Get ready to wrap yourself in comfort with Dolly’s Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole! This dish is pure nostalgia—think tender egg noodles, shredded chicken, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, all baked under a golden, buttery cracker topping. It’s the kind of meal that fills your kitchen with warmth and brings everyone to the table. I love how simple it is to throw together, using pantry staples and leftover chicken, yet it tastes like a labor of love. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this casserole is ready in under an hour. Let’s bake up some cozy goodness!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting casserole:
3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced – Great for using leftovers or rotisserie.
8 oz wide egg noodles, cooked and drained – Classic noodles for hearty texture.
1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup – Creamy base for the sauce.
1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup – Adds earthy richness.
1 cup sour cream – Tangy, smooth creaminess.
½ cup milk – Thins the sauce just right.
1 teaspoon garlic powder – Easy savory depth.
½ teaspoon onion powder – A subtle sweet note.
Salt and pepper, to taste – Season to your liking.
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided) – Melty, cheesy goodness.
1 cup frozen peas and carrots (optional) – A pop of color and veggies.
½ cup crushed Ritz crackers or buttered breadcrumbs – Crunchy, golden topping.
2 tablespoons melted butter – Binds the topping for extra flavor.
Chopped parsley, for garnish (optional) – A fresh, bright finish.
Gather these ingredients, and you’re set for a cozy meal!
Prep Time & Cook Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes – Quick mixing and assembly.
Cook Time: 35 minutes – Time to bake it bubbly and golden.
Total Time: 50 minutes – Comfort food worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s make Dolly’s Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole with ease—here’s how:
Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
Mix the Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until you’ve got a smooth, creamy mixture.
Add the Good Stuff: Fold in the cooked chicken, cooked egg noodles, frozen peas and carrots (if using), and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until everything’s evenly coated in that creamy sauce.
Assemble the Casserole: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese over the top.
Top It Off: In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Sprinkle this buttery topping evenly over the casserole for that golden crunch.
Bake It: Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes, until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
Serve: Let it cool for 5 minutes to set, then garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy the creamy, cheesy comfort!
Tips & Tricks
Make this casserole even better with these handy hints:
Noodle Prep: Cook noodles just shy of al dente—they’ll soak up sauce in the oven without getting mushy.
Veggie Swap: Skip peas and carrots or try broccoli or green beans for a different twist.
Topping Boost: Add a sprinkle of Parmesan to the cracker topping for extra umami.
Chicken Shortcut: Use rotisserie chicken or canned chicken to save time—just shred or dice it up.
Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole a day ahead, refrigerate, and bake when ready—add 10 minutes if baking cold.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is a meal in itself, but these sides make it a feast:
Green Salad: A crisp salad with ranch dressing for a fresh contrast.
Dinner Rolls: Warm, buttery rolls to scoop up the creamy goodness.
Steamed Asparagus: A simple green side to balance the richness.
Iced Tea: A cold glass for that classic comfort meal vibe.
Storage & Reheating
Here’s how to enjoy this dish later (it’s perfect for leftovers!):
Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to keep it moist. Or microwave in 30-second bursts until hot.
Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat—the topping may soften slightly.
Nutrition Info
This dish is hearty and indulgent! Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving (based on 6 servings):
Calories: 490 kcal
Protein: 28g – From the chicken and cheese.
Fat: 28g (Saturated Fat: 14g) – From the cheese, sour cream, and soups.
Carbohydrates: 32g – Mostly from the noodles.
Fiber: 2g – A bit from the veggies (if used).
Sugar: 3g – Naturally occurring in the milk and soups.
Sodium: 1100mg – Varies with soups and salt; adjust to taste.
Note: Values are estimates and depend on specific brands or portion sizes.
Final Thoughts
Dolly’s Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole is the kind of dish that warms your heart and soul with every cheesy, creamy bite. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to whip up, using ingredients you probably already have, and it delivers big on comfort. Whether you’re feeding a family or just craving a cozy night in, this casserole has you covered. Give it a try, and let me know how it turns out—or if you add your own special touch! Happy baking!
If you meant a different recipe or want something else (like a variation, a social media post, or to combine it with another dish), please let me know, and I’ll get it to you ASAP!