When I want a cozy, comforting meal that reminds me of old-fashioned home cooking, I make Dolly’s creamy chicken noodle casserole. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with tender chicken, egg noodles, and vegetables—all baked to perfection under a golden topping. It’s the kind of dish I turn to when I need something satisfying and dependable that the whole family will devour.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this casserole for how easy it is to throw together with everyday ingredients. It’s creamy, cheesy, and full of texture, and it bakes beautifully in one pan. Whether I’m feeding a crowd, meal prepping for the week, or bringing dinner to a friend, this is one of those dishes that never fails to please. It’s the perfect balance of comfort food and convenience.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
-
Egg noodles
-
Cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
-
Cream of mushroom soup
-
Cream of chicken soup
-
Sour cream
-
Frozen peas and carrots (or mixed vegetables)
-
Shredded cheddar cheese
-
Garlic powder
-
Onion powder
-
Salt and pepper
-
Butter
-
Crushed crackers or breadcrumbs (for topping)
-
Optional: parsley or chives for garnish
Directions
-
I start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish.
-
I boil the egg noodles just until al dente, then drain and set them aside.
-
In a large mixing bowl, I combine the soups, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper.
-
I stir in the cooked chicken, vegetables, noodles, and half of the shredded cheese until everything is coated evenly.
-
I pour the mixture into the baking dish and spread it out in an even layer.
-
I top it with the remaining cheese, then sprinkle crushed crackers or breadcrumbs over the top.
-
I drizzle melted butter over the topping for a crisp, golden finish.
-
I bake the casserole uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until hot and bubbly with a golden crust.
-
I let it cool for a few minutes before serving, garnished with fresh herbs if I have them.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 6 to 8 servings.
Prep time takes about 20 minutes, baking time is 30–35 minutes, so I plan for roughly 1 hour total from start to finish.
Variations
-
I sometimes use rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra flavor.
-
For more veggies, I add sautéed mushrooms, broccoli, or green beans.
-
I switch up the cheese by using Monterey Jack or a cheddar blend.
-
To make it a little tangy, I mix in a splash of lemon juice or Dijon mustard.
Storage/reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I microwave individual portions or warm it in the oven at 325°F until heated through. I’ve also frozen this casserole—either baked or unbaked—for up to 2 months. When freezing unbaked, I thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
FAQs
Can I use canned chicken?
Yes, I’ve used canned chicken in a pinch and it works just fine. I just drain it well and fluff it with a fork before mixing.
What if I don’t have both types of soup?
I’ve substituted with two cans of the same type—either cream of mushroom or cream of chicken—and it still tastes great.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. I assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Is this casserole freezer-friendly?
Yes, I freeze it either before or after baking. Just make sure it’s wrapped tightly to prevent freezer burn.
Can I use a different type of noodle?
I’ve tried it with rotini, penne, and even bowties. As long as the pasta is cooked al dente, it holds up well.
Conclusion
Dolly’s creamy chicken noodle casserole is one of those timeless dishes I never get tired of. It’s warm, satisfying, and full of classic flavors that make any meal feel like home. I love how easy it is to customize, make ahead, and freeze—making it a true staple in my kitchen.
Print
Dolly’s Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole: A Hearty, Classic Family Favorite
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6–8 servings
- Category: Main Course, Casserole
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Dolly’s Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole is a classic, cozy family dinner packed with tender egg noodles, shredded chicken, creamy soups, vegetables, and melty cheese. Topped with buttery crackers or breadcrumbs and baked to golden perfection, this comforting casserole is a dependable crowd-pleaser perfect for weeknights or gatherings.
Ingredients
- Egg noodles (cooked al dente)
- Cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- Sour cream
- Frozen peas and carrots (or mixed vegetables)
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Salt and black pepper
- Butter (melted, for topping)
- Crushed crackers or breadcrumbs (for topping)
- Optional: chopped parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
-
Cook egg noodles until al dente, then drain and set aside.
-
In a large bowl, mix cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
-
Add cooked chicken, vegetables, noodles, and half the cheese. Mix well.
-
Spread mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
-
Top with remaining cheese and sprinkle crushed crackers or breadcrumbs over the top.
-
Drizzle melted butter over the topping.
-
Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, until hot and bubbly.
-
Let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with parsley or chives if desired.
Notes
- Rotisserie chicken saves time and adds flavor.
- Mix in sautéed mushrooms, broccoli, or green beans for extra veggies.
- Try Monterey Jack or cheddar blends for a twist on the cheese.
- Add a splash of lemon juice or Dijon mustard for brightness.
- Freezes well baked or unbaked for up to 2 months.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *