Old School Chicken Noodle Casserole

If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, this Old School Chicken Noodle Casserole is for you! With its rich, creamy sauce, tender chicken, and comforting noodles, this casserole will bring you right back to your childhood kitchen. Plus, it’s quick, simple, and made from ingredients you likely already have on hand. Perfect for a cozy family dinner!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic Comfort: The creamy, cheesy, and savory flavor combination hits all the right nostalgic notes.
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will devour this dish, and the leftovers (if there are any!) taste even better the next day.
• Simple Ingredients: You probably have most of these items in your pantry and fridge already!
• Quick Prep: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you’ll have this casserole ready to bake and forget.

What Does It Taste Like?

Think of a warm, cheesy hug! This casserole has all the comforting flavors you love about chicken noodle soup but transformed into a creamy, baked version. The shredded chicken brings a savory heartiness, the egg noodles add just the right amount of bite, and the creamy sauce ties everything together with that perfect touch of richness. Oh, and the cheesy top layer? It’s an absolute game-changer!

Benefits of This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein and carbs, this casserole is perfect for a satisfying meal.
• Budget-Friendly: Made with affordable ingredients you might already have.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make ahead and simply reheat for those busy weeknights.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great for this!)
• 2 cups egg noodles, cooked
• 1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz)
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for a crunchy topping)

this Recipe

Tools for Success

• Mixing bowl: For combining all those delicious ingredients.
• Baking dish: A 9×13-inch dish works best.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: To mix everything smoothly.
• Measuring cups: Ensure your portions are just right!

How to Make Old School Chicken Noodle Casserole

1. Preheat the Oven
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter.
2. Mix Ingredients
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked noodles, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is evenly combined.
3. Assemble the Casserole
   Pour the chicken noodle mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs on top for that signature crunchy topping!
4. Bake to Perfection
   Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and golden brown on top. Let it cool slightly before serving.

What to Serve with Chicken Noodle Casserole

While this casserole is plenty hearty on its own, you can round out your meal with a few simple sides:

• Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, carrots, or green beans balance out the richness.
• Fresh Salad: A light, tangy vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with the creamy casserole.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft, warm rolls are perfect for sopping up every bit of sauce!

Tips for the Best Chicken Noodle Casserole

• Use Leftover Chicken: Rotisserie chicken or leftover baked chicken works like a charm and saves time!
• Extra Creamy: If you prefer a richer casserole, add a bit more milk or even a dollop of cream cheese.
• Cheesy Upgrade: Swap out cheddar for a sharp cheese like gouda or pepper jack for an extra kick.
• Add Veggies: Stir in peas, corn, or even sautéed mushrooms for extra texture and nutrition.

Storage Instructions

This casserole stores beautifully!

• In the Fridge: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• In the Freezer: Freeze the casserole (either baked or unbaked) for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and bake at 350°F for about 25-30 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use another type of noodle?
A: Yes! Any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or rotini will work in place of egg noodles.

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze it if you want to prepare it even further in advance.

Q: What can I substitute for sour cream?
A: Greek yogurt works great as a substitute, adding a slight tang but keeping the creamy texture.

Conclusion

This Old School Chicken Noodle Casserole is not only an easy, comforting meal, but it also captures the warmth of home-cooked goodness with every bite. Whether you’re serving it to family, friends, or just enjoying a cozy night in, this dish is a must-try! The best part? It’s versatile, quick to prepare, and sure to become a new family favorite.

For more classic recipes like this, check out my Chicken Pot Pie Pasta, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers, or even indulge your sweet tooth with some Cake Batter Chocolate Chip Cookies.

And don’t forget to leave a comment or share your photos on Pinterest—I’d love to see your take on this old-school favorite!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 380
• Protein: 22g
• Carbs: 28g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 2g

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