Chicken Noodle Bake

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Start by cooking the egg noodles according to the package directions. Once the noodles are cooked al dente, drain them and set them aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant. This will add a rich depth of flavor to the dish.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk (or chicken broth), dried thyme, dried parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth. Add the sautéed onions and garlic to the sauce mixture and stir to combine.

Step 4: Combine the Chicken and Noodles

Next, fold the shredded chicken into the sauce mixture. Once combined, add the cooked noodles and stir until everything is well coated.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the noodle and chicken mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it evenly and top with the shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese. For a crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the cheese layer.

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once the casserole is done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Dish out generous portions and enjoy the creamy, comforting flavors of this Chicken Noodle Bake!

Tips for the Best Chicken Noodle Bake

• Use Rotisserie Chicken: To save time, use store-bought rotisserie chicken. It’s flavorful and already cooked, making the recipe even easier.
• Make it Creamier: If you love a super creamy texture, you can add a little extra sour cream or cream cheese to the sauce mixture.
• Add Veggies: For extra nutrition, feel free to add in some vegetables. Frozen peas, carrots, or spinach would work wonderfully in this dish.
• Cheese Variations: While cheddar cheese is the classic choice, you can switch it up with other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Gruyère for a different flavor profile.
• Make Ahead: This dish is perfect for prepping ahead of time. You can assemble it the day before and store it in the fridge, then just bake it when you’re ready to eat. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months—just thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

Storing Leftovers

Chicken Noodle Bake keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days. To store leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or heat the whole dish in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

For long-term storage, you can freeze the Chicken Noodle Bake for up to 3 months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil before freezing. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as usual.