Dolly’s Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole – Classic Comfort Dish

Introduction

Few things feel as homey and heartwarming as a big, bubbling casserole pulled fresh from the oven. Dolly’s Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole is a Southern favorite that blends tender chicken, comforting noodles, and a luscious cream sauce with savory flavor in every bite. This dish is one of those “just like Mama made it” dinners that never fails to please.

Whether you’re looking to feed a large family, bring comfort to a neighbor, or prep meals for the week, this classic casserole is easy to throw together and loved by all ages. Let’s get into it!

Ingredients:

For the Casserole:

• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)

• 12 oz wide egg noodles

• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup

• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup

• 1 cup sour cream

• 1/2 cup milk

• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Topping:

• 1/2 cup crushed butter crackers (like Ritz) or breadcrumbs

• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Preparation:

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until just al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Mix the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine with Chicken and Noodles

Add the shredded chicken and cooked noodles into the creamy mixture. Gently fold everything together until evenly coated.

Step 5: Transfer and Top

Spoon the mixture into the prepared baking dish. In a small bowl, mix crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle this over the top of the casserole.

Step 6: Bake

Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top. If desired, garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Variation:

• Veggie Boost: Stir in frozen peas, carrots, or broccoli before baking.

• Spicy Kick: Add 1/4 teaspoon cayenne or diced jalapeños for heat.

• Cheesy Twist: Use a blend of mozzarella and sharp cheddar for extra gooeyness.

• Low-Carb Option: Swap egg noodles with cooked spaghetti squash or zucchini noodles.

COOKING Note:

Don’t overcook your noodles before baking — they’ll continue cooking in the oven. Al dente is ideal to avoid a mushy casserole.

Serving Suggestions:

• Pair with green beans, a fresh garden salad, or roasted carrots for a complete meal.

• Add a slice of cornbread or garlic bread on the side.

• Serve it family-style straight from the casserole dish — Southern charm at its best.

Tips:

• This is a great freezer meal! Assemble, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen at 375°F for about 1 hour, covered with foil.

• Leftovers reheat well in the microwave or oven.

• For extra flavor, use a rotisserie chicken or season your own with herbs and spices before cooking.

Prep Time:

20 minutes

Cooking Time:

35 minutes

Total Time:

55 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 8 servings):

• Calories: 460

• Protein: 28g

• Sodium: 850mg

• Carbohydrates: 30g

• Fat: 25g

• Saturated Fat: 11g

• Fiber: 2g

• Sugar: 3g

FAQs

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble it and refrigerate up to 24 hours ahead. Bake when ready to serve.

Q: Can I freeze it?
Absolutely! Wrap tightly and freeze before baking. Bake frozen with extra time or thaw overnight in the fridge.

Q: What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
You can double the cream of chicken soup or use cream of celery as a milder alternative.

Q: Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free noodles and substitute GF soups and crackers.

Q: Is there a dairy-free version?
Use non-dairy cream soups, dairy-free sour cream, and cheese alternatives for a lactose-free version.

Conclusion

Dolly’s Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole is the definition of Southern comfort. It’s warm, cheesy, creamy, and filling — everything you want from a home-cooked meal. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or when you’re just craving something that tastes like a hug in a dish.

It’s easy to make, crowd-pleasing, and freezer-friendly — what more could you ask for in a casserole? 💛

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