Comfort food at its finest, Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole is creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender chicken, perfectly cooked noodles, and a hint of savory herbs. Every bite is cozy and satisfying, making it the ultimate family friendly meal. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a dish to bring to a potluck, this casserole delivers warm, nostalgic flavors that everyone will love.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Using pantry staples like noodles, shredded chicken, and a creamy sauce, you can create a rich, comforting casserole in less than an hour. The cheesy topping melts to golden perfection, adding a crispy, indulgent contrast to the creamy interior. This is one of those meals that tastes like it took hours, even though it comes together effortlessly.

Chicken Noodle Casserole

What Is Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe?

The Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole is a baked dish that combines tender chicken, egg noodles, creamy sauce, and a cheesy topping into one hearty, wholesome meal. It is a modern twist on classic chicken and noodle comfort dishes, blending convenience with rich, homemade flavor.

Traditionally, chicken casseroles are a go to for busy families because they can be prepped ahead, baked quickly, and feed a crowd. This recipe stands out for its balance of creaminess and texture soft noodles, savory chicken, creamy sauce, and a lightly crisped top that makes each bite irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy: Minimal prep with pantry friendly ingredients
Family approved: Comforting flavors everyone will enjoy
One dish meal: Easy cleanup and no complicated cooking steps
Customizable: Add veggies, different cheeses, or spices to suit your taste
Make ahead friendly: Perfect for meal prep or entertaining

How This Recipe Works

Tender chicken: Cooking chicken ahead or using rotisserie ensures juicy, flavorful meat
Creamy sauce: A combination of cream of chicken soup, cream cheese, and milk gives a rich, velvety texture
Perfectly cooked noodles: Tossed in the sauce before baking to absorb flavor without turning mushy
Cheesy topping: Broiled briefly to form a golden, bubbly crust that contrasts with the creamy casserole interior

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

3 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie or poached)
12 ounces egg noodles
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
4 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup milk
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)

Optional Add Ins

1 cup frozen peas or carrots
½ cup diced celery or bell peppers
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika for a hint of warmth

Substitutions & Notes

Use chicken broth instead of milk for a lighter sauce
Substitute cream of mushroom soup for cream of chicken for a slightly earthier flavor
Gluten free noodles work well for dietary needs

Close-up of easy chicken noodle casserole bite with chicken and cheese — Every bite of this creamy chicken noodle casserole is pure comfort.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with cooking spray or butter.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together cream of chicken soup, softened cream cheese, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Chicken, Noodles, and Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked noodles, shredded chicken, and any optional vegetables. Pour in the creamy sauce and toss until everything is evenly coated.

Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish

Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.

Step 6: Bake

Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and lightly golden.

Step 7: Serve

Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of paprika if desired.

Tips & Tricks / Flavor Variations

Extra creamy: Stir in ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt into the sauce before baking
Veggie boost: Add broccoli florets, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition
Cheesy twist: Mix mozzarella with cheddar for extra gooeyness
Herb swap: Use rosemary or sage instead of thyme for a different flavor profile
Make it spicy: Add ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a mild kick

For more one dish comfort meals, try pairing with Easy Lasagna Cups or One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese
for a cozy dinner rotation.

Make Ahead, Storage & Freezing Instructions

Make Ahead

Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and store in the fridge. Bake when ready, adding an extra 5–10 minutes to account for chilled ingredients.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days
Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through or in the microwave for single servings

Freezing

Freeze unbaked casserole (tightly covered) for up to 2 months
Bake from frozen at 350°F, adding 15–20 minutes to cooking time

Served easy chicken noodle casserole portion with garnish — Serve easy chicken noodle casserole hot for a comforting family meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole as a complete meal or alongside:

A crisp green salad with vinaigrette
Steamed green beans or roasted asparagus
Garlic bread or dinner rolls
A side of fruit salad for a lighter contrast

It also pairs wonderfully with other family friendly favorites like Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole for a comforting, hearty dinner lineup.

Nutritional Notes (Approximate per Serving)

Calories: 420–460
Protein: 25–28g
Fat: 18–22g
Carbohydrates: 38–42g

Values vary depending on cheese type, milk choice, and add-ins.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking noodles: They will become mushy when baked
Skipping seasoning: Creamy casseroles need herbs and spices for depth
Not letting it rest: Resting allows the casserole to set slightly, making serving easier
Using cold ingredients: Soften cream cheese and warm milk slightly for a smoother sauce

FAQs About Chicken Noodle Casserole

Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes! It saves time and adds flavor.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes—use gluten-free egg noodles or pasta.

Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely peas, carrots, broccoli, or mushrooms work well.

Can I make it dairy-free?
Substitute cream cheese with vegan cream cheese and use a dairy-free shredded cheese.

Can this be made ahead for meal prep?
Yes! Assemble and refrigerate, then bake when ready.

Conclusion

Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole is the ultimate comfort food for busy families, weeknight dinners, or a cozy night in. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender chicken and noodles, this recipe delivers warmth, flavor, and simplicity in one satisfying dish. It’s approachable enough for beginners but comforting enough to become a family favorite.

If you love easy dinners like Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole or Easy Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole, this recipe belongs in your regular rotation.

Creamy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor this Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole is the cozy, make ahead dinner your Pinterest board needs. Save it now and enjoy comfort food in a flash!

Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe

This Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole is creamy, comforting, and full of tender, savory goodness. Juicy chicken, soft noodles, and a rich, cheesy sauce bake together into a hearty, satisfying dish that feels like home in every bite. It’s a simple, family-friendly casserole perfect for weeknight dinners or make-ahead meals.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20

Cook Time 25

Total Time 45

Course Main Dish

Cuisine American

Servings 8

Calories 420 kcal