If you’re looking for a hearty, satisfying, and easy-to-make dish, this Ultimate Chicken Casserole is the perfect choice. Packed with tender shredded chicken, creamy sauce, savory cheese, and a delightful crunch from french-fried onions, this casserole is a go-to for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
This recipe is also highly customizable—whether you want to add more veggies, swap out ingredients, or make it extra cheesy, it’s easy to tailor to your taste. Plus, with simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a warm and delicious meal on the table in no time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Minimal prep and one pan make this a stress-free dinner option.
- Comforting & Filling: Creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor, this dish is the ultimate comfort food.
- Great for Leftovers: Perfect for meal prep and tastes even better the next day.
- Family-Friendly: A hit with both kids and adults, making it a great dinner option for the whole family.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked egg noodles
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 2 cups corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 cup milk
- 2 (10 oz) cans cream of chicken soup
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar is recommended, but any cheese will work)
- ¾ cup french-fried onions
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Additions & Substitutions:
- Extra Veggies: Add peas, carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms for more nutrients.
- Bacon Lovers: Add crispy, crumbled bacon for a smoky flavor boost.
- Spice It Up: A dash of paprika, cayenne, or chili flakes can add a little heat.
- Cheese Lovers: Increase the cheese to 1 cup for a richer, cheesier casserole.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Casserole Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked egg noodles, shredded chicken, corn, milk, cream of chicken soup, diced onion, and minced garlic.
- Add shredded cheese, salt, and pepper to taste. If you’re using additional ingredients like bacon or extra veggies, mix them in at this step.
- Stir everything together until well combined, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the french-fried onions over the top. These will add a delicious crunch and extra flavor.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
- Place the dish into the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and heated through.
- If you prefer a crispier topping, broil for the last 2-3 minutes to lightly brown the fried onions and cheese.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
- Remove from the oven and allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley or extra shredded cheese if desired.
Serving Suggestions
This Ultimate Chicken Casserole pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few ideas to complete your meal:
- Garlic Bread: A warm, crispy slice of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- Side Salad: A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette balances out the richness of the dish.
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted broccoli, asparagus, or green beans for added color and nutrients.
Tips for the Best Chicken Casserole
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quick and easy shortcut, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of cooking and shredding chicken yourself.
- Make it Ahead: Assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover, and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Freezing Instructions: This casserole freezes well! Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, bake from frozen at 350°F for 45-50 minutes until hot and bubbly.
- Leftovers: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave for a quick meal.
Final Thoughts
This Ultimate Chicken Casserole is the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and crispy, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re feeding a family, meal prepping for the week, or bringing a dish to a potluck, this casserole is a fantastic option that delivers comfort and flavor in every bite.
Try it today and enjoy a simple, homemade meal that’s both delicious and satisfying!