If you are looking for a heartwarming dish that blends creamy comfort with irresistible flavors, this Chicken Noodle Bake Recipe is a must-try. It combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked egg noodles, and a luscious cheese sauce that bakes to bubbling, golden perfection. Each bite offers a beautiful balance of savory, creamy textures with a subtle crunch on top if you choose to add a buttery crumb topping. This casserole is not only simple to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser perfect for family dinners or feeding guests with ease.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are surprisingly simple but each one plays a crucial role in making this dish burst with flavor, texture, and vibrant color. From tender chicken to creamy cheeses and fresh veggies, you’ll see how straightforward components create something special.
- 12 ounces egg noodles: The perfect base that soaks up all the creamy sauce without getting mushy.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps sauté the onions and garlic beautifully.
- 1 medium yellow onion (chopped): Introduces a sweet, savory depth when softened.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): A flavorful punch that wakes up the aromatic palette.
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced): Tender protein that makes this casserole hearty and satisfying.
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup: The creamy binder that brings everything together in silky harmony.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds tanginess and lush creaminess for a luscious sauce.
- 1/2 cup milk: Lightens the sauce just enough while keeping it smooth.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Provides subtle heat and depth.
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (thawed): Brings sweet pops of color and a fresh vegetable touch.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided): Sharp, melty, and essential for that gooey, cheesy signature.
- 1/2 cup crushed butter crackers or breadcrumbs (optional for topping): Creates a delightful crunchy topping contrast.
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish): Adds a fresh, vibrant finish to brighten every bite.
How to Make Chicken Noodle Bake Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Egg Noodles
Start with boiling a large pot of salted water. Cook the egg noodles just until al dente, so they hold their shape and texture after baking. Drain and set them aside to keep them from overcooking later on.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
While the noodles are cooking, melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook it gently until it becomes soft and translucent—about 4 to 5 minutes. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. This step builds a flavorful base with sweetness and aromatic depth that’ll infuse the entire dish.
Step 3: Mix the Creamy Sauce
In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, salt, pepper, and one cup of shredded cheddar cheese. This mixture is the heart and soul of the casserole, providing that rich, creamy texture and cheesy goodness that makes the dish irresistible.
Step 4: Combine All Ingredients
Stir the cooked egg noodles, cooked chicken, thawed peas and carrots, and the sautéed onion and garlic mixture into the sauce. Mix everything well, ensuring all the noodles and chicken pieces are generously coated with the sauce. This creates a harmonious medley of flavors and textures in every bite.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and pour the entire mixture inside, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining half cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. If you want that wonderful crispy texture topping, sprinkle crushed butter crackers or breadcrumbs before baking. Bake uncovered at 350°F for 25 to 30 minutes until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and golden on top.
How to Serve Chicken Noodle Bake Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds that pop of color and a hint of fresh herbaceous flavor, perfect for cutting through the creamy richness.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette or some roasted seasonal vegetables to balance the richness of the bake. For a homier touch, creamy mashed potatoes or buttery garlic bread are also fantastic companions.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this Chicken Noodle Bake Recipe straight from the casserole dish for a cozy family-style meal. For entertaining, portion it into small oven-safe ramekins for individual servings that feel special and elegant. You can also layer it in a clear glass casserole dish to showcase the colorful layers of noodles, veggies, and cheese.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, simply place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate. This Chicken Noodle Bake Recipe will keep well for up to 3 days, and the flavors even deepen overnight.
Freezing
If you want to prep this dish well in advance, it freezes beautifully. Assemble the casserole fully but do not bake. Wrap it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, bake it directly from frozen, adding about 10 extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F until warmed through and bubbling, around 15 to 20 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible to preserve the creamy texture and crisp topping.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of noodle for this bake?
Absolutely! While egg noodles are the classic choice for their silky texture and ability to soak up the sauce, you can swap in penne, rotini, or even fusilli if you prefer. Just keep the cooking time for the noodles al dente before baking.
Is it necessary to use cream of chicken soup?
The cream of chicken soup acts as a quick and easy binder that adds creaminess and flavor, but you can substitute it with homemade white sauce or cream of mushroom soup for a slightly different twist. Keep in mind this might change the flavor profile somewhat.
Can I add vegetables to make the dish healthier?
Yes! This recipe is very adaptable—adding cooked mushrooms, spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers works wonderfully and boosts the nutrients without compromising taste.
What type of chicken works best?
Cooked shredded chicken from rotisserie chicken is ideal for convenience and flavor. You can also use leftover roasted chicken or poached chicken breast. Just make sure it is shredded or diced into bite-sized pieces.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Definitely. You can assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to add around 10 extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats all the way through.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly satisfying about a warm, cheesy casserole, and this Chicken Noodle Bake Recipe nails that comforting feeling with ease and flavor. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends, guaranteed to bring smiles around your dinner table. Don’t hesitate—grab the ingredients and dive into creating your own cozy bake that your friends and family will ask for again and again.
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Chicken Noodle Bake Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Chicken Noodle Bake is a comforting, creamy casserole featuring tender egg noodles, shredded chicken, and a cheesy sauce baked to perfection. Combining sautéed onions and garlic with a smooth blend of cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and milk, topped with melted cheddar cheese and an optional crunchy cracker crust, this hearty American classic makes for a satisfying main course perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 ounces egg noodles
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
Topping
- 1/2 cup crushed butter crackers or breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Cook Noodles: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until just al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Mix Sauce and Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, salt, black pepper, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir well until smooth. Add the cooked egg noodles, chicken, thawed peas and carrots, and the sautéed onion and garlic mixture. Mix thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Assemble Casserole: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour the noodle and chicken mixture into the prepared dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. If desired, add the crushed butter crackers or breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping.
- Bake: Place the baking dish uncovered in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the top is lightly browned.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving to add freshness and color.
Notes
- Rotisserie chicken works great in this recipe for convenience and flavor.
- Add cooked mushrooms or spinach for extra vegetables and nutrition.
- This dish can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated; just add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
