Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole
Creamy and cheesy, this chicken noodle casserole combines tender cooked chicken, egg noodles, and a blend of flavorful cream soups for a comforting family favorite. Perfect for weeknights, it offers rich tastes with a creamy texture that's sure to satisfy both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- In a large bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom, cream of celery, cream of chicken, and Cheddar cheese soups.
- Add the cooked egg noodles and cooked chicken pieces to the soup mixture, and stir until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a 13 x 9-inch baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven until hot and bubbly, about 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top before baking. If you don’t have all the soups on hand, you can substitute with a homemade cream sauce or use condensed soups from other brands. To add a bit of crunch, top with crushed crackers or breadcrumbs for the last 10 minutes of baking. This dish pairs well with a fresh salad like Layered Club Salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp garden salad for a balanced meal. A light vinaigrette works well to cut through the richness of the casserole. This dish is also excellent for potlucks or family gatherings, as it serves a crowd and is a favorite among chicken recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, ensuring they are heated evenly throughout.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole contains roughly 245 calories, with 8g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is a good source of protein (16% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 932mg per serving (41% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of noodles?
Yes, you can substitute egg noodles with other pasta shapes like rotini or penne. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different noodles may have different cooking times. You want them to be al dente before mixing with the other ingredients.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
What can I do if I want to make it healthier?
To make this dish healthier, consider using low-fat or reduced-sodium versions of the soups. You can also add in some vegetables like peas, carrots, or broccoli to boost the nutritional value. Using whole grain noodles instead of regular egg noodles can also add fiber to the dish.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).