Dolly’s Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe: Cozy Comfort Magic

Comfort and nostalgia mingle in this dollys creamy chicken noodle casserole that transports you straight to grandma’s kitchen.

Warm memories flood back with each cheesy, golden-crusted bite.

Layers of tender chicken, soft noodles, and rich sauce create a harmonious melody of flavors.

Weeknight dinners demand something special, and this casserole delivers pure satisfaction.

Creamy textures and hearty ingredients promise a meal that hugs you from the inside out.

Minimal effort yields maximum deliciousness, making this recipe a total game-changer for busy cooks.

Let’s dive into a culinary experience that’ll become your new dinnertime favorite.

Ingredients Found in Dolly’s Chicken Casserole

• Egg Noodles: Tender pasta that provides the hearty base for this comforting casserole.
• Shredded Chicken: Protein-rich meat that adds substance and flavor to the dish.

• Cream of Chicken Soup, Cream of Mushroom Soup: Condensed soups that create a rich and velvety sauce.
• Sour Cream: Adds tanginess and extra creaminess to the casserole.
• Milk: Helps to thin and blend the creamy mixture smoothly.
• Cheddar Cheese: Provides a sharp, melty cheese flavor throughout the dish.

• Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Paprika, Salt, Pepper: Spices that enhance the overall flavor profile.
• Crackers or Breadcrumbs: Crispy topping that adds a crunchy texture to the casserole.
• Butter: Helps to create a golden, crisp topping when melted with the crackers or breadcrumbs.
• Parsley: Optional garnish that adds a fresh, green touch to the finished dish.

How to Make This Creamy Chicken Casserole

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Crank your oven to a cozy 350F (175C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a generous spray or butter rub to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Noodle Dance

Bring a big pot of water to a rolling boil. Toss in a pinch of salt and cook those egg noodles until they’re just tender.

Once done, drain and set them aside for their starring role.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Magic

• Cream of chicken soup
• Cream of mushroom soup
• Sour cream
• Whole milk
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Paprika
• Salt
• Black pepper

Whisk everything together until you’ve got a smooth, dreamy sauce that’ll make taste buds dance.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Fold in your shredded chicken and those perfectly cooked noodles. Gently mix until every single bit is coated in the luscious creamy goodness.

Step 5: Prepare for Baking Bliss

• Crushed crackers or breadcrumbs
• Melted butter

Sprinkle this crunchy topping evenly across the casserole surface.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Slide the casserole into the oven and bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes. You’re looking for a bubbly, golden-brown top that screams comfort food.

For an extra touch of freshness, sprinkle some chopped parsley on top before serving.

Tips to Keep Casserole Creamy and Comforting

• Cook egg noodles just until al dente to prevent mushiness, ensuring a perfect bite in your casserole.
• Add extra milk or sour cream if the mixture seems too thick, maintaining a creamy, luscious consistency.
• Grate fresh cheddar cheese instead of using pre-shredded for smoother melting and richer flavor.
• Mix panko breadcrumbs with the crackers for an extra crispy, golden-brown crunchy layer on top.
• Assemble the casserole a day ahead and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve for deeper flavor development.

Classic Styles for Chicken Noodle Casseroles

• Spicy Southwest Chicken Casserole: Replace paprika with chili powder, add diced green chilies, and top with pepper jack cheese for a zesty kick.
• Mediterranean Herb Chicken Bake: Incorporate oregano, basil, and feta cheese, then sprinkle with sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean-inspired version.
• Veggie-Loaded Chicken Casserole: Mix in roasted bell peppers, spinach, and zucchini to boost nutrition and add colorful vegetables to the classic recipe.
• Ranch-Style Chicken Noodle Casserole: Swap garlic and onion powders with ranch seasoning mix, and use ranch dressing instead of some milk for a tangy flavor profile.

Pairing Options With Creamy Chicken Casserole

• Crisp White Wine Pairing: Enhance the creamy casserole with a chilled Chardonnay, its buttery notes complementing the rich chicken and cheese flavors perfectly.
• Zesty Side Salad Companion: Prepare a light mixed green salad with tangy vinaigrette to cut through the casserole's richness and add fresh, bright contrast.
• Roasted Vegetable Balance: Serve alongside simple roasted asparagus or green beans to introduce a healthy, slightly crisp element that balances the creamy dish.
• Craft Beer Delight: Select a smooth amber ale or mild wheat beer that won't overpower the casserole but provides a refreshing counterpoint to its creamy texture.

Store Chicken Casserole Without Drying It Out

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Transfer casserole to freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Label with date.

Place individual portions on microwave-safe plate. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until heated through. Add splash of milk to restore creamy texture.

Preheat oven to 350F. Cover casserole with foil to prevent drying. Warm for 15-20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165F. Remove foil for last 5 minutes to crisp topping.

FAQs

• Can I use different types of noodles?

Yes, you can substitute egg noodles with other pasta like rotini, penne, or wide egg noodles. Just ensure they’re cooked al dente.

• Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Absolutely! This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before baking. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to baking time if cooking from cold.

• Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free cream soups, gluten-free noodles, and replace crackers with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.

Chicken Casserole That Tastes Like Home

• Comfort Food Champion: Dive into a creamy, hearty dish that hugs your taste buds with warm, rich flavors and classic chicken noodle goodness.
• Simple Preparation Magic: Combine ingredients in one bowl, mix, and bake – perfect for busy home cooks seeking a delicious meal without complicated steps.
• Family Dinner Winner: Packed with protein, cheesy goodness, and a crispy cracker topping that keeps everyone at the table asking for seconds.
• Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: Great for potlucks, weeknight dinners, or feeding a hungry family with minimal kitchen effort and maximum satisfaction.

Dollys Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe

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4.9 from 29 reviews

• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Dolly’s Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole brings comfort straight from grandma’s kitchen, blending tender chicken, silky noodles, and rich, velvety sauce. Hearty layers promise warmth with each delicious bite that will remind you of cherished family dinners.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Noodles and Base:

• 12 ounces (340 grams) wide egg noodles
• 1 (10.5 ounces/298 grams) can cream of chicken soup
• 1 (10.5 ounces/298 grams) can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup milk

Seasonings and Spices:

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste

Topping:

• 1/2 cup crushed butter crackers (like Ritz) or breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the culinary workspace by heating the oven to 350F (175C) and thoroughly coating a 9×13-inch baking vessel with non-stick spray.
2. Immerse egg noodles in rapidly boiling, salted water. Cook until achieving a tender yet firm consistency, approximately 7-8 minutes. Thoroughly drain and set aside.
3. Create a luxurious sauce by whisking cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, and cheddar cheese together. Incorporate garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until achieving a silky, uniform texture.
4. Integrate shredded chicken and cooked noodles into the creamy mixture. Gently fold ingredients to ensure uniform coating without disrupting the delicate noodle structure.
5. Transfer the entire mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly to create a consistent layer.
6. Craft a crispy topping by combining crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter. Generously distribute this golden mixture across the casserole’s surface.
7. Slide the casserole into the preheated oven. Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes until the top turns golden brown and the interior becomes effervescent and heated through.
8. Optional: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving for an elegant finishing touch.

Notes

• Choose egg noodles that are slightly undercooked to prevent becoming mushy during baking, ensuring a perfect al dente consistency.
• Rotisserie chicken works brilliantly for added flavor and saves preparation time, making the casserole even more convenient.
• Experiment with different toppings like panko breadcrumbs, crushed Ritz crackers, or even sliced almonds for varied texture and flavor profiles.
• Swap regular dairy products with lactose-free alternatives and use gluten-free crackers to make this dish friendly for those with dietary restrictions.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 390 kcal
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 560 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 9 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 1.5 g
• Protein: 27 g
• Cholesterol: 75 mg