If you are craving a comforting, cheesy dish that feels like a warm hug from the inside, this Chicken Noodle Bake Recipe is exactly what you need. It brings together tender shredded chicken, perfectly cooked egg noodles, and vibrant peas and carrots all smothered in a creamy, cheesy sauce. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual family gathering, this Chicken Noodle Bake Recipe offers both simplicity and hearty flavor in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this Chicken Noodle Bake Recipe are simple staples, but each plays a crucial role in creating its luscious texture and delicious flavor profile. From the creamy chicken soup base to the melty cheeses and fresh veggies, everything comes together beautifully.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced: Use leftover rotisserie chicken or quickly poach chicken breasts for tender protein.
- 8 oz egg noodles, cooked: Egg noodles hold the creamy sauce well and give the dish a comforting chew.
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded: Sharpness from cheddar adds a depth of flavor to the bake.
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded: Mozzarella melts smoothly creating that gooey, cheesy top layer everyone loves.
- 1 cup peas and carrots, mixed: These add a pop of color and a subtle sweetness to balance richer ingredients.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: The creamy base that binds everything together with savory goodness.
- 1 cup milk: Helps thin the soup for a creamy sauce without being too heavy.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds tang and smooth texture that complements the cheese perfectly.
- 1/2 cup onion, finely diced: Provides aromatic flavor that subtly enhances the whole dish.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for a little fragrant kick and added complexity.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Seasoning rounds out the flavors beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional): Adds a mild smoky warmth and a hint of color.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Helps grease the pan and gives a golden crust when dotted on top.
How to Make Chicken Noodle Bake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prep the Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with the butter or non-stick cooking spray to ensure your bake doesn’t stick and develops a lovely golden crust.
Step 2: Combine the Main Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the cooked chicken, cooked egg noodles, peas and carrots, as well as half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese. This combination forms the hearty foundation of the dish.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk the cream of chicken soup, milk, and sour cream until completely smooth. Stir in the minced garlic, diced onion, and optional paprika. Add salt and pepper to taste, creating a sauce that’s rich, tangy, and full of layered flavors.
Step 4: Mix Everything Together
Pour your creamy sauce over the chicken and noodle mixture. Stir everything until combined thoroughly, ensuring every noodle and piece of chicken is coated in that luscious sauce.
Step 5: Transfer and Top
Spread the mixture evenly in your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese on top for a bubbly, cheesy finish. Dot the surface with small pieces of butter; this will help the top develop a golden, flavorful crust as it bakes.
Step 6: Bake and Cool
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and just beginning to brown on the edges. Let your Chicken Noodle Bake Recipe cool for 5 minutes before serving to let the flavors settle and make serving easier.
How to Serve Chicken Noodle Bake Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley or a sprinkle of green onions add a beautiful fresh contrast to the creamy, cheesy bake. If you like a touch of zest, a scattering of crushed red pepper flakes gives a gentle kick without overpowering the comforting flavors.
Side Dishes
This Chicken Noodle Bake Recipe is quite filling on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or some simple steamed vegetables keeps the meal balanced and fresh. Garlic bread or a warm crusty roll can add a lovely textural contrast too.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in ramekins or small cast-iron skillets straight from the oven. This not only looks charming but keeps the dish warm and melty for longer at the table, making every serving feel special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After your meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The Chicken Noodle Bake Recipe will keep well for up to 3 days, and the flavors often meld even more the next day.
Freezing
If you want to make this ahead of time or save extra portions, this bake freezes beautifully. Freeze in an airtight container or freezer-safe dish for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a microwave or oven until warmed through. For best results, cover with foil when reheating in the oven to keep the dish moist and prevent the cheese from getting too browned or dried out.
FAQs
Can I use other types of noodles for the Chicken Noodle Bake Recipe?
Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional and hold the sauce well, you can substitute with rotini, penne, or even small shells if that’s what you have on hand. Just be sure to cook them al dente so they don’t get mushy in the bake.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
You can swap out the chicken for hearty vegetables like mushrooms or a mix of zucchini and bell peppers. Keep the cream of chicken soup in mind though—it should be substituted with a vegetarian cream soup or homemade white sauce to keep it meat-free.
Can I prepare the Chicken Noodle Bake Recipe in advance?
Yes, this recipe is perfect for making ahead. Assemble the entire dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a great option for busy days or meal prepping.
What can I do if I don’t have sour cream?
You can use Greek yogurt as a substitute for sour cream to retain the tangy flavor and creamy texture. Just be sure to add it at room temperature so it blends smoothly into the sauce.
How do I get a crispy topping on my Chicken Noodle Bake Recipe?
Dotted butter on top helps, but you can also sprinkle some seasoned breadcrumbs or crushed crackers mixed with melted butter over the cheese before baking to add crunch and extra flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Noodle Bake Recipe is a total winner for any occasion that calls for cozy, cheesy, and comforting food. It’s straightforward to make, packed with delicious layers of flavor, and easy to adapt to whatever you have on hand. I encourage you to give it a try—you might just find your new family favorite!
Print
Chicken Noodle Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A comforting and hearty Chicken Noodle Bake featuring tender cooked chicken, egg noodles, mixed vegetables, and a creamy cheese sauce baked to golden perfection. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for family dinners and serves 6.
Ingredients
Protein and Pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 8 oz egg noodles, cooked according to package instructions
Vegetables
- 1 cup peas and carrots, mixed (can be frozen or fresh)
- 1/2 cup onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Cheese
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
Sauce
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
Other
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Combine Main Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked egg noodles, peas and carrots, and half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese. This will be the base of the casserole.
- Make the Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, milk, and sour cream until smooth. Stir in the minced garlic, diced onion, and paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste to create a flavorful, creamy sauce.
- Mix Everything Together: Pour the prepared soup mixture over the chicken and noodle mixture. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly coated and combined.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Spread the combined mixture evenly into the greased baking dish, ensuring a level surface for even baking.
- Top with Cheese and Butter: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the top of the casserole. Dot small pieces of butter across the surface to promote browning and add richness.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown around the edges.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. This resting time helps the dish set for easier serving. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- You can substitute mixed frozen vegetables with fresh if available; just ensure they’re cooked or softened beforehand.
- For extra flavor, consider adding herbs such as thyme or parsley to the sauce.
- Use low-fat sour cream and milk for a lighter version of this bake.
- The paprika is optional but adds a subtle smoky depth to the dish.
- This dish can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before baking; just add additional baking time if baking from cold.
