Classic Chicken Noodle Casserole

This Chicken Noodle Casserole is a deliciously creamy, baked comfort food classic that combines tender chicken, egg noodles, and vegetables in a velvety cheese sauce. Topped with golden, crunchy breadcrumbs and baked to perfection, it’s a hearty, satisfying meal that’s ideal for family dinners. Plus, it’s versatile and easy to prepare, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or cozy weekend meals.

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Ingredients

Casserole Base

• 2 tablespoons salted butter
• 1 small onion (diced)
• 2 ribs celery (diced)
• 2 medium carrots (diced)
• 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon poultry seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon dried thyme leaves
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper (to taste)
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup milk
• 4 ounces cream cheese (block-style, softened)
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (about 4 oz)
• 15 ounces medium egg noodles (1 package)
• 4 cups cooked chicken (shredded or chopped)
• 1 ½ cups frozen peas (thawed)

Topping

• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (about 2 oz)
• ⅔ cup Panko bread crumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven and Boil Noodles

• Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13 baking dish and set aside.
• Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook egg noodles for 1 minute less than directed on the package. Drain well.

1. Prepare the Sauce

• In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, celery, and carrot, cooking for about 5 minutes until softened.
• Stir in the flour, garlic powder, poultry seasoning, salt, thyme, and pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes until the flour mixture is lightly golden.
• Gradually add chicken broth and milk, whisking after each addition to ensure a smooth, creamy sauce. Cook over medium heat until the mixture becomes bubbly and slightly thickened.

1. Finish the Sauce with Cheese

• Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the cream cheese and shredded cheddar until melted and smooth.

1. Assemble the Casserole

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked egg noodles, shredded chicken, thawed peas, and prepared sauce, stirring until well combined.
• Transfer this mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.

1. Add the Topping

• In a small bowl, combine the topping ingredients: shredded cheddar, Panko bread crumbs, and melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole.

1. Bake and Serve

• Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes, or until the dish is heated through and the topping is golden and crisp.
• Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

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Tips for the Best Chicken Noodle Casserole

• Use Rotisserie Chicken for Convenience: To save time, use store-bought rotisserie chicken or any leftover cooked chicken you have on hand.
• Add Veggie Variety: Feel free to add or substitute vegetables according to preference, such as mushrooms, spinach, or chopped bell peppers.
• Make it Ahead: Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just add the breadcrumb topping right before baking for best results.
• Freeze for Later: This casserole freezes well, so consider making a double batch and freezing one for an easy meal later on.

With its creamy filling and crunchy topping, this Chicken Noodle Casserole is sure to become a go-to family favorite!