Easy Chicken Casserole with Noodles

If you’re searching for a quick, hearty, and crowd-pleasing meal, this Easy Chicken Casserole with Noodles is the perfect choice. With tender chicken, creamy sauce, and cheesy goodness, it’s a family favorite that comes together in just 40 minutes. Whether you’re feeding a large group or looking for leftovers that reheat beautifully, this casserole delivers on flavor and convenience.

Ingredients

To create this delicious casserole, gather these pantry and fridge staples:

• 3 cups cooked chicken (diced)
• 12 ounces egg noodles (cooked to al dente)
• 2 cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
• 21 ounces Campbell’s cream of chicken soup (2 cans, undiluted)
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
• 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning mix
• 12 ounces evaporated milk
• 1 cup French fried onions
• ¾ cup pasta water

Instructions

Creating this casserole is as simple as mixing, layering, and baking. Here’s how to make it:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with non-stick spray and set aside.
2. Cook the egg noodles. In a large pot of salted water, cook the noodles to al dente. Drain well and set them aside.
3. Prepare the creamy sauce. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, evaporated milk, pasta water, and ranch seasoning until smooth.
4. Combine the casserole ingredients. Add the cooked noodles, half of the shredded cheese, diced chicken, and frozen peas and carrots to the creamy sauce. Mix everything thoroughly and transfer to the prepared baking dish.
5. Add toppings. Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly over the top, followed by the French fried onions for a crispy finish.
6. Bake to perfection. Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights.
• Versatile: You can swap out the frozen vegetables or use leftover turkey instead of chicken.
• Kid-Friendly: The creamy, cheesy flavors are sure to win over even the pickiest eaters.

Pro Tips for the Best Casserole

• Use fresh chicken: Rotisserie chicken works perfectly and adds a touch of extra flavor.
• Don’t skip the pasta water: It helps to create a smooth, cohesive sauce.
• Add a crispy finish: For a golden topping, remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a Side Salad: Serve this casserole alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness.
• Add Bread: A warm, crusty baguette or buttery dinner rolls make the perfect companions for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Customize for a Crowd: This recipe is perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or meal prepping for the week.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerate: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
• Freeze: To freeze, transfer the cooled casserole into a freezer-safe container or wrap the dish tightly in aluminum foil and plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

With these serving and storage tips, your Easy Chicken Casserole with Noodles can go from a weeknight favorite to a ready-to-go meal for any occasion.

Variations

This versatile Easy Chicken Casserole with Noodles is the perfect base for experimenting with different flavors and ingredients. Here are some creative variations to try:

1. Protein Swaps

• Turkey Casserole: Use cooked turkey instead of chicken for a post-holiday twist.
• Ham and Cheese: Replace chicken with diced ham and use Swiss or Gruyère cheese for a comforting combination.
• Tuna Noodle Casserole: Substitute canned tuna (drained) for chicken, and add a dash of Old Bay seasoning for a seafood spin.

2. Veggie Boosts

• Broccoli Cheddar Casserole: Swap peas and carrots for steamed broccoli florets and pair with extra cheddar cheese.
• Mushroom Medley: Add sautéed mushrooms for a deep, earthy flavor.
• Spinach Delight: Stir in a cup of fresh spinach before baking for added nutrients.

3. Cheesy Twists

• Mexican-Style Casserole: Use a mix of cheddar and pepper jack cheese, and add diced green chilies or a sprinkle of taco seasoning.
• Italian-Inspired: Replace cheddar with mozzarella and Parmesan, and mix in Italian seasoning or a spoonful of marinara sauce.

4. Topping Ideas

• Crispy Panko: Use panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter as an alternative to French fried onions for a crunchy topping.
• Crushed Chips: Sprinkle crushed potato chips, Ritz crackers, or tortilla chips on top for added texture and flavor.
• Bacon Lovers: Add crumbled cooked bacon on top for a smoky, savory finish.

5. Gluten-Free Option

• Use Gluten-Free Noodles: Swap egg noodles for your favorite gluten-free pasta, and ensure your soup and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

6. Dairy-Free Version

• Dairy-Free Cheese and Milk: Replace cheddar cheese with dairy-free cheese and use unsweetened almond or oat milk instead of evaporated milk.

7. Spice It Up

• Buffalo Chicken Casserole: Mix in a few tablespoons of buffalo sauce and top with crumbled blue cheese.
• Cajun Style: Add Cajun seasoning and sliced andouille sausage for a Southern-inspired twist.

With these variations, you can adapt Easy Chicken Casserole with Noodles to suit any craving or dietary need, making it a recipe you’ll never tire of!

FAQs

1. Can I use leftover chicken for this casserole?
Yes, leftover chicken is perfect for this casserole! It’s a great way to use up rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you have on hand.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it the next day, but add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

3. Can I use different pasta types?
Yes! You can use other types of pasta like penne, shells, or fusilli instead of egg noodles. Just make sure to cook it al dente before adding it to the casserole.

4. Is there a way to make this casserole spicier?
To add some heat, mix in a tablespoon or two of hot sauce, red pepper flakes, or diced jalapeños. You can also use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar.

5. Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes! You can freeze the casserole before baking or after it’s been baked. To freeze before baking, cover tightly with foil and plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual.

6. Can I use low-fat or fat-free cream of chicken soup?
Yes, you can substitute low-fat or fat-free cream of chicken soup for the regular version. The casserole will still be creamy, though the texture might be slightly different.

7. Can I make this casserole without ranch seasoning?
If you don’t have ranch seasoning, you can replace it with other seasonings like Italian seasoning, onion powder, or garlic powder. You could also use a packet of onion soup mix for added flavor.

8. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire dish in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

9. Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen peas and carrots?
Yes! You can use fresh vegetables such as chopped carrots, peas, or even corn. Just make sure to cook them slightly before adding them to the casserole so they’re tender.

10. Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables, like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini. You can also replace the chicken with tofu or plant-based protein for a vegetarian alternative.

This Easy Chicken Casserole with Noodles is a comforting classic that combines creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors into one dish. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or a meal for a gathering, this recipe guarantees satisfied smiles. Give it a try and watch it become a staple in your recipe rotation!

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