If you’re on the hunt for a comforting, soul-satisfying dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Homemade Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe is about to become your new go-to. It combines tender shredded chicken, perfectly cooked egg noodles, and a medley of colorful vegetables, all wrapped up in a creamy, savory sauce topped with gooey cheese. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this casserole provides that cozy homestyle goodness with just the right hint of freshness and zing from the lemon and Italian seasoning. Let me share this fantastic recipe with you so you can enjoy the blend of textures and flavors that make this dish truly unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients just right is key to nailing this casserole’s perfect balance of flavor and texture. Each component plays an essential role, whether it’s the creamy sauce, the hearty chicken, or the colorful vegetables that brighten up the dish.
- 12 ounces wide egg noodles: Cooked al dente, these noodles provide a tender yet chewy base that soaks up the creamy sauce beautifully.
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded: A hearty protein source that adds richness and satisfying bite.
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables: Peas, carrots, corn, and green beans offer vibrant color and subtle sweetness.
- 1 large onion, diced: Introduces a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor when sautéed.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a fragrant punch that complements the chicken and veggies.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Essential for creating the roux that thickens the creamy sauce.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Balances the richness of butter and keeps the sautéed vegetables from sticking.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: The thickening agent for that luscious sauce coating every ingredient.
- 2 cups chicken broth: Adds savory depth and moisture to the casserole.
- 1 cup milk: Creates creaminess without overpowering the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brings a fresh, zesty brightness to lift the dish.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that tie the flavors together perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the savory notes throughout the casserole.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle warmth that rounds out the seasoning.
- 2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese: Melts beautifully for a gooey, flavorful topping.
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional): For a pop of vibrant color and fresh herbal aroma at serving.
How to Make Homemade Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cooking the egg noodles al dente according to package instructions. While they drain, shred your cooked chicken and get your veggies ready. Having everything prepped makes assembling the casserole a breeze.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter along with the olive oil. Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking them until softened and fragrant, about 4 minutes. This step lays the flavorful foundation for your creamy sauce that’s anything but boring.
Step 3: Make the Roux and Sauce
Sprinkle in the flour and stir continuously for 1 to 2 minutes to form a smooth roux—this helps thicken the sauce without lumps. Then, gradually pour in the chicken broth and milk, whisking constantly to blend everything seamlessly. Cook this mixture for about 5 minutes until it thickens into a rich, creamy sauce that hugs every bite of your casserole.
Step 4: Season the Sauce
Stir in lemon juice, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. This combination brings a perfectly balanced savory, herby, and slightly tangy flavor profile that makes this casserole anything but ordinary. Trust me, this little twist is a game changer.
Step 5: Combine Chicken, Veggies, and Noodles
Add your shredded chicken, frozen mixed vegetables, and cooked noodles straight into the skillet with the sauce. Mix everything gently but thoroughly until all the ingredients are well coated and evenly distributed—this is where magic starts to happen.
Step 6: Assemble the Casserole
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and pour the entire mixture into it, spreading it out evenly. Then, generously sprinkle the shredded Colby Jack cheese over the top. This layer will melt down to a golden, bubbly crown that makes this Homemade Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe extra special.
Step 7: Bake Until Bubbly and Perfect
Pop the casserole into the preheated oven and let it bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling, and the casserole is heated through. The scent wafting through your kitchen will have everyone eagerly waiting for that first cheesy forkful.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a bright splash of color and welcome freshness that complements the richness of the dish. Serve it warm and watch it disappear fast!
How to Serve Homemade Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped parsley is the classic choice because it adds a lovely green contrast and a hint of herbal brightness. If you want to get creative, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or crushed toasted breadcrumbs can lend extra texture and flavor.
Side Dishes
This casserole is a complete meal, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed green beans adds a fresh crunch and balances the richness. For a heartier spread, garlic bread or a warm dinner roll makes an irresistible accompaniment.
Creative Ways to Present
For potlucks or casual dinners, serve this casserole in individual ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets for a personal touch. You can also sprinkle colorful diced red bell pepper or a drizzle of hot sauce over each serving to elevate both presentation and taste.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After you’ve enjoyed your casserole, pack any leftovers tightly in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making easy lunches or dinners just a microwave away.
Freezing
The Homemade Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe freezes wonderfully. To freeze, assemble the casserole but don’t bake it; cover tightly with foil and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake it straight from frozen, adding extra baking time as needed.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers covered in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to keep the creamy texture intact. Or use the microwave for quick reheating, stirring halfway through so the casserole heats evenly and the cheese stays deliciously melty.
FAQs
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh vegetables like peas, carrots, and green beans work wonderfully. Just blanch or steam them lightly before mixing in to maintain the perfect texture and vibrant color.
Is this casserole suitable for meal prepping?
Definitely. The recipe holds up well refrigerated or frozen, making it a great meal prep option for busy weeks when you want a home-cooked meal without the fuss.
Can I substitute the chicken with turkey or another protein?
Yes! Shredded turkey is a great alternative, especially if you have leftovers from a roast. You could also experiment with cooked ham or even a vegetarian protein like tofu, adjusting the seasonings slightly.
What kind of cheese can I use instead of Colby Jack?
Colby Jack melts beautifully, but you can swap it out for cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a mozzarella blend. Each will add its own unique flavor and texture, so feel free to use your favorite melting cheese.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
You can use gluten-free noodles and substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for thickening the sauce. Just be sure to choose gluten-free chicken broth as well to keep it safe.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about being able to whip up a comforting Homemade Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe that everyone enjoys. It’s hearty, full of flavor, and perfect for any occasion when you want food that feels like home. Give this recipe a try—you might just find your new favorite family classic that’s both simple to make and impossible to resist.
Print
Homemade Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Homemade Chicken Noodle Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish featuring tender shredded chicken, wide egg noodles, and mixed vegetables blended in a creamy, flavorful sauce made with chicken broth, milk, and a touch of lemon juice. Topped with melted Colby Jack cheese and baked until bubbly, it’s perfect for a family dinner or potluck gathering.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 ounces wide egg noodles, cooked al dente
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, green beans)
- 2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole later.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for about 4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Make Roux: Stir in the flour to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to form a roux that will thicken the sauce.
- Add Liquids: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Continue cooking for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Season Sauce: Stir in the lemon juice, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to add brightness and flavor to the sauce.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked shredded chicken, frozen mixed vegetables, and cooked egg noodles to the skillet. Mix thoroughly to evenly coat all components with the sauce.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Pour the combined casserole mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the shredded Colby Jack cheese evenly over the casserole’s surface.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden, and the casserole is heated through.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
- For the best flavor, cook the egg noodles just until al dente so they don’t become mushy when baked.
- You can substitute the mixed vegetables with fresh veggies if preferred, just ensure they are partially cooked or sautéed before mixing.
- If you want a lighter version, use low-fat milk and reduce the butter to 1 tablespoon.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Feel free to add a crunchy topping like breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter for added texture.
