Why This Recipe Is a Keeper
Before we dive into the method, here is why this chicken noodle casserole will become a favorite.
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Only 4 ingredients. Simple and affordable.
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Great for leftovers. Use rotisserie or leftover chicken.
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One dish. Minimal cleanup.
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Creamy and comforting. Rich, satisfying, and delicious.
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Crowd-pleasing. Everyone loves chicken and noodles.
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Budget-friendly. Chicken, noodles, and soup are inexpensive.
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Perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Servings: 6
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12 oz wide egg noodles, dried
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3 cups cooked shredded chicken (from rotisserie or leftover chicken)
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2 cans (10.5 oz each) condensed cream of chicken soup
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2 cups whole milk
Ingredient Notes
Wide egg noodles: Use wide egg noodles. Cook them 2 minutes less than al dente.
Cooked shredded chicken: Use rotisserie or leftover chicken. Shred it into bite-sized pieces.
Cream of chicken soup: Creates the creamy sauce base.
Whole milk: Adds richness and creaminess.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch glass baking dish.
Step 2: Cook the Noodles
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook for 2 minutes less than the package directions. Drain well.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
While the noodles cook, whisk together the condensed cream of chicken soup and the milk in a large bowl until smooth.
Step 4: Add the Chicken
Stir the shredded cooked chicken into the soup and milk mixture until evenly coated.
Step 5: Combine
Add the drained egg noodles to the bowl and gently fold everything together until evenly coated.
Step 6: Transfer to Dish
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it into an even layer.
Step 7: First Bake (Covered)
Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 25 minutes, until hot and bubbling.
Step 8: Second Bake (Uncovered)
Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 to 15 minutes, until the top is lightly golden.
Step 9: Rest and Serve
Let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes before serving.
How to Serve Chicken Noodle Casserole
This creamy, comforting casserole is delicious on its own, but a few accompaniments make it even better.
With a Green Salad: A simple salad cuts through the richness.
With Crusty Bread: Perfect for sopping up the sauce.
With Roasted Vegetables: Serve with green beans or broccoli.
With Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle with parsley or chives.
With Extra Cheese: Add Parmesan on top.
Variations & Tips
Make It with Turkey: Substitute turkey for the chicken.
Make It with Different Noodles: Use fettuccine or pappardelle.
Make It with Different Soup: Use cream of mushroom or celery soup.
Make It with Vegetables: Add peas or mushrooms.
Make It with Cheese: Add shredded cheddar on top.
Make It with Herbs: Add thyme or parsley.
Make It with Garlic: Add minced garlic.
Make It Spicier: Add red pepper flakes.
Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free noodles and soup.
Pro Tips for Absolute Success
Cook the noodles 2 minutes less than al dente. They will finish cooking in the oven.
Do not overmix. This keeps the noodles from breaking.
Let the casserole rest before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different meat?
Yes. Turkey or ham can be used.
Can I use a different pasta?
Yes. Fettuccine or penne can be used.
Can I use a different soup?
Yes. Cream of mushroom or celery soup can be used.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
How long do leftovers last?
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Why is my sauce thin?
The noodles did not absorb enough liquid. Let it rest.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes. Add peas or mushrooms.
Can I use a different pan?
Yes. Any oven-safe dish works.
Can I make this without chicken?
Yes. Use turkey or omit the meat.
The Beauty of Simple Casseroles
There is something deeply satisfying about a warm, creamy casserole that comes together with almost no effort. It is the kind of food that makes people happy. This chicken noodle casserole is a celebration of all those things.
Keep chicken in your freezer. Keep noodles and soup in your pantry. This recipe is the reason why.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes covered, plus 10–15 minutes uncovered
Rest Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour
Yield: 6 servings