Chicken Noodle Casserole brings all the comfort of the classic soup in a creamy, cheesy bake loaded with chicken, vegetables, and a delightful crunchy topping. This recipe transforms familiar flavors into a hearty, family-friendly dinner that’s sure to become a regular in your rotation.

If you love the timeless appeal of chicken and noodles, be sure to try some other favorite recipes like this Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup or this convenient one-pot Chicken Pot Pie Pasta.

Overhead image of a bubbling golden-brown Chicken Noodle Casserole in a baking dish

Contents

The Ultimate Homemade Chicken Noodle Casserole for Your Family

There’s nothing quite like a warm, bubbling casserole fresh from the oven, especially when it combines the hearty goodness of chicken and noodles with a rich, cheesy sauce. Our Chicken Noodle Casserole recipe takes this classic comfort dish to new heights, offering a perfect blend of savory flavors and satisfying textures. It’s an ideal meal for busy weeknights, special family gatherings, or whenever you crave a taste of pure comfort.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Noodle Casserole

Unmatched Comfort: This casserole is the epitome of comfort food, reminiscent of your favorite chicken noodle soup but in a more substantial, bakeable form.
Homemade Goodness: Say goodbye to canned “cream of” soups! Our recipe features a luscious, homemade creamy cheese sauce that’s bursting with flavor and free from unwanted additives.
Packed with Flavor: From perfectly seasoned chicken to tender pasta and a medley of colorful vegetables, every bite is a harmonious blend of deliciousness.
Family Favorite: Loved by both kids and adults, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that satisfies even the pickiest eaters.
Crunchy Topping: The optional, yet highly recommended, buttery panko topping adds an irresistible crunch that elevates the entire casserole experience.
Versatile & Adaptable: Easily customize it with your favorite vegetables, different types of pasta, or even make it ahead of time for ultimate convenience.

Quick Tip: Explore More Comforting Casseroles

Craving more delicious bakes? We certainly are! Here are a few other fantastic casserole recipes to try: Creamy Chicken Divan, Chicken Tortellini Bake, Chicken Poppy Seed Casserole, our one-pan Tuna Casserole, the hearty Crockpot Cowboy Casserole, and this vibrant Tortellini Vegetable Bake.

Process shots showing butter, seasonings, and flour being sautéed in a pot to start the creamy sauce

Crafting Your Perfect Chicken Noodle Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

Making this Chicken Noodle Casserole involves four key components that come together harmoniously to create an unforgettable meal: the pasta, the chicken, the vegetables, and the star of the show – the creamy, cheesy sauce. Here’s a detailed overview along with essential tips to ensure your casserole is nothing short of perfect:

Perfectly Cooked Pasta: The foundation of any great noodle casserole.
- Salt the Water Generously: This is crucial for seasoning the pasta from within, adding depth of flavor that can’t be achieved by simply salting the sauce later.
- Al Dente is Key: Cook your pasta for approximately 1 minute less than the shortest time recommended on the package. Since the pasta will continue to cook and absorb liquid in the oven, this ensures it remains perfectly tender and not mushy after baking. Rotini works wonderfully as it holds the sauce well, but egg noodles are also a classic choice for a more old-fashioned feel.
Flavorful Chicken: The protein powerhouse of your casserole.
- Seasoning Matters: The more flavorful your chicken, the better your overall casserole will taste. Whether you’re using leftover cooked chicken, rotisserie chicken, or freshly cooked chicken breasts, ensure it’s well-seasoned with complementary herbs and spices.
- Harmonious Flavors: Stick to seasonings that align with the casserole’s creamy profile, such as poultry seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried herbs. Avoid overly spicy, Asian-inspired, or BBQ-flavored chicken, as these profiles won’t blend well with the cheesy cream sauce.
Wholesome Vegetables: Adding color, texture, and nutrition.
- Convenience is King: For ultimate simplicity and time-saving, opt for frozen diced vegetables. They’re already prepped and ready to go!
- Classic Choices: The combination of peas, corn, and carrots is traditional for chicken noodle soup and works beautifully in this casserole. Feel free to use your family’s favorite medley.
- Fresh Option: If using fresh vegetables, blanch them briefly before adding to the casserole to ensure they are tender.
The Star: Cheesy Cream Sauce: The homemade base that binds everything together.
- From Scratch Superiority: This homemade sauce is a game-changer. Not only does it allow you to avoid the chemicals and unknown ingredients often found in canned “cream of” soups, but it also delivers a far richer, fresher, and more robust flavor profile.
- Building a Roux: The sauce starts with a classic roux (butter and flour) to create a thick, velvety base.
- Gradual Milk Addition: Slowly whisking in milk ensures a smooth, lump-free sauce. More detailed tips on perfecting this below!

Process shots showing milk being added to the roux and cooked to thicken for the sauce

Mastering Your Homemade Creamy Cheese Sauce

The success of this Chicken Noodle Casserole largely hinges on the creamy, flavorful homemade cheese sauce. This isn’t just any sauce; it’s a rich, velvety concoction that elevates every ingredient. Here are a few expert tips to ensure your cheese sauce is absolutely perfect:

Choose Flavorful Cheese:
- Go for Sharpness: Sharp or extra-sharp Cheddar cheese will provide a much richer, more pronounced flavor compared to mild Cheddar. The aging process in sharper cheeses develops complex notes that truly stand out in a creamy sauce.
- Seasoning is Key: If your cheese sauce seems to lack depth, it might be due to insufficient aging of the cheese or, more commonly, simply needing a touch more salt to bring out the flavors. Taste and adjust!
Grate Your Own Cheese:
- Avoid Anti-Clumping Agents: Pre-packaged shredded cheese often contains anti-clumping coatings (like cellulose) that can prevent the cheese from melting smoothly. This can result in a grainy or powdery sauce texture.
- Superior Melt & Texture: Grating your own block of cheese ensures a superior melt and a beautifully smooth, luxurious sauce every time. It’s a small effort with a big payoff in quality.
Thicken the Sauce Properly:
- Patience is a Virtue: This recipe uses a generous 4 cups of milk, so it takes a little time to reach the perfect consistency. Don’t rush the process; keep stirring over medium-high heat.
- The Spoon Test: To determine if your sauce is adequately thickened, stir it well and then lift your spoon. Draw a clear line across the back of the spoon with your fingertip. If the line remains distinct and doesn’t immediately flow back together, your sauce is thick enough. If it’s too thin, continue to gently simmer and stir for a few more minutes until it passes the test.
- Constant Whisking: Throughout the thickening process, especially when adding the milk and bringing it to a boil, consistent whisking is essential to prevent lumps and ensure even cooking.

Process shots showing cheese being stirred into the cream sauce and cooked pasta being drained

Delicious Variations to Customize Your Casserole

This Chicken Noodle Casserole is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences or what you have on hand. Get creative with these delicious variations:

Old-Fashioned Egg Noodle Casserole: For a more traditional, home-style feel, simply replace the rotini pasta with an equal amount of wide egg noodles. While rotini holds up exceptionally well and captures the sauce beautifully, egg noodles offer a soft, comforting texture that many adore.
A Lighter, Healthier Casserole Option: To reduce the calorie count slightly, you can make a few adjustments without sacrificing too much flavor. Omit the crunchy panko topping entirely, use 1% milk instead of whole milk in the sauce, and slightly reduce the amount of cheese by about 1/2 cup. While these changes will make the casserole a bit healthier, be aware that you might notice a subtle difference in richness and texture.
Chicken Noodle Casserole with Broccoli: Boost the vegetable content by incorporating broccoli! Simply add 1 cup of finely diced fresh or frozen broccoli florets to the pasta water during the last 1 minute of boiling. Drain the pasta and broccoli together, and then proceed with the recipe as usual. The broccoli will be perfectly tender and complement the other vegetables beautifully.
Add Mushrooms or Spinach: Sautéed mushrooms can add an earthy depth, while wilted spinach (added at the same time as the other vegetables) boosts nutrients and color.
Spice it Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes in the sauce can add a subtle kick if you enjoy a little heat.

Process shots of assembling the Chicken Noodle Casserole with pasta, veggies, chicken, cream sauce, cheese, and buttered panko

Smart Shortcuts for an Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole

Life can be hectic, but that doesn’t mean you have to compromise on a delicious homemade meal. These clever shortcuts will help you get this Chicken Noodle Casserole on the table with minimal fuss:

Pre-Prepped Veggies are Your Friend: I highly recommend using frozen diced vegetables (like peas, carrots, and corn) for this recipe. They require absolutely no chopping or prep, saving you valuable time and effort. Just toss them in!
Seasoning Simplification: Instead of laboriously chopping fresh onions and garlic, rely on convenient garlic powder and onion powder. These pantry staples provide excellent flavor with zero prep work.
Utilize Pre-Cooked Chicken: This is arguably the biggest time-saver! Use pre-cooked chicken, such as a store-bought rotisserie chicken that you shred or dice. Many grocery stores also offer pre-sliced roasted or grilled chicken, which is perfect for this casserole. This eliminates the need to cook chicken from scratch. You can find tips for making delicious grilled chicken if you prefer to cook your own.
Strategize with Make-Ahead Components: To streamline mealtime, you can prepare several components in advance. I often cook the pasta, chop (or thaw) the veggies, and dice the chicken ahead of time. Keep these ingredients separate from the sauce to prevent the pasta from absorbing too much liquid and becoming soggy. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine all the elements, pour into your casserole dish, and assemble. You may need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the bake time since the ingredients will be cold from the refrigerator.
Double the Recipe: Make an extra batch and freeze one for another busy night. Future you will thank you!

Up close overhead image of the fully baked and golden-brown Chicken Noodle Casserole, ready to be served

What to Serve with Your Hearty Chicken Noodle Casserole

One of the many wonderful things about this Chicken Noodle Casserole is that it’s truly an all-in-one meal. It’s a complete package, offering carbohydrates from the pasta, protein from the tender chicken, healthy fats from the rich cheese sauce, and a generous helping of nutrient-rich vegetables. However, a well-chosen side dish can elevate the dining experience even further. Here are our favorite accompaniments to complement this comforting bake:

Light and Fresh Salads: A crisp, refreshing salad provides a welcome contrast to the richness of the casserole.
- A quick and vibrant Italian Salad
- A simple yet satisfying Garden Salad
- Our go-to everyday Salad Recipe
- A flavorful copycat Olive Garden Salad
Roasted Vegetable Sides: Roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and a lovely caramelized texture.
- Classic Roasted Broccoli
- Flavorful Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts
- A colorful medley of Easy Roasted Vegetables
Cool, Crisp, and Crunchy Sides: These offer a textural counterpoint and refreshing bite.
- A refreshing Cucumber Salad
- A unique and delightful Apple Fennel Salad
Fresh Fruit Options: A light fruit salad can be a wonderful, palate-cleansing finish.
- A sweet and creamy Creamy Fruit Salad
- A seasonal Winter Fruit Salad
- Our versatile Fruit Salad Recipe for any time of year
Hearty Breads: Perfect for soaking up every last bit of that delicious creamy sauce.
- An easy-to-make No-Knead Bread
- Soft and fluffy no-knead Dinner Rolls

More Irresistible Chicken Recipes to Enjoy

Buffalo Chicken Pasta with a zesty Alfredo and Buffalo sauce blend
Light and flavorful Teriyaki Chicken Salad featuring a simple three-ingredient dressing
Classic Chicken Fajitas loaded with perfectly charred peppers and onions
Exotic Moroccan Chicken served elegantly over fluffy couscous
Comforting Chicken And Broccoli Pasta smothered in a rich, cheesy cream sauce

Storage and Reheating Tips for Leftovers

This Chicken Noodle Casserole is just as delicious the next day! If you have any leftovers, simply transfer them to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. To reheat, you can use the oven (covered with foil to prevent drying, until warmed through) or microwave individual portions. Add a splash of milk or broth if the sauce seems too thick upon reheating.

Chicken Noodle Casserole

By Chelsea Lords

Chicken Noodle Casserole takes all the cozy flavors of chicken noodle soup and turns them into a creamy, cheesy bake with tender chicken, plenty of veggies, and a crunchy topping!

Prep Time: 25 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Servings: 6 servings

Pin Recipe
Print Recipe

Equipment

9 x 13-inch baking pan
Medium nonstick pot

Ingredients

12 ounces rotini pasta (about 4 cups, see Note 1)
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1/4 teaspoon celery seed (optional)
2 teaspoons chicken bouillon powder
Salt and pepper (to taste)
4 cups whole milk (see Note 2)
2 teaspoons Dijon-style mustard (optional)
2 cups sharp Cheddar cheese (divided, see Note 3)
1-1/2 cups cooked chicken (diced rotisserie or leftover cooked chicken)
1 (12-ounce) bag frozen peas and carrots
1 cup frozen corn
3/4 cup breadcrumbs and 2 tablespoons butter (for optional topping, see Note 4)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish. Measure out the milk and set aside. Remove frozen peas, carrots, and corn from the freezer and allow them to stand at room temperature to temper slightly.
Generously salt a large pot of water (I recommend 1 teaspoon fine sea salt per 4 cups of water). Cook the pasta according to package directions, but subtract 1 minute from the shortest recommended cooking time. Drain the pasta (do not rinse), allow it to cool slightly, then pour it directly into the prepared casserole dish.
Optional Topping: If desired, prepare the crunchy topping (see Note 4).
In a nonstick pot, melt the 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add all the seasonings (garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried parsley, celery seed if using, chicken bouillon powder) plus salt and pepper to taste (I typically add 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper). Stir well.
Sprinkle the 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour over the seasonings and whisk briskly until a dough-like mixture (roux) forms. Cook, whisking constantly, for 1 minute.
Very gradually pour in 1/2 cup of milk, whisking constantly until the mixture forms a smooth, thick paste. Gradually add the remaining milk, 1/2 cup at a time, continuing to whisk briskly and constantly until all the milk is incorporated and the sauce is smooth.
Increase the heat to high and bring the sauce to a boil, stirring frequently to prevent it from sticking to the bottom. Boil for 3 minutes, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Continue to simmer, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is nicely thickened. This usually takes about 5-8 minutes. (To test for thickness, draw a line across the back of a spoon with your fingertip; if the line holds without the sauce running back together, it’s ready.)
Remove the sauce from heat and let it cool for 2 minutes. Stir in the Dijon mustard (if using) and 1-1/2 cups of shredded Cheddar cheese until completely melted and smooth.
To the casserole dish containing the pasta, add the diced cooked chicken, thawed frozen peas, carrots, and corn. Pour the creamy cheese sauce over all the ingredients and stir gently until everything is thoroughly coated. Smooth the mixture into an even layer in the dish.
Evenly sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of Cheddar cheese over the casserole. If using, top evenly with the prepared panko breadcrumb topping.
Bake for 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious homemade Chicken Noodle Casserole!

Recipe Notes

Note 1 (Pasta Measurement): Most packages of rotini or penne pasta are either 12 ounces (the perfect amount for this recipe!) or 16 ounces. If you purchase a 16-ounce package, simply remove 1 and 1/4 packed cups of dry pasta to use in a different recipe. The remaining 12 ounces (approximately 4 cups) will be the ideal quantity for this casserole.

Note 2 (Milk Choice): This recipe is designed to be wonderfully creamy. Using lower-fat milk options (like 1% or 2%) will result in a less creamy dish, though still tasty. Unfortunately, skim milk or non-dairy milk alternatives do not achieve the same rich texture and consistency in this particular recipe.

Note 3 (Cheese Selection): Always use sharp or extra-sharp Cheddar cheese for the most robust and flavorful sauce. It is highly recommended to shred your own cheese from a block. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-clumping agents (like cellulose) that can affect both the texture and the melting quality of your sauce. If your sauce lacks flavor, consider adding a touch more salt to enhance the cheese notes.

Note 4 (Optional Topping): To create the optional crunchy panko topping, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once melted, add 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs and a generous 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Stir constantly until the panko is lightly golden brown and toasted. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole before baking. For a quicker method, you can melt the butter in the microwave and then mix in the panko and salt.

Nutrition Note: The provided nutrition information for this recipe does not include the optional panko topping.

Storage: To store any leftover Chicken Noodle Casserole, transfer it to an airtight container and refriger place it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze portions for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until thoroughly warmed through, adding a splash of milk or broth if the sauce appears too thick.

Nutrition

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should only be used as an approximation.

Enjoy creating this heartwarming Chicken Noodle Casserole, a dish that truly brings everyone to the table!