Chicken Noodle Casserole

This chicken noodle casserole checks all of the three C's for casserole superstardom: classic, creamy, and oh-so-comforting! Grown-ups, prepare to be transported back to childhood when you taste the nostalgic combination of chewy wide egg noodles, cream of chicken soup, and crushed butter crackers. To make things easier, pick up a rotisserie chicken and save yourself a cooking step. Or make this casserole a day ahead and add the topping just before you pop it in the oven. Even on busy weeknights, this recipe is a winner, winner, chicken dinner!

What kind of chicken do you use for chicken noodle casserole?

Using a rotisserie chicken is one of Ree Drummond's favorite time-saving kitchen hacks, but you can also roast boneless, skinless chicken breasts and shred them. Or, if you happen to have leftover chicken or turkey in the fridge, put it to good use!

What kind of noodles are best for chicken noodle casserole?

You can use any pasta shape you love for this casserole. Long noodles like spaghetti, fettuccine, and pappardelle, work well. Or opt for a shorter pasta like farfalle (bow ties) or a spiral-shaped pasta like rotini or fusilli. Whichever shape you choose, cook it to al dente before stirring it into the casserole so it doesn't overcook when baking.

What is cream of chicken soup?

Cream of chicken soup was invented by the Campbell's Soup Company in the 1940s. Milk, cream, and flour are added to traditional chicken soup for a thick, creamy texture. It's an instant base for chicken casseroles and chicken pot pie.

What is the easiest way to shred chicken?

Start by breaking down the bird into pieces—legs, thighs, breasts, and wings—and removing the skin. You can use two forks to shred the meat, but it's even easier to get in there with your hands and pull it into shreds (once it's cool enough to handle, of course). Remove the bones as you go (freeze these for chicken stock).

Should chicken noodle casserole be covered when baking?

No need to cover the baking dish. By the time the dish goes in the oven, all of the ingredients are fully cooked, so you're essentially just heating everything through. Leaving it uncovered also helps the cracker topping become golden-brown and crisp.

Can chicken noodle casserole be made ahead of time?

Chicken noodle casserole can be assembled and stored, unbaked, in the refrigerator for up to one day, but wait to add the cracker topping until just before baking so it stays crunchy.

Can you freeze chicken noodle casserole?

This casserole can be frozen without the cracker topping. Let the casserole thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Just before baking, sprinkle with the cracker topping, pop it in the oven, adding a few minutes to the cook time, until the casserole is heated through.

What side dishes go well with chicken casserole?

This is a hearty and comforting entree that benefits from a fresh, crisp salad on the side. Try spinach salad, tomato, cucumber, feta salad, or the ultimate winter salad.