When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the hearty and creamy goodness of a Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole. This classic American dish combines tender rotisserie chicken, flavorful noodles, and a luscious creamy base topped with a crispy cracker crust. It’s the perfect meal to warm your soul and satisfy your cravings. Let’s dive into the details and bring this delicious casserole to life!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: Using a rotisserie chicken simplifies the prep, saving you time without sacrificing flavor.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal preps.
- Customizable: Swap out the veggies, adjust the spices, or use your favorite cheese to make it your own.
Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Casserole
- 12 oz wide egg noodles – Classic and comforting, these noodles hold the creamy sauce perfectly.
- 1 small rotisserie chicken, shredded – Save time and add rich flavor with pre-cooked chicken.
- 15 oz frozen mixed vegetables, thawed – A blend of peas, carrots, and corn adds color and nutrients.
- 1 & ½ tbsp chicken bouillon seasoning – For that extra savory punch.
- 1 tsp cracked black pepper
- Pinch of salt
- 10.5 oz can cream of celery soup – A creamy base with a touch of celery flavor.
- 10.5 oz can cream of chicken with herbs soup – Adds depth with herbaceous notes.
- 10.5 oz half and half – Creamy and rich without being too heavy.
- 8 oz sour cream – Adds tangy richness.
- 8 oz freshly shredded Colby Jack cheese, divided – Half for the casserole, half for the topping.
For the Topping
- 1 stick butter, divided
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers (about 30 crackers), crushed – Adds that irresistible crispy topping.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Egg Noodles
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, cooked noodles, and thawed vegetables. Sprinkle in chicken bouillon seasoning, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Stir until evenly distributed.
3. Create the Creamy Base
- Add cream of celery soup, cream of chicken with herbs, and half and half to the bowl.
- Stir in sour cream and half of the shredded Colby Jack cheese. Mix until fully incorporated.
4. Assemble the Casserole
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with 1-2 tbsp of butter.
- Spread the creamy chicken noodle mixture evenly into the dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining Colby Jack cheese evenly over the top.
5. Make the Topping
- Melt 6 tbsp of butter in the microwave.
- Stir the crushed Ritz crackers into the melted butter until evenly coated.
- Spread the buttery crackers over the casserole, creating a golden crust.
6. Bake
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake the casserole for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Pair it with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Tips for the Best Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole
- Cheese Selection: Try swapping Colby Jack with cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
- Veggie Variations: Use fresh veggies like broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms for a twist.
- Make-Ahead Option: Assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate. Just pop it in the oven when ready to bake!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 962 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 79 g
- Protein: 42 g
- Fat: 55 g
- Cholesterol: 192 mg
- Sodium: 4324 mg
- Fiber: 5 g
This Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole is the perfect dish to bring comfort and joy to your dinner table. Its creamy texture, rich flavors, and crispy topping will leave everyone coming back for seconds. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is bound to be a favorite!
Give it a try and let us know if this becomes your new go-to casserole. Happy cooking!
