Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe ~ Quick & Easy Dinner
CHICKEN NOODLE CASSEROLE RECIPE ~ QUICK & EASY DINNER! is a easy American recipe that serves 6. 350 calories per serving. Recipe by Melanie's Country Cooking on YouTube.
Prep: 30 min | Cook: 45 min | Total: 1 hr 30 min
Cost: $16.12 total, $2.69 per serving
Ingredients
- 1 can Cream of Celery Soup (10.5 oz can)
- 1 can Cream of Chicken Soup (10.5 oz can)
- 1 cup Chicken Broth (Low‑sodium preferred)
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Onion Powder
- 1 tsp Paprika
- 1 tsp Thyme (Dried)
- 1 tsp Salt (Adjust to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Black Pepper
- 1 dash Cayenne Pepper (Optional for heat)
- 1 dash Crushed Red Pepper (Optional for extra heat)
- 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella and Mild Cheddar Cheese (Blend of mozzarella and mild cheddar, shredded)
- 2.5 cups Cooked Rotisserie Chicken (Meat removed from bones, chopped)
- 0.5 bag Frozen Peas and Carrots (Approximately 6 oz, thawed)
- 0.5 bag Egg Noodles (About 8 oz, cooked al dente)
- 0.5 cup Breadcrumbs (Plain or seasoned)
- 2 tbsp Unsalted Butter (Cut into thin pats)
Instructions
Gather and Prepare Ingredients
Open the cans of cream of celery and cream of chicken soup, measure 1 cup chicken broth, and set out all spices, cheese, chicken, frozen peas‑carrots, noodles, breadcrumbs, and butter.
Time: PT5M
Cook Egg Noodles
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add the egg noodles and cook for 6‑7 minutes until just al dente. Drain in a colander and set aside.
Time: PT10M
Temperature: boiling
Mix Soups and Seasonings
In a mixing bowl combine the cream of celery soup, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, salt, black pepper, cayenne, and crushed red pepper. Stir until smooth.
Time: PT3M
Add Cheese, Chicken, and Veggies
Fold in the shredded cheese, chopped rotisserie chicken, and thawed peas‑carrots into the soup mixture. Mix well to distribute evenly.
Time: PT3M
Combine Noodles with Sauce
Add the cooked noodles to the bowl and toss until they are fully coated. If the mixture looks too thick, stir in a splash more chicken broth.
Time: PT2M
Prepare Casserole Dish
Grease the 9x13‑inch casserole dish with a thin layer of butter or non‑stick spray.
Time: PT2M
Transfer and Top
Pour the noodle mixture into the prepared dish, spreading evenly. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the top and dot with the thin butter pats.
Time: PT2M
Bake the Casserole
Place the dish in a pre‑heated 350°F oven and bake for 40‑45 minutes, until the top is golden and the casserole is bubbling.
Time: PT45M
Temperature: 350°F
Rest and Serve
Remove from oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes to set, then cut into squares and serve.
Time: PT5M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 350
- Protein
- 20g
- Carbohydrates
- 30g
- Fat
- 15g
- Fiber
- 2g
Dietary info: Contains dairy, Contains gluten
Allergens: Milk, Wheat, Eggs
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Cream of Celery Soup: Cream of mushroom soup
- Instead of Cream of Chicken Soup: Cream of mushroom soup
- Instead of Chicken Broth: Vegetable broth
- Instead of Garlic Powder: Fresh minced garlic
- Instead of Onion Powder: Finely minced onion
- Instead of Paprika: Smoked paprika
- Instead of Thyme: Italian seasoning
- Instead of Salt: Sea salt
- Instead of Black Pepper: White pepper
- Instead of Cayenne Pepper: Hot sauce
- Instead of Crushed Red Pepper: Red pepper flakes
- Instead of Shredded Mozzarella and Mild Cheddar Cheese: Only cheddar, Only mozzarella
- Instead of Cooked Rotisserie Chicken: Cooked turkey, Cooked ham
- Instead of Frozen Peas and Carrots: Fresh peas and carrots
- Instead of Egg Noodles: Wide egg noodles, Pasta shells
- Instead of Breadcrumbs: Panko
- Instead of Unsalted Butter: Margarine
Equipment Needed
- Mixing Bowl
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula
- Large Pot
- Colander
- 9x13‑inch Casserole Dish
- Oven
- Aluminum Foil (optional)
- Measuring Spoons
- Measuring Cups
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Mixing the soups and broth thoroughly to avoid lumps.
- Cooking noodles only al dente so they don’t become mushy in the oven.
- Topping with butter pats and breadcrumbs for a crunchy crust.
- Baking at 350°F for the full 40‑45 minutes; cover with foil if over‑browning.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use a rotisserie chicken for maximum flavor and convenience.
- Mix half mozzarella and half mild cheddar for a perfect melt and subtle sharpness.
- For extra crunch, toast the breadcrumbs lightly in a dry pan before sprinkling.
Troubleshooting
Casserole is too dry after baking.
Add a few extra tablespoons of chicken broth before baking or cover with foil for the first half of baking.
Top is not browned enough.
Broil for 2‑3 minutes at the end of baking, watching closely to avoid burning.
Noodles are mushy.
Cook noodles al dente next time and ensure they are drained well before mixing.
Storage
Refrigerator: Cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating.
Room temperature: Do not store at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Assemble the casserole up to step 7, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Freeze the unbaked casserole (covered tightly) for up to 2 months; bake from frozen adding 10‑15 minutes to baking time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of Chicken Noodle Casserole in American comfort food cuisine?
Chicken noodle casserole emerged in mid‑20th‑century America as a budget‑friendly way to stretch leftover chicken and pantry staples into a hearty family meal. It reflects the post‑war era’s emphasis on convenience, canned soups, and one‑dish dinners that could feed a household with minimal effort.
What regional variations of chicken noodle casserole exist within United States cuisine?
In the South, cooks often add a splash of hot sauce or use buttermilk in the sauce. In the Midwest, a cream‑based version with corn and green beans is popular. Some New England families incorporate dried herbs like sage for a farmhouse twist.
How is Chicken Noodle Casserole traditionally served in American family gatherings?
It is typically served hot from the oven as a main dish alongside a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. Leftovers are reheated for lunch the next day, making it a staple for potlucks and Sunday family dinners.
During what occasions is Chicken Noodle Casserole commonly prepared in American culture?
The dish is popular for casual weeknight meals, potluck gatherings, and holiday leftovers (especially after Thanksgiving or Christmas when rotisserie chicken is on hand). Its ease makes it a go‑to for busy families.
What authentic ingredients define a classic American Chicken Noodle Casserole versus acceptable substitutes?
Traditional ingredients include canned cream soups (celery or chicken), egg noodles, rotisserie or boiled chicken, frozen peas‑carrots, and a blend of mozzarella and cheddar cheese. Substitutes like cream of mushroom soup, turkey, or different cheese blends work but change the classic flavor profile.
What other American side dishes pair well with Chicken Noodle Casserole?
A crisp garden salad with vinaigrette, buttered green beans, or a simple coleslaw complement the creamy casserole. For a heartier meal, serve with cornbread or garlic bread.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Chicken Noodle Casserole?
Overcooking the noodles, using too much broth which makes the casserole soupy, and skipping the breadcrumb‑butter topping which results in a soggy top are the biggest pitfalls. Also, be sure to season the sauce before adding the cheese.
Why does this Chicken Noodle Casserole recipe use both mozzarella and mild cheddar instead of a single cheese?
Mozzarella provides a stretchy, melty texture while mild cheddar adds a subtle sharpness and richer color. The combination creates a balanced flavor and a pleasing golden crust when baked.
Can I make Chicken Noodle Casserole ahead of time and how should I store it before baking?
Yes. Assemble the casserole up to the breadcrumb topping, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. For longer storage, freeze the unbaked dish, then bake from frozen, adding 10‑15 minutes to the baking time.
What texture and appearance should I look for to know the Chicken Noodle Casserole is done cooking?
The casserole should be bubbling around the edges, and the breadcrumb‑butter topping should be golden‑brown and crisp. A gentle jiggle in the center indicates the interior is set but still creamy.
What does the YouTube channel Melanie's Country Cooking specialize in?
The YouTube channel Melanie's Country Cooking specializes in simple, family‑friendly American comfort food recipes that often use pantry staples, leftovers, and easy‑step techniques suitable for home cooks of all skill levels.
How does the YouTube channel Melanie's Country Cooking's approach to American comfort food differ from other cooking channels?
Melanie's Country Cooking focuses on down‑to‑earth, budget‑conscious meals with a homestyle feel, emphasizing minimal equipment and quick assembly. Unlike more gourmet‑oriented channels, Melanie prioritizes accessibility and the use of everyday ingredients.
Last updated: August 21, 2026






