The Ultimate Comfort Food Classic You’ll Want to Make Again and Again
Ready to cozy up with a warm, creamy, and crowd-pleasing casserole? Dolly’s Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole is your go-to dish for family dinners, potlucks, or when you need something simple, satisfying, and delicious on the table.
Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of a homemade casserole bubbling away in the oven. A timeless dish that warms the heart and fills the belly, Dolly’s Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole is everything you want from a family-friendly recipe: rich, creamy, cheesy, and full of tender chicken and noodles.
This casserole is a spin on a Southern classic—layered with cooked chicken, egg noodles, creamy soups, melty cheddar, and topped with a golden, buttery cracker crust. It’s an easy, budget-friendly recipe made with pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients. Plus, it’s completely customizable to fit what you already have on hand.
Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or just want leftovers to enjoy the next day, this dish checks all the boxes for a comforting, hearty, and foolproof dinner.
Tools Needed, Servings, and Cooking Time
Tools You’ll Need:
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Small mixing bowl (for the topping)
- Aluminum foil (optional for covering during storage)
- Oven
Servings:
- Makes 6 hearty portions
Prep Time:
- 15 minutes
Cooking Time:
- 35 minutes
Total Time:
- 50 minutes
This casserole is perfect for busy weeknights, potluck dinners, or lazy Sundays at home.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to make Dolly’s Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole:
Main Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works perfectly)
- 8 oz wide egg noodles, cooked and drained
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (optional)
Topping:
- ½ cup crushed Ritz crackers or buttered breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Dish
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Create the Creamy Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and milk. Add in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until all ingredients are fully incorporated and smooth.
This is the rich, savory foundation that gives the casserole its creamy texture and flavor.
Step 3: Add the Chicken, Noodles, and Veggies
To the soup mixture, add the shredded cooked chicken, cooked egg noodles, and, if using, the frozen peas and carrots. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are coated in the sauce.
Then, fold in 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese, leaving the remaining ½ cup for topping.
Step 4: Transfer to the Baking Dish
Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly so that it bakes uniformly.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Crunchy Topping
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the casserole.
In a small bowl, mix together the crushed Ritz crackers or buttered breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly on top of the casserole to create a crisp, golden crust.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden and the casserole is hot and bubbling.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes to set slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Tips for Recipe Success
- Use rotisserie chicken: It’s a time-saving shortcut that adds depth of flavor. You can also use leftover baked or poached chicken.
- Cook noodles al dente: Slightly undercook your egg noodles, as they’ll continue to cook and absorb moisture in the oven.
- Don’t skip the topping: The buttery cracker crust adds a necessary crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
- Add vegetables: Frozen peas and carrots are great, but you can also add steamed broccoli, spinach, or even mushrooms.
- Make it your own: Feel free to add a pinch of paprika, a sprinkle of Parmesan, or a dollop of cream cheese for extra richness.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm with a side salad or steamed green beans for a well-rounded meal.
- Add a slice of garlic bread or a buttermilk biscuit to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Perfect for family dinners, meal trains, or holiday potlucks.
Storage Instructions:
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
- Freezer: This casserole freezes beautifully. Wrap tightly with foil or transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals or in the oven at 325°F until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add the cracker topping and bake as instructed.
2. What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
You can substitute with another can of cream of chicken soup, or use cream of celery for a lighter flavor. If you want a homemade option, you can make a simple roux-based white sauce with sautéed mushrooms.
3. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes. Use gluten-free egg noodles, gluten-free cream soups, and substitute the cracker topping with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
4. What other cheeses work well in this recipe?
While cheddar is classic, you can use Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or Colby Jack for a milder flavor. A sprinkle of Parmesan on top also adds a sharp kick.
5. Is this casserole kid-friendly?
Absolutely. It’s creamy, cheesy, and mild—perfect for picky eaters. You can leave out the vegetables if needed or finely chop them to make them less noticeable.
Conclusion
Dolly’s Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole is the definition of comfort food done right. From its rich, creamy base and tender chicken to the gooey cheese and crunchy topping, every bite feels like a warm hug. It’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and crowd-pleasing at any occasion—from busy weeknights to holiday potlucks.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner looking for a reliable, hearty meal, this casserole delivers every time. It’s one of those recipes that will quickly become a staple in your kitchen rotation.
Ready to impress your family with a dish that’s both nostalgic and crave-worthy? Gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and make Dolly’s Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole tonight—you won’t regret it.
