If you’re searching for a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that feels like a warm hug from the inside out, look no further than the Pioneer Woman Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe. This dish combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked noodles, and a creamy, cheesy sauce loaded with fresh veggies, all topped with a satisfyingly crispy cracker crust. It’s a wonderful blend of textures and flavors that will quickly become a family favorite, ideal for cozy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe is thoughtfully chosen to highlight familiar, wholesome flavors while creating layers of texture and color. From the sharp cheddar to the crisp celery and the buttery cracker topping, each component plays a special role in making this casserole irresistible.
- 12 oz wide egg noodles: These noodles hold sauce beautifully and provide that classic comfort texture you crave.
- 2 cans (10.5 oz each) cream of chicken soup: The creamy base that brings everything together with ease and rich flavor.
- 1 cup whole milk: Adds creaminess while keeping the sauce silky smooth.
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar offers a punch of flavor and delightful melted goodness.
- 1 tsp ground black pepper: Adds subtle warmth without overpowering the dish.
- ½ tsp kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors in just the right measure.
- 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie works great): Tender and flavorful, this is the hearty protein that makes it a meal.
- ½ small yellow onion, finely chopped: Adds a mild sweetness and a bit of crunch in every bite.
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped: Offers fresh, crisp texture and a gentle earthiness.
- 1 bag (12 oz) frozen peas and carrots, thawed: Vibrant color and a subtle sweetness for extra veggie goodness.
- 1½ cups crushed butter crackers (such as Ritz): The secret to an ultra-crispy, buttery topping that seals the deal.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted: Binds the cracker topping for perfect golden browning.
- Chopped parsley, for garnish: A fresh, pretty touch to brighten and finish the dish.
How to Make Pioneer Woman Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish
Kick things off by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish—this keeps your casserole from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Cook the Noodles to Al Dente
Boil the egg noodles in salted water until they’re just tender but still have a little bite, about seven minutes. This is key because they’ll continue cooking in the oven, so you don’t want them mushy. Drain and set them aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Whip Up the Creamy Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, blend the cream of chicken soup with whole milk, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, black pepper, and kosher salt. This mixture forms the luscious sauce that will coat your chicken and noodles with pure comfort.
Step 4: Combine the Chicken and Veggies
Stir in the shredded chicken, finely chopped onion and celery, along with thawed peas and carrots. This combination adds depth of flavor, freshness, and delightful pops of texture, transforming the casserole into more than just creamy noodles.
Step 5: Add the Noodles and Mix
Fold the cooked egg noodles gently into the sauce and chicken mixture until everything is evenly coated. Once well combined, pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Step 6: Prepare the Crunchy Topping
Mix the crushed butter crackers with melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated. Sprinkle this crumbly goodness on top of your casserole. This topping will bake into a golden, crispy layer that perfectly contrasts the creamy filling.
Step 7: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly
Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the casserole is heated through and the cracker topping is a gorgeous golden brown, crisp to the touch.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and finish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley. This final green flourish adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness that rounds out the dish beautifully.
How to Serve Pioneer Woman Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A little freshly chopped parsley on top not only brightens up the casserole’s appearance but adds a lovely herbal note that complements the rich flavors. For extra zest, a light dusting of paprika or freshly cracked black pepper can also be delightful.
Side Dishes
This casserole is wonderfully versatile to pair with simple sides such as a crisp green salad with tangy vinaigrette or roasted seasonal vegetables. Creamy mashed potatoes or crusty bread work beautifully if you’re looking for an even heartier meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving individual portions in ramekins topped with cracker crumbs right before baking. This makes for a charming presentation at dinner parties or potlucks, allowing everyone to enjoy their own perfectly crispy top.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After your family has enjoyed the first helping, store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. This casserole holds its flavors and moisture well, so reheating is quick and satisfying without drying it out.
Freezing
If you want to save it for later, the Pioneer Woman Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe freezes wonderfully. Assemble the casserole but don’t bake. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to two months. When ready, bake from frozen—just add 10 to 15 minutes to the baking time and watch your freezer meal transform into a comforting feast.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and the topping regains its crispness, about 20 minutes. You can also use a microwave for convenience, but the oven will give you back that delightful crunch on top.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of soup instead of cream of chicken?
Absolutely! While cream of chicken lends that classic savory depth, cream of mushroom or cream of celery can be delicious alternatives, giving the casserole a slightly different but still comforting flavor profile.
Is rotisserie chicken the best choice for this recipe?
Rotisserie chicken is perfect because it’s already cooked and seasoned, saving you time and adding lots of flavor. However, leftover roasted or poached chicken works beautifully as well.
Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap the wide egg noodles for a gluten-free pasta and use gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs for the topping. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it easy to accommodate different diets.
What if I want it spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture for a subtle kick that enlivens the creamy flavors without overpowering the dish.
How can I make the cracker topping extra crispy?
Make sure to toss the cracker crumbs thoroughly with melted butter, then spread them evenly over the casserole before baking. Avoid overcrowding the topping for better crispness and golden browning.
Final Thoughts
There’s something utterly satisfying about gathering around a warm dish that’s packed with flavor, texture, and a whole lot of love. The Pioneer Woman Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe is exactly that kind of meal—simple to make yet unbelievably comforting. Whether you’re feeding family, friends, or treating yourself, this dish invites you to slow down and enjoy every cozy bite. Don’t hesitate to give it a try and watch it quickly become one of your best-loved recipes.
Print
Pioneer Woman Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Pioneer Woman Chicken Noodle Casserole is a comforting, classic baked dish featuring tender egg noodles, creamy chicken sauce, sharp cheddar cheese, and a crunchy butter cracker topping. Perfect for family dinners, this casserole combines shredded chicken, fresh veggies, and savory flavors into one hearty, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz wide egg noodles
- 2 cans (10.5 oz each) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie works great)
- ½ small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 1 bag (12 oz) frozen peas and carrots, thawed
Topping
- 1½ cups crushed butter crackers (such as Ritz)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Garnish
- Chopped parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cook Noodles: Boil salted water and cook the wide egg noodles until al dente, approximately 7 minutes. Drain the noodles thoroughly and set aside to cool slightly.
- Make Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, whole milk, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, ground black pepper, and kosher salt. Stir until well blended to form a creamy sauce base.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the shredded cooked chicken, finely chopped yellow onion, chopped celery, and thawed peas and carrots to the sauce. Mix thoroughly to evenly distribute all ingredients.
- Add Noodles: Fold the cooked egg noodles into the sauce and chicken mixture gently to avoid breaking the noodles. Ensure all noodles are coated and the mixture is well combined. Transfer this mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, mix the crushed butter crackers with melted unsalted butter until the crumbs are fully coated. Sprinkle this evenly over the top of the casserole to create a crispy, golden topping.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cracker topping turns a delicious golden brown.
- Serve: Remove from oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for color and added flavor. Serve the casserole warm for the best taste experience.
Notes
- Rotisserie chicken is recommended for convenience and flavor, but any cooked, shredded chicken will work.
- Be sure not to overcook the noodles during boiling; they will continue to soften during baking.
- You can substitute frozen mixed vegetables if peas and carrots are unavailable.
- For a lighter version, reduce the cheese or use low-fat milk, but it may alter the creaminess.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow it to set for easier serving.
