cheesy chicken noodle casserole recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best cheesy chicken noodle casserole recipe

I have to say, I’m absolutely in love with this cheesy chicken noodle casserole recipe. It’s one of those comfort foods that never fails to put a smile on my family’s faces. The moment I take it out of the oven, the aroma wafting from the kitchen is just irresistible.

My kids, who can be quite picky at times, devour this dish without any complaints. And let me tell you, it’s not just about the taste; it’s about the memories we create while sharing a meal together. This recipe has been a staple in our household for years, and I’m sure it will become one in yours too.

As a busy mom, I appreciate how easy it is to prepare and cook this casserole. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion like a family gathering or holiday party. Plus, it’s packed with protein from the chicken and vegetables, making it a relatively healthy option compared to many other casseroles out there.

The key to this recipe lies in the combination of tender chicken, creamy cheese sauce, and al dente noodles. It’s all about balancing flavors and textures so that each bite is a delight. I’ve experimented with various variations over the years, but this original recipe remains my favorite.

What I love most about this casserole is how versatile it is. You can serve it as is or add some extra toppings like crispy bacon bits or chopped scallions for added flavor and texture. I’ve shared this recipe with friends and family countless times, and everyone who tries it becomes hooked instantly.

It’s one of those recipes that transcends generations and cultures – everyone loves it! So go ahead and give this cheesy chicken noodle casserole recipe a try! Your taste buds (and your family) will thank you.

Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole

4.5 from 1924 votes

A comforting and hearty dish featuring tender chicken, perfectly cooked noodles, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce. This casserole is easy to prepare and perfect for a family dinner.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Noodles

8 oz egg noodles

For the Chicken

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts

For the Sauce

2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder

For the Topping

1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp olive oil

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2Prepare a large pot of salted water and bring it to a boil.
3Cook egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
4Make sure the noodles are fully cooked.
5While the noodles are cooking, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
6Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and cook the chicken until it is no longer pink in the middle and the juices run clear.
7Set the cooked chicken aside to cool, then chop it into bite-sized pieces.
8The chicken should be golden brown on the outside.
9In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
10Add the flour and stir to form a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes until it turns a light brown color.
11Gradually whisk in the milk, and continue to cook until the sauce thickens.
12This should take about 5 minutes.
13Add the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder to the sauce.
14Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
15If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more milk to reach your desired consistency.
16The sauce should be creamy and velvety.
17In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked noodles, chopped chicken, and cheese sauce.
18Stir until the noodles and chicken are well coated.
19Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
20The mixture should be evenly distributed in the dish.
21In a separate bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
22Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
23The topping should be evenly distributed and lightly pressed into the casserole.
24Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.
25This indicates that the casserole is fully cooked and the topping is crispy.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Baking dish
Mixing bowl
Skillet

📊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 add your favorite vegetables, such as peas or carrots, to make it more nutritious. For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.

This cheesy chicken noodle casserole recipe has been a staple in our household for years, and I’m confident it will become one in yours too! It’s perfect for any occasion – whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special dish to serve at your next family gathering or holiday party.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how easily you can customize it to suit your tastes. Want to add some extra veggies?

Go ahead! Want to substitute different types of cheese?

You do you! This casserole reheats beautifully in the microwave or oven, making it an ideal solution for busy families like mine.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole

Q: What type of noodles should I use?

I recommend using egg noodles for this recipe as they hold up well to the creamy cheese sauce.

Q: Can I use leftover chicken?

Yes, you can definitely use leftover cooked chicken if you prefer.

Q: How do I prevent the casserole from becoming too soggy?

To avoid sogginess, make sure to cook the noodles al dente before mixing them with the cheese sauce.

Q: Can I add other vegetables like carrots or peas?

Of course! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to make the dish more nutritious.

Q: How long does this casserole keep in the fridge?

This casserole keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

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