On busy weeknights, when you crave warm comfort without spending hours in the kitchen, this chicken noodle casserole delivers exactly that. Combining all the nostalgic flavors of classic chicken noodle soup into a creamy, cheesy bake, it’s an effortless way to bring the family together over a satisfying meal.
This dish marries tender shredded chicken, al dente egg noodles, and a rich, savory sauce topped with a crispy golden breadcrumb layer. It’s simple to prepare, yet indulgently comforting—a true weeknight winner.
- Transforms familiar chicken noodle soup flavors into a hearty baked casserole.
- Quick and easy prep perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping.
- Combines creamy textures with a crunchy panko topping for delightful contrast.
- Uses pantry staples and frozen veggies for convenience and flavor.
Ingredients
- Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and tangy richness, Hellmann’s recommended for smooth flavor.
- Onion: Finely diced to blend sweetness and subtle crunch without overwhelming.
- Egg noodles: Cooked al dente to hold texture and absorb creamy sauce perfectly.
- Milk: Provides a delicate base liquid for sauce making the casserole moist.
- Cream of chicken soup: Signature savory binder that enriches the casserole with comfort flavors.
- Cheddar cheese: Freshly shredded for optimal melting and sharp cheese flavor.
- Frozen peas and carrots: Adds color, sweetness, and nutrition, keeps it simple with Birds Eye brand.
- Chunk chicken breast: Drained canned chicken offers tender protein and convenience.
- Salted butter: Melted to drizzle over panko, creating the perfect golden crust.
- Panko breadcrumbs: Light crispy breadcrumbs give an irresistible crunchy topping.
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Dish
-
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready once the casserole is assembled. Spraying a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray prevents sticking and ensures easy serving.
- Mix the Creamy Sauce Base
-
In a large bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, milk, and diced onion. This mixture forms the flavorful sauce that envelops the noodles and chicken, knitting all ingredients together.
- Add Cheese, Vegetables, and Chicken
-
Stir in sharp cheddar cheese, frozen peas and carrots, and drained chunk chicken breast. These add delicious taste, texture, and heartiness, giving the casserole its classic comforting appeal.
- Incorporate Cooked Noodles
-
Gently fold in the cooked egg noodles to coat them evenly with the creamy sauce mixture. This ensures every bite is perfectly balanced with sauce and protein.
- Assemble the Casserole
-
Transfer the noodle mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Top with panko breadcrumbs, then drizzle the melted salted butter evenly over the crumbs to promote a golden, crisp topping as it bakes.
- Bake Until Bubbly and Golden
-
Bake the casserole uncovered for 30-35 minutes until bubbling hot and the breadcrumb topping is beautifully golden. Let it cool for a few minutes afterward to set slightly before serving.
- Make sure noodles are drained well to avoid a soggy casserole.
- Use freshly shredded cheddar for best melting and flavor impact.
- Panko breadcrumbs combined with melted butter create a signature crunchy crust.
Storage Tips
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this comforting casserole with a crisp green salad or steamed broccoli for a balanced meal. It also pairs well with garlic bread or a simple side of sautéed greens.
- For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of garlic powder or dried herbs to the sauce mixture.
- Substitute cream of mushroom soup for cream of chicken to vary the flavor.
- To make it lighter, swap out mayonnaise for Greek yogurt or sour cream.
- Ensure peas and carrots are thawed slightly to prevent excess moisture in the bake.
FAQs
- Can I use fresh chicken instead of canned?
-
Yes, cooked shredded chicken breast works well and adds fresher flavor. Just ensure it’s well cooked and drained before adding.
- Can I freeze this casserole?
-
Yes, this casserole freezes nicely before baking. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months; thaw overnight and bake as usual.
- Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
-
You can substitute chicken with mushrooms or plant-based chicken alternatives and use vegetable soup to keep it vegetarian.
- What type of egg noodles should I use?
-
Use medium-width egg noodles that cook al dente to hold texture and absorb sauce without becoming mushy.
- Can I add other vegetables?
-
Absolutely! Corn, bell peppers, or green beans are great additions to boost veggie content and color.
- How can I make the topping extra crispy?
-
Try mixing panko with grated Parmesan cheese before drizzling butter for added crunch and flavor.
Super Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole
Equipment
- 1 9x13-inch baking dish sprayed with non-stick cooking spray
- 1 large bowl
Ingredients
- 12 oz egg noodles cooked al dente and drained
- 2 cans 12.5 oz each chunk chicken breast, drained (about 25 oz total)
- 2 cans 10.5 oz each cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup mayonnaise Hellmann’s preferred
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 finely diced onion about 1/4 inch pieces, optional
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese freshly shredded
- 1 1/2 cups frozen peas and carrots
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup salted butter melted (1 stick)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a 9x13 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, combine chunk chicken breast, cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, milk, finely diced onion (optional), shredded cheddar cheese, and frozen peas and carrots. Stir until well mixed.
- Gently fold cooked egg noodles into the mixture, ensuring noodles are evenly coated.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs evenly over the top, then drizzle melted salted butter over breadcrumbs for a golden crispy topping.
- Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Remove from oven and let cool a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese for best melt quality.
- May omit onion for milder flavor.
- Store leftovers covered in fridge up to 3 days.
- Reheat covered in oven or microwave until warm.
- Add cooked mushrooms or other veggies for variation.
