Description
This Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that combines tender cooked chicken, egg noodles, and a creamy sauce made from sour cream, cream of chicken soup, and cheese. Topped with a buttery cracker crust, this casserole bakes to golden perfection and is perfect for a family dinner or meal prep.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
- 3 cups egg noodles (cooked according to package directions)
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (thawed)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Topping
- 1/2 cup crushed buttery crackers (like Ritz)
- 2 tablespoons butter (melted)
Seasoning and Garnish
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent the casserole from sticking during baking.
- Cook Noodles: Cook the egg noodles according to the package directions until al dente. Drain them well and set aside so they are ready to mix with the other ingredients.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, thawed peas and carrots, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, milk, mozzarella cheese, and cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the cooked noodles until all ingredients are well incorporated and evenly combined.
- Assemble Casserole: Spread the chicken and noodle mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, ensuring an even layer for consistent baking.
- Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, mix the crushed buttery crackers with the melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated. Sprinkle this cracker mixture evenly over the top of the casserole to create a crunchy topping.
- Bake: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and the casserole is bubbly, indicating that it’s heated through and the flavors are melded.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your creamy, comforting chicken noodle casserole!
Notes
- For a crispier topping, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- You can substitute the cream of chicken soup with homemade white sauce for a fresher taste.
- Use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Frozen peas and carrots should be thawed and drained to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.
- This casserole can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated before baking; just increase baking time slightly if baking cold.
