Chicken Noodle Casserole – Chicken Noodle Casserole is the ultimate comfort dish. That’s perfect for any family dinner. Or casual gathering. This casserole combines tender chicken, rich cream of chicken soup, sour cream, a hint of ranch seasoning, smoky bacon, and melty cheddar cheese. Topped with crispy Fritos. And ready in just 40 minutes. This easy casserole. Is the definition of a hearty, satisfying meal. Whether you’re looking to feed a crowd. Or enjoy a cozy dinner at home. This dish is sure to become a favorite. In your recipe collection.
The first time I made Chicken Noodle Casserole. I was actually inspired. By a potluck dish. I tasted at a friend’s house. My husband. Always a fan of anything involving bacon and cheese. Insisted we try recreating it at home. I remember getting our son involved. By having him crush the Fritos. His favorite part of the cooking process! When it came out of the oven. The smell alone had everyone gathering around the table in anticipation. The creamy sauce, the tender chicken, and the crunchy topping. All melded together beautifully. Seeing the smiles on their faces. And hearing my son say, “Mom, this is the best!”. Made the effort so worthwhile.
What makes this Chicken Noodle Casserole truly stands out?
Chicken Noodle Casserole stands out. As a perfect combination of convenience. And flavor. It transforms simple ingredients. Into a meal. That’s both filling. And comforting. The ranch dressing mix. Adds a unique twist. That elevates the classic casserole. While the crispy Fritos on top. Provides an unexpected. But delightful crunch. With a prep time of just 15 minutes. And the use of cooked chicken and noodles. This dish is incredibly easy to whip up. On busy weeknights. Whether you’re serving this for dinner. Or bringing it to a potluck. It’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
What You Need To Make This Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe?
Cooked Chopped Chicken: I usually use leftover rotisserie chicken. For ease and added flavor. But any cooked chicken will do. If you prefer making it fresh, grilling or poaching your chicken works perfectly.
Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup: This soup is a classic casserole staple. That provides a creamy base. Opting for the unsalted version lets you control the seasoning better.
Sour Cream: Adds tanginess. And creaminess to the dish. You can substitute it with Greek yogurt. If you’re looking for a lighter option.
Ranch Dressing Mix: This packet brings a zesty flavor. That ties all the ingredients together. Feel free to use a homemade mix if you prefer.
Cooked Chopped Bacon: For an extra smoky taste. Use thick-cut bacon. It’s a favorite in my household. For its heartiness and flavor.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar adds a sharp, cheesy flavor. That complements the creamy sauce. Try using sharp cheddar for an extra kick. Or even mixing in some mozzarella for gooeyness.
Egg Noodles: These are a great choice. Because they hold the sauce well. And remain tender after baking. You can swap them with whole wheat noodles for more fiber.
Crushed Fritos: They offer a crunchy topping. That contrasts nicely with the creamy casserole. If you prefer a different texture. Try substituting it with breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers.
Steps To Make Chicken Noodle Casserole:
Step 1: Cook the Egg Noodles: Start by boiling your egg noodles according to the package directions. Once they’re cooked to perfection. Brain them and set them aside. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 350ºF. Prepare a 9×13-inch pan by lightly spraying it with cooking spray. To prevent sticking.
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Step 2: Prepare the Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chopped chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, ranch dressing mix, chopped bacon, and shredded cheddar cheese. Give it a good stir. Until everything is nicely combined. Then, gently fold in the cooked egg noodles. Make sure they’re coated in the creamy mixture.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole: Pour the chicken and noodle mixture. Into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula. To ensure even cooking. Then, sprinkle the crushed Fritos on top. For that delightful crunchy finish.
Step 4: Bake: Place the casserole in your preheated oven. And bake for 25-30 minutes. Or until it’s heated through. And the top is golden brown. Keep an eye on it towards the end. To avoid burning the Fritos.
Step 5: Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This gives it time to set. And makes serving easier. Enjoy it warm with your favorite side salad or veggies.
Tip:
To elevate your Chicken Noodle Casserole. Consider adding a touch of fresh herbs like parsley or chives. Right before serving. They not only bring a burst of color to your dish. But also enhance the flavors. With a subtle freshness. That balances the richness of the creamy sauce. For an extra creamy casserole. Try blending a bit of cream cheese. Into the sauce mixture. It adds a delightful tanginess. And smooth texture. Additionally, for those who love a bit of heat. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. Can provide a gentle kick. That complements the savory ingredients perfectly. Experiment with these tips. To personalize your casserole. And make it a hit at every meal!
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make this Chicken Noodle Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Assemble it as directed. But hold off on adding the crushed Fritos. Store it covered in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake. Add the Fritos on top. And bake as directed. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. Since the casserole will be cold from the fridge.
Can I freeze Chicken Noodle Casserole?
Certainly! To freeze, assemble the casserole without the Fritos. Place it in a freezer-safe dish. Cover tightly. And freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Add the Fritos. And bake as directed. This is a great way to meal prep. For future dinners.
What sides pair well with this casserole?
Chicken Noodle Casserole is quite hearty on its own. But it pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed broccoli. The crispiness of a side salad with a vinaigrette. Can be a refreshing contrast. To the creamy casserole. Feel free to serve it with whatever you love!
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<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Chicken Noodle Casserole
Ingredients
- 4 c cooked chopped chicken
- 2 10.5 ounces cans Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup
- 1 16 ounces container sour cream
- 1 1 ounce package ranch dressing mix
- ¾ c cooked chopped bacon
- 1 c shredded cheddar cheese
- 12 ounces egg noodles
- 1 c crushed Fritos
Instructions
- Cook the Egg Noodles: Begin by boiling your egg noodles as per the package instructions. Until they're al dente. Drain them. And set them aside for later.
- Preheat the Oven: While your noodles are cooking. Preheat your oven to 350ºF. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. To prevent sticking.
- Mix Everything Together: In a large bowl, combine the cooked chopped chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, ranch dressing mix, cooked bacon, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir these ingredients. Until they are well combined. Then, gently fold in the cooked egg noodles until everything is nicely coated. With the creamy mixture.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the crushed Fritos over the top. Covering the casserole completely. For that perfect crunch.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven. And bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Or until it's heated through. And the top is golden and crispy.
- Serve: Once done, remove the casserole from the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish is great on its own. Or paired with a side salad. For a complete meal.
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
