What can I use instead of canned chicken in a creamy chicken noodle casserole?

You can replace canned chicken with cooked, shredded chicken breast, store-bought rotisserie chicken, or leftover roasted chicken or turkey. Simply boil chicken breasts until cooked through, then shred or dice them before adding to the casserole. This substitution adds fresher flavor and better texture compared to canned chicken.

Can I replace cream of chicken soup with something else in this recipe?

Yes, cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup work well as substitutes for cream of chicken soup. If you prefer a homemade option, you can make a quick white sauce with butter, flour, milk, and chicken broth to keep the casserole creamy without canned soup.

How should I store leftovers from the creamy chicken noodle casserole?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, cover the casserole with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual servings until hot.

Can I prepare the casserole in advance and bake it later?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day ahead and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Bake it the next day as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s chilled. This makes it convenient for meal planning or entertaining.

Is it possible to freeze the creamy chicken noodle casserole?

Absolutely. Assemble the casserole without baking, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It will keep for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, partially thaw it in the refrigerator and bake, adding extra time as needed to ensure it’s heated through.

Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe With Crispy Topping

Name: Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cans (12.5 ounces each) chunk chicken breast, drained; about 3 cups diced rotisserie chicken; 2 cans (10.5 ounces each) cream of chicken soup (alternatively cream of mushroom or celery); 1 cup mayonnaise (can substitute with sour cream or plain Greek yogurt); 1 cup whole milk or 2%; ½ onion, finely diced; 1 tablespoon dried minced onion; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or any cheese blend); 1 ½ cups frozen peas and carrots or any other frozen vegetables; 12-ounce package egg noodles, cooked and drained; 1 cup panko bread crumbs (regular bread crumbs or crushed crackers can be used as substitutes); 1 stick salted butter (½ cup), melted (prefer real butter for browning)

Description

🍗 Savor the rich creaminess and comforting flavors of this Chicken Noodle Casserole made with a savory sauce and crispy topping.
🥘 This recipe is easy to prepare and ideal for family dinners or meal prepping with versatile ingredient options.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cans (12.5 ounces each) chunk chicken breast, drained

about 3 cups diced rotisserie chicken

2 cans (10.5 ounces each) cream of chicken soup (alternatively cream of mushroom or celery)

1 cup mayonnaise (can substitute with sour cream or plain Greek yogurt)

1 cup whole milk or 2%

½ onion, finely diced

1 tablespoon dried minced onion

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or any cheese blend)

1 ½ cups frozen peas and carrots or any other frozen vegetables

12-ounce package egg noodles, cooked and drained

1 cup panko bread crumbs (regular bread crumbs or crushed crackers can be used as substitutes)

1 stick salted butter (½ cup), melted (prefer real butter for browning)

Instructions

1-Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a small amount of butter. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier later.

2-Step 2: Cook the Noodles Boil the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside. Be careful not to overcook them, as they will continue cooking in the oven. Properly cooked noodles are essential for the perfect texture in your creamy chicken noodle casserole.

3-Step 3: Prepare the Chicken If you are using canned chicken, drain it well and break it into smaller pieces as needed. For rotisserie chicken, remove the skin and bones, then dice or shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. Using high-quality chicken makes a significant difference in the final flavor of your dish.

4-Step 4: Mix the Filling In a large bowl, combine the chicken, cream soup, mayonnaise, milk, onion, cheese, and frozen vegetables. Mix until everything is well incorporated and the sauce is smooth. This step is where the magic happens as all the flavors start to come together.

5-Step 5: Add the Noodles Gently fold in the cooked egg noodles, being careful not to break them. Ensure the noodles are evenly coated with the creamy mixture. This ensures every bite of your chicken noodle casserole is flavorful and satisfying.

6-Step 6: Assemble the Casserole Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the bread crumbs on top in an even layer, then drizzle with the melted butter. The butter helps the breadcrumbs achieve a beautiful golden brown color and delightful crunch.

7-Step 7: Bake to Perfection Bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown. The aroma filling your kitchen will let you know it is almost done!

8-Step 8: Rest and Serve Let the casserole cool slightly for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the sauce to set slightly, making it easier to serve and ensuring the perfect consistency.

Notes

🍗 Use boiled, rotisserie, or leftover roasted chicken or turkey as alternatives to canned chicken.
🧈 For a crispier topping, use real butter when drizzling over bread crumbs.
🥄 Mayonnaise can be replaced with sour cream or Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor and lighter texture.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking, mixing
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving

Keywords: Chicken Noodle Casserole,Creamy Casserole,Crispy Topping,Casserole Dinner