Chicken Noodle Casserole

A hearty chicken noodle casserole is the epitome of comfort food. Warm, creamy, satisfying, and perfect for a family dinner or a gathering, this classic dish brings together tender chicken, rich noodles, and a creamy sauce in perfect harmony. Below, we provide you with an in-depth guide to making the best chicken noodle casserole, with ingredients listed in a table format for easy preparation.

1. Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter or cooking spray.

2. Cook the Egg Noodles

Boil the wide egg noodles in a large pot of salted water according to the package instructions. Cook until just al dente, as they will continue cooking in the oven. Drain and set aside.

3. Make the Creamy Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the following:

• 2 cans of cream of chicken soup

• 1 cup sour cream

• 1/2 cup milk

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

• Salt and pepper

Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-blended.

4. Mix in Chicken and Vegetables

To the creamy mixture, add:

• 3 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works perfectly)

• 1 1/2 cups frozen peas and carrots (no need to thaw)

• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

• Cooked egg noodles

Gently fold everything together until the noodles and chicken are evenly coated in the sauce.

5. Assemble the Casserole

Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish and spread it evenly. Top with the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese.

6. Add the Buttery Cracker Topping

In a small bowl, mix 1 cup of crushed Ritz crackers with 3 tablespoons of melted butter. Sprinkle the mixture over the top of the casserole to add a crispy, buttery crunch.

7. Bake to Perfection

Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.