adding fresh garnishes can elevate your Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe in a snap. Try sprinkling chopped fresh parsley or thyme for a burst of color and herbal brightness. A light dusting of freshly cracked black pepper can also add a subtle kick that wakes up the creamy richness beautifully.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs wonderfully with crisp, refreshing sides. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness, while steamed green beans or roasted broccoli add a healthy, crunchy complement. For a cozy meal, creamy mashed potatoes or buttery dinner rolls also serve as fantastic companions.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the casserole in individual ramekins instead of one big dish—this makes it feel extra special and perfect for entertaining guests. You can also jazz up the topping by mixing in some toasted pine nuts or chopped fresh herbs with the cracker crumbs for added texture and flavor complexity.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover casserole keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to cover it well to preserve the creamy texture and prevent drying out. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, the flavors have even more time to meld, making for a satisfying second meal.

Freezing

This Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe freezes exceptionally well. Prepare and assemble the casserole, then cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap before freezing. It’s best enjoyed within 2 months for optimal freshness. When you want to reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 25 minutes until warmed through and bubbly. Cover loosely with foil to prevent the topping from burning, then uncover near the end to crisp it back up. You can also use a microwave for quicker reheating, stirring halfway to ensure even warming.

FAQs

Can I use different types of noodles for this casserole?

Absolutely! While extra-wide egg noodles work best for holding the sauce, you can use other pasta shapes like penne or rotini if that’s what you have on hand. Just be mindful to cook them al dente since they’ll bake further in the oven.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, with a few substitutions. Use plant-based butter and milk alternatives like almond or oat milk, and dairy-free cheese to replicate the creamy texture and cheesy flavor. The casserole might be slightly different but still delicious.

Can I use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken?

Definitely! Using rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken saves time and adds great flavor. Just dice it up and fold it into the sauce during the cooking process as directed.

How can I make the topping crispier?

For an extra-crispy topping, try adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or panko breadcrumbs mixed with your Ritz cracker crumbs. Also, avoid covering the casserole while baking so the topping can brown nicely.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly before baking?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole and freeze it prior to baking. Just cover tightly and bake it straight from frozen — add 10 to 15 extra minutes to the baking time and cover loosely with foil until hot and bubbly.

Final Thoughts

You really can’t go wrong with this Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe when you want a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and crispy topping come together in a way that simply delights every time. I encourage you to gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and try making this comforting classic—you’ll be hooked from the very first spoonful!

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