chicken noodle bake recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best chicken noodle bake recipe

I’ve been making this chicken noodle bake recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. It’s a simple, yet satisfying casserole that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

The combination of tender chicken, flavorful noodles, and savory sauce is a winning combination that never fails to please. I love that it’s easy to make ahead and refrigerate or freeze for later, making it a great option for busy days when I need to get dinner on the table quickly.

Plus, the leftovers are always delicious reheated the next day. My kids devour this dish, and I appreciate how wholesome and comforting it is.

This recipe has become a staple in our household, and I’m happy to share it with you so you can enjoy it too! As an added bonus, this dish is relatively healthy compared to other casseroles, with lean protein from the chicken and whole grain noodles providing fiber and nutrients.

It’s a guilt-free comfort food option that I feel good about serving my family.

Creamy Chicken Noodle Bake

4.8 from 969 votes

A comforting dish featuring tender chicken, egg noodles, and a creamy sauce, baked to perfection. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time40 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hour
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp olive oil

For the Sauce

2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried parsley
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Noodles

8 oz wide egg noodles

For Topping

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 tbsp melted butter

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2Meanwhile, season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
3Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
4Add the chicken and cook until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side.
5Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside to rest.
6In the same pan, melt the butter over medium heat.
7Add flour and whisk to form a roux.
8Cook this for 1-2 minutes, or until lightly golden.
9Gradually add chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
10Add heavy cream, thyme, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
11Stir well to combine.
12Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 5-7 minutes, or until it has thickened slightly.
13If the sauce is too thick, add a little more chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
14While the sauce is simmering, cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente.
15Drain and set aside.
16Slice the rested chicken into thin strips.
17In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked noodles, sliced chicken, and creamy sauce.
18Stir well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
19Transfer the chicken and noodle mixture to a greased baking dish.
20Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
21In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs and melted butter.
22Sprinkle this mixture over the cheese.
23Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
24Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
25This allows the sauce to settle and makes it easier to serve.
26Serve the chicken noodle bake hot, directly from the baking dish.
27Enjoy with a side salad or steamed vegetables.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Baking dish
Saucepan
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can substitute whole wheat noodles for a healthier option.

This chicken noodle bake recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just need a comforting meal after a long day. It’s easy to make ahead, freezes well, and reheats beautifully.

Plus, it’s a relatively healthy option compared to other casseroles. Serve hot with some crusty bread or over rice for a filling meal that’ll leave everyone satisfied.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Chicken Noodle Bake

Q: What type of noodles should I use in this recipe?

I like to use whole wheat noodles for their nutty flavor and higher fiber content, but you can use any type of noodle you prefer.

Q: Can I substitute boneless chicken breasts for the thighs?

Yes, boneless chicken breasts will work just fine in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q: How long does this dish take to prepare?

This casserole comes together quickly – prep time is about 20 minutes – making it a great option for busy weeknights.

Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Sure thing! Just swap out the whole wheat noodles for gluten-free alternatives and be sure to check the ingredients of your favorite brand of pasta sauce.

Q: How do I store leftovers?

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

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