If you are craving a comforting, satisfying meal that feels like a warm embrace on a chilly evening, this Creamy Chicken and Noodles Bake Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender egg noodles wrapped in a luscious, velvety sauce loaded with tender chicken, flavorful herbs, and a hint of Parmesan cheese—this dish brings together simple ingredients to create a harmonious blend of creamy goodness and hearty satisfaction. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe promises to become a go-to favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Creamy Chicken and Noodles Bake Recipe shines because of its straightforward yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in layering flavors and textures, from the silky cream of chicken soup to the tender, savory chicken and the vibrant pop of green peas.
- 8 ounces wide egg noodles: These noodles hold up well to creamy sauces and provide the perfect base texture for the dish.
- 2 cups cooked and cubed chicken: A hearty protein that makes the bake filling and delicious.
- 2 10.5 oz cans cream of chicken soup: The foundation of the creamy sauce with a rich, savory flavor.
- 1 cup milk: Adds smoothness and helps thin the sauce to the perfect consistency.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Brings a tangy creaminess that brightens the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Provides an earthy, fragrant herbal note.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt: Adds savory depth and a gentle garlic kick.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Gives subtle sweetness and warmth.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Just enough to balance and enhance all the flavors.
- 1 cup frozen peas: Adds a sweet pop of color and freshness.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Finishes the dish with a nutty, salty richness.
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional): For a fresh, bright garnish that makes the dish pop visually and flavor-wise.
How to Make Creamy Chicken and Noodles Bake Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Egg Noodles
Start by cooking your wide egg noodles in plenty of salted boiling water until they reach al dente—tender but still with a slight bite. This step ensures your noodles won’t get mushy later when they soak in the sauce. Once done, drain and set the noodles aside, keeping them ready to mingle with the creamy goodness.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
In a large skillet or saucepan, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, milk, sour cream, dried thyme, garlic salt, onion powder, and black pepper until you have a smooth, velvety sauce. This combination is the secret to that signature creamy texture. Gently heat it over medium, stirring frequently to avoid sticking, until the mixture just starts to simmer and thicken slightly.
Step 3: Add Chicken and Peas
Next, introduce the cooked, cubed chicken along with the frozen peas into the simmering sauce. These ingredients infuse the sauce with heartiness and a touch of sweetness while the peas bring a delightful color contrast. Let everything heat through for about 2 to 3 minutes, stirring steadily so the peas warm evenly without losing their pop.
Step 4: Combine Noodles and Sauce
Take the cooked noodles and toss them directly into the skillet with the creamy chicken mixture. Using a gentle hand, coat every strand of noodle with the sauce so all bites are consistently flavorful. This step turns all those simple ingredients into a unified dish that’s nothing short of comforting magic.
Step 5: Finish with Parmesan Cheese
Turn off the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. This final touch adds a nutty saltiness that elevates the creamy sauce into something irresistible. Don’t rush this part since the residual warmth will gently melt the cheese into the sauce, creating an even richer flavor.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Noodles Bake Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling freshly chopped parsley over the top is a wonderful way to bring a fresh, herbaceous lift to your creamy bake. It adds a lovely visual contrast and a subtle brightness that cuts through the richness of the dish, making every bite feel balanced and perfectly seasoned.
Side Dishes
Pair this bake with crisp green salads, roasted vegetables, or steamed broccoli for some vibrant crunch and nutrition. Even a batch of crusty bread works beautifully here, ready for sopping up every last bit of the luscious sauce. These sides round out the meal without stealing the spotlight from this wonderful creamy chicken and noodles creation.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Creamy Chicken and Noodles Bake Recipe family-style straight from a rustic casserole dish for a warm, inviting vibe. If you want to get fancy, portion it into individual ramekins or mini casseroles for charming single servings. You can also experiment with topping the dish with breadcrumbs and broiling briefly for a golden, crispy finish that adds a delightful textural contrast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This dish keeps incredibly well in the fridge, making it a perfect candidate for next-day lunches or a quick reheated dinner. Transfer leftovers to airtight containers and keep refrigerated for up to 3 days, ensuring the flavor stays fresh and the texture remains creamy.
Freezing
If you want to stash some away for later, this creamy chicken and noodles bake freezes nicely. Place it in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results, as this helps the sauce keep its smooth consistency.
Reheating
When reheating your leftovers, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave at medium power to avoid drying out. Adding a splash of milk while reheating can help revive the creamy texture, making it taste just as delicious as the first time you made it.
FAQs
Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked chicken in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can cook fresh chicken breasts or thighs by poaching or roasting, then cube them before adding to the bake. Just be sure the chicken is fully cooked before combining with the sauce to avoid any undercooked bits.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the wide egg noodles for gluten-free noodles available at most grocery stores. Just check the cooking time on the package to ensure you achieve the right texture, and use gluten-free soups if required.
Can I add other vegetables besides peas?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in vegetables like carrots, mushrooms, or spinach to boost nutrition and flavor. Just be mindful of cooking times; firmer veggies should be pre-cooked or softened before mixing in.
What if I don’t have sour cream—can I use something else?
If you don’t have sour cream, plain Greek yogurt or cream cheese can work as substitutes. Both add creaminess with a slight tang, though yogurt will be a bit less rich, so adjust amounts to taste.
Can this recipe be made in advance and baked later?
You sure can! Prepare everything up to mixing the sauce with noodles, then refrigerate. When ready, bake in a preheated oven until bubbly and hot throughout. This makes it a great option for busy days or entertaining.
Final Thoughts
There is something so wonderfully soothing about a Creamy Chicken and Noodles Bake Recipe that brings comfort food to a whole new level. With its simple ingredients and easy steps, this dish is perfect for anyone wanting a hearty, creamy meal that feels like a warm hug. So, grab your skillet and noodles, and get ready to make this beloved recipe your new dinner staple—you won’t regret it!
Print
Creamy Chicken and Noodles Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This comforting Chicken and Noodles recipe combines tender egg noodles with a creamy sauce made from cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and Parmesan cheese. Enhanced with cooked chicken, peas, and herbs like thyme, garlic, and onion powders, this dish is quick to prepare and perfect for a hearty family meal.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 8 ounces wide egg noodles
- 2 cups cooked and cubed chicken
- 2 (10.5 oz) cans cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Noodles: Cook the egg noodles in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the noodles and set aside.
- Prepare Sauce: In a large skillet or saucepan, combine the cream of chicken soup, milk, sour cream, dried thyme, garlic salt, onion powder, and black pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth.
- Simmer Sauce: Heat the sauce mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches a gentle simmer, allowing all flavors to meld and the sauce to warm thoroughly.
- Add Chicken and Peas: Stir in the cooked cubed chicken and frozen peas into the skillet. Continue cooking and stirring occasionally for about 2 to 3 minutes, or until the peas are heated through.
- Combine Noodles and Sauce: Add the cooked egg noodles into the skillet with the sauce and chicken mixture. Toss gently to coat the noodles evenly in the creamy sauce.
- Finish with Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce for added richness and flavor.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness before serving.
Notes
- Use wide egg noodles for optimal texture and sauce absorption.
- Substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- For extra flavor, add sautéed mushrooms or onions along with the chicken.
- This dish can be prepared ahead and reheated gently on the stovetop for convenience.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially if using low-sodium soups.
