Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole

This post may contain affiliate sales links. Please read my disclosure policy.

Say hello to Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole – a great weeknight meal that comes together in a cinch! Although it’s speedy and therefore perfect for any day of your busy week, it’s still made from scratch, so you can feel good about feeding your family well. Definitely make this a part of your monthly rotation.

Want more casserole ideas? Check out my entire section of chicken casseroles!

You’ll Love This Comforting Chicken Noodle Casserole

The whole family (yes even your picky eater) will love this cheesy chicken noodle casserole and you’ll love how quickly this meal comes together! This easy weeknight meal includes shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, mixed vegetables and egg noodles that are tossed together with a creamy homemade sauce. No canned cream of chicken soup needed here!

Ingredients Needed For This Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole

This list seems long, but I promise you already have most of these simple ingredients in your kitchen!

For the casserole:

• Wide egg noodles: Cooked al dente to hold their shape.
• Butter: Adds richness to the creamy sauce.
• All-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce.
• Chicken broth: Forms the base of the sauce.
• Half & half and sour cream: Create a creamy sauce with a tangy kick.
• Cheddar cheese: Shredded for that cheesy goodness.
• Frozen mixed vegetables: Add color and nutrition.
• Cooked and shredded chicken: Use leftover chicken or store-bought rotisserie chicken.
• Seasonings: Onion powder, poultry seasoning, salt, and black pepper for flavor.

For the topping:

• Bread crumbs: Panko bread crumbs for crunch.
• Butter: Helps the topping brown beautifully.
• Cheddar cheese: Extra cheese for the top of the casserole.
• Fresh parsley: Adds a pop of color.

Variations

• Swap the chicken: Use shredded rotisserie chicken, leftover chicken, skinless chicken breast or even turkey.
• Change the veggies: Substitute green beans or broccoli florets for mixed vegetables.
• Make it creamy: Add a can of cream of chicken soup or cream of mushroom soup for extra creaminess.
• Different noodles: Try a different type of noodle, like penne or shells.
• Add crunch: Use crushed Ritz crackers or torn bread for the topping instead of panko bread crumbs.

How to Make Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole

For full recipe details, including ingredients needed and measurements, see the printable recipe card down below. Here is step by step what you can expect when making this Chicken Noodle Casserole:

1. Preheat Oven + Prep Casserole Dish

Preheat oven to 425° F. Spray a casserole dish (9×13-inch baking dish) with nonstick cooking spray. Set aside.

2. Cook Noodles Al Dente

Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook egg noodles according to package directions for al dente and drain. Set aside.

3. Make the Sauce

In a medium pot, over medium heat whisk butter, flour, and seasonings to form a roux. Cook a couple minutes, whisking frequently. Add chicken broth and bring to a boil, whisking until no lumps remain. 

Lower heat and add half & half and sour cream. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.

4. Add the Noodles, Chicken, Veggies + Cheese

Combine sauce with cooked noodles, frozen veggies, chicken and cheese and leave on heat just until heated through. 

5. Make the Topping

Transfer casserole mixture to the prepared baking dish if needed.

In a small bowl combine panko bread crumbs, melted butter, parsley and cheese. Sprinkle bread crumb mixture over top of casserole, evenly distributing. 

6. Bake + Serve

Bake for 10-15 minutes or until top is golden brown and casserole is bubbly! Serve warm and enjoy!

Side Dish Ideas to Serve with Chicken Noodle Casserole

This creamy casserole checks a lot of the boxes for a balanced meal, but if you’re wanting to add a little more to the dinner table, consider these ideas:

• Garlic Bread or Dinner Rolls – can’t go wrong with bread! Also great to use bread to get all the extra casserole sauce off your plate.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts or Oven Roasted Asparagus – more veggies are always a good idea!
• Caprese Salad – the freshness of this salad can’t be beat!

Storage + Make Ahead Directions for Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole

Allow any leftovers to cool completely to room temperature. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days.

To Make Ahead – assemble casserole as recipe instructions indicate up until baking. Place plastic wrap over the top of the casserole and store in the fridge until ready to bake. Then bake as the directions read.

To Reheat – microwave in 30 second intervals until heated through.

To Freeze – wrap in plastic wrap really well and then with aluminum foil or in a freezer safe container with good fitting lid to prevent freezer burn. This casserole will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. Allow to thaw overnight in the fridge.

FAQ About Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole

More Chicken Recipes to Try!

• Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
• Chicken Parmesan
• Crockpot Italian Chicken Pasta
• Chicken Quesadillas
• Chicken Pot Pie
• Crispy Chicken Wraps
• Tuscan Chicken
• Classic Chicken Noodle Soup
• Pesto Chicken and Rice Casserole

This chicken noodle casserole recipe is a great way to use up leftover chicken or try something new for cozy family dinners. Pair it with a classic chicken pot pie or a creamy casserole like broccoli cheddar chicken for the ultimate comfort food feast. Trust me, the whole family will be asking for seconds next time! The printable recipe card is below! Have a great day, friends!

If you make this recipe, I would really appreciate it if you would give it a star rating and leave your review in the comments! If you have a picture of your finished dish, post it on Instagram using the hashtag #laurenslatest and tagging me @laurens_latest.