If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug in food form, then get ready to fall in love with The Most Delicious Dolly’s Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe. This dish is the perfect blend of tender chicken, rich creamy sauce, and comforting noodles, all baked to bubbly, golden perfection. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this casserole brings a delightful mix of flavors and a luscious creamy texture that everyone will adore. It’s an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing recipe that turns simple ingredients into something truly special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role to bring out that creamy richness, hearty texture, and pop of color that make this casserole so unforgettable. Let’s break down the essentials you’ll need to make this dish shine.
- 3 cups Cooked chicken: Provides juicy, savory chunks of protein that are the star of the casserole.
- 8 oz Wide egg noodles: Their broad shape holds the creamy sauce perfectly for each bite.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) Cream of chicken soup: Adds a smooth, comforting base flavor to the sauce.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) Cream of mushroom soup: Deepens the flavor profile with a subtle earthiness.
- 1 cup Sour cream: Brings tangy creaminess that enriches the dish’s texture.
- 1/2 cup Milk: Lightens the sauce slightly so it’s luscious but not too thick.
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder: Infuses a gentle warmth and depth of flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon Onion powder: Enhances savory notes without overpowering the dish.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for balancing and boosting all other flavors.
- 1 1/2 cups Shredded cheddar cheese, divided: Melts into gooey goodness inside and creates a cheesy crust on top.
- 1 cup Frozen peas and carrots (optional): Adds a pop of vibrant color plus a sweet crunch for extra nutrition.
- 1/2 cup Crushed Ritz crackers or buttered breadcrumbs: Gives a delightful crunchy topping that contrasts the creamy filling.
- 2 tablespoons Melted butter: Binds the topping ingredients and adds rich flavor.
- Chopped parsley, for garnish (optional): A fresh, bright finish that makes each serving look extra inviting.
How to Make The Most Delicious Dolly’s Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This simple prep ensures your casserole won’t stick and will bake evenly, setting the stage for all the deliciousness to come.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base
In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked egg noodles, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir this all together until the mixture is completely blended and creamy. This step forms the heart of the casserole’s rich, comforting flavor.
Step 3: Add Vegetables and Season
Fold in the frozen peas and carrots if you’re using them — these bring fresh color and a sweet, garden-fresh crunch. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to bring out every nuanced flavor and make the casserole truly sing.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Pour this luscious mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out gently. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese across the top to guarantee an irresistibly cheesy crust once baked.
Step 5: Create the Crunchy Topping
In a small bowl, mix together the crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs with the melted butter until well combined. Then generously sprinkle this mixture over the cheese layer. This topping will bake up crisp and buttery, adding the perfect crunchy contrast.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place your casserole in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until it’s bubbly and the top is lightly browned. The aroma at this point will have everyone gathered around the kitchen, eager for a first taste!
Step 7: Let it Rest and Garnish
Once baked, remove the dish and let it cool for a few minutes. This resting time lets the casserole set a bit for easier serving and allows flavors to meld beautifully. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley if you like a fresh, colorful touch.
How to Serve The Most Delicious Dolly’s Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A simple garnish of chopped parsley or even some freshly cracked black pepper elevates the look and adds a hint of brightness to this rich dish. If you love a little extra cheese, a sprinkle of Parmesan right before serving is divine.
Side Dishes
Serve this creamy casserole alongside a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables to balance its richness and round out your meal. Classic coleslaw or roasted asparagus are also wonderful companions, adding fresh textures and flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, you can spoon the casserole into individual ramekins to give each guest their own cozy portion. Alternatively, top each serving with a drizzle of hot sauce or a dollop of sour cream for a personalized kick.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover your leftover Dolly’s Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, it will stay delicious for up to 3 days, making for easy next-day meals.
Freezing
You can freeze this casserole before baking or after it’s cooked. Wrap it well to prevent freezer burn. When frozen properly, it keeps for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain that fresh, creamy texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftover casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm and bubbly, usually about 15 to 20 minutes. For quicker reheating, microwaving individual portions works well too, just cover loosely to avoid drying out.
FAQs
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen peas and carrots?
Absolutely! Fresh peas and carrots can be lightly steamed beforehand and folded in. Keep in mind fresh veggies might release more moisture, so adjust the seasoning as needed.
Is it possible to make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free egg noodles and substitute the cracker topping with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to keep this recipe safe for gluten-sensitive diners.
Can I substitute other cheeses for cheddar?
Definitely! While cheddar adds a classic sharpness, mozzarella or Monterey Jack can give a milder, creamier experience. Mixing cheeses is also a delicious way to customize flavor.
How long can I prepare the casserole ahead of time before baking?
Prepare the casserole up to a day in advance and keep it covered in the fridge. When ready, just pop it in the oven and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
What’s the best way to shred cooked chicken for this casserole?
The easiest method is to use two forks to pull cooked chicken apart gently. You can also use a stand mixer with a paddle attachment on low speed for a hands-free approach.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about The Most Delicious Dolly’s Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe that makes it a perfect go-to dish for any occasion. It’s filled with comfort, easy to prepare, and blessed with layers of flavor that warm the soul. Give this recipe a try and share it with your loved ones—the smiles and happy bellies will be your best reward!
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The Most Delicious Dolly’s Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Dolly’s Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole is a comforting and delicious baked dish featuring tender chicken, wide egg noodles, creamy soups, sour cream, and melted cheddar cheese. Enhanced with optional peas and carrots for added color and nutrition, and topped with a buttery Ritz cracker crust, this casserole is perfect for a hearty family dinner.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups Cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 8 oz Wide egg noodles, cooked and drained
- 1 can (10.5 oz) Cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) Cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup Sour cream
- 1/2 cup Milk
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 1/2 cups Shredded cheddar cheese, divided
Vegetables (Optional)
- 1 cup Frozen peas and carrots
Topping
- 1/2 cup Crushed Ritz crackers or buttered breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons Melted butter
Garnish (Optional)
- Chopped parsley
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly and set it aside to prepare for the casserole mixture.
- Mix Main Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked egg noodles, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir everything together until the mixture is fully combined and creamy.
- Add Vegetables and Season: If using, gently fold in the frozen peas and carrots to add color and nutrition. Season the mixture with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Pour the creamy mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese on top of the mixture.
- Prepare and Add Topping: In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers or buttered breadcrumbs with the melted butter until well combined. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole to form a crispy topping.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is lightly browned and crisp.
- Cool and Garnish: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired before serving to add a fresh, vibrant touch.
Notes
- Use leftover or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Frozen peas and carrots are optional but add great flavor and color.
- Ensure the noodles are cooked al dente to avoid mushiness after baking.
- Substitute breadcrumbs for Ritz crackers for a different texture.
- Allow casserole to rest slightly before serving to set.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
