If you’re craving a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that brings together creamy textures, tender chicken, and hearty noodles, then the Pioneer Woman Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe is about to become your new favorite go-to dinner. This dish delivers that nostalgic, homemade warmth with easy-to-find ingredients and a buttery, crunchy topping that perfectly contrasts the rich filling. Whether it’s for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this casserole is everything you want in a comfort food classic, packed with flavors that feel like a big, comforting hug.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind the Pioneer Woman Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe starts with simple ingredients that each play an essential role, from the creamy soup base to the perfectly seasoned chicken and the crunchy cracker topping. These items come together to create a balance of flavors and textures that elevate this casserole from everyday to unforgettable.
- Wide egg noodles (12 oz): They provide the perfect starchy base, tender yet sturdy enough to hold all the creamy goodness.
- Cream of chicken soup (2 cans, 10.5 oz each): This adds creaminess and a subtle savory depth that brings everything together.
- Whole milk (1 cup): Lightens the soup, making the casserole smooth without overpowering the other flavors.
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese (1 cup): Adds a tangy and rich flavor that melts beautifully into the sauce.
- Ground black pepper (1 tsp): Enhances the overall seasoning with a gentle kick.
- Kosher salt (½ tsp): Balances the flavors and brings out the natural taste of each ingredient.
- Cooked, shredded chicken (3 cups): Rotisserie chicken is perfect here, making prep easy and full of tender, savory meat.
- Finely chopped yellow onion (½ small): Provides a subtle sweetness and texture contrast.
- Finely chopped celery stalks (2): Adds a slight crunch and a fresh note that complements the creaminess.
- Frozen peas and carrots (1 bag, 12 oz, thawed): Brings color and a touch of natural sweetness to brighten the dish.
- Crushed butter crackers (1½ cups): The golden crunchy topping element that makes every bite irresistible.
- Unsalted butter (2 tbsp, melted): Binds the cracker topping and adds richness and toasty flavor.
- Chopped parsley (for garnish): A fresh burst of color and herbaceous aroma at the end.
How to Make Pioneer Woman Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Noodles
Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. While the oven gets warm, cook the wide egg noodles in salted boiling water for about 7 minutes, or until they’re just al dente—this texture ensures they don’t become mushy in the casserole. Drain and set aside. This step lays down a firm but tender base for your casserole filling.
Step 2: Whip Up the Creamy Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, whole milk, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, ground black pepper, and kosher salt. This mixture is your rich, comforting sauce that melds all the flavors together and keeps that dreamy creamy consistency we adore.
Step 3: Combine the Chicken and Veggies
Stir in the shredded chicken, finely chopped onion, celery, and the thawed peas and carrots into the sauce bowl. Each ingredient brings a textural surprise and flavor layer to the casserole—juicy chicken pieces, crunchy celery, the subtle sweetness of veggies—all working in perfect harmony.
Step 4: Fold in the Cooked Noodles
Gently fold your cooked egg noodles into the combined mixture, ensuring every noodle is coated in that creamy, cheesy sauce. This step makes sure you get a bite of deliciousness every time without the filling being too heavy in any one area. Transfer the entire mix into your prepared baking dish.
Step 5: Prepare and Add the Topping
In a small bowl, mix the crushed butter crackers with the melted butter until well combined. This topping is what sets the Pioneer Woman Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe apart with its golden, crunchy texture and rich buttery flavor. Sprinkle it generously and evenly over the casserole.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Bubbling
Bake your casserole for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are bubbly and the cracker topping turns that perfect golden brown. This final bake step melds the flavors beautifully and gives you that irresistible crunch on top that contrasts perfectly with the soft filling underneath.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once baked, remove the casserole and let it rest for a few minutes. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness that brightens each bite. Then, serve it warm and watch it disappear fast—this dish is pure comfort on a plate.
How to Serve Pioneer Woman Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Adding chopped parsley is a simple way to give the casserole a fresh finish, but you can also try a light sprinkle of paprika for color or even a handful of crispy fried onions on top for extra crunch. These small touches make the dish feel extra special and appealing at the table.
Side Dishes
This casserole shines wonderfully on its own, but pairing it with a bright, crisp green salad or some roasted vegetables adds balance and freshness. Garlic bread or a warm dinner roll can also be a delightful companion to soak up every bit of the creamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this casserole family-style straight from the baking dish to encourage sharing and warmth. For a twist, portion the casserole into individual ramekins for a charming personal touch, perfect for entertaining guests or a cozy dinner for two.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Pioneer Woman Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe is best stored covered in the refrigerator and will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Be sure to cool it completely before covering to keep that creamy texture intact.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully! Prepare the dish through step 5, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, bake directly from frozen, adding extra baking time as needed until bubbly and golden.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the casserole or individual portions with foil and warm in a 350-degree oven until heated through (around 20 minutes). Avoid the microwave if possible to preserve the topping crispiness, but if you must, crisp it up afterward under the broiler for a minute or two.
FAQs
Can I use other types of noodles?
Absolutely! While wide egg noodles are classic for this recipe, you can substitute with penne, rotini, or even bowties. Just be sure to cook them al dente so they hold up well during baking.
Is rotisserie chicken necessary?
Rotisserie chicken is a convenient shortcut that adds great flavor, but you can also use cooked chicken breasts or thighs shredded at home. Season lightly if needed to keep the flavors balanced.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
With a few swaps, yes! Use a dairy-free creamy soup alternative, plant-based milk, and a dairy-free cheese substitute. The casserole will still be creamy but in a lighter, dairy-free version.
What can I substitute for the cracker topping?
If you want to try different toppings, panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter or even crushed cornflakes work well to create that golden crunchy finish.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! This casserole holds up well in the fridge and can be portioned out for lunches or dinners throughout the week. Just reheat gently to enjoy it like fresh.
Final Thoughts
If comfort food had a signature, the Pioneer Woman Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe would be it. It’s cozy, indulgent, and surprisingly simple to throw together, making it a perfect weeknight winner or a cherished dish for special gatherings. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience how this casserole warms both your kitchen and your heart.
Print
Pioneer Woman Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Pioneer Woman Chicken Noodle Casserole is a comforting, hearty baked dish featuring tender egg noodles, shredded chicken, creamy cheddar sauce, and a crunchy buttery cracker topping. Perfect for family dinners, this casserole combines simple ingredients like rotisserie chicken, vegetables, and cheese into a delicious one-dish meal that’s baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 12 oz wide egg noodles
- 1½ cups crushed butter crackers (such as Ritz)
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- ½ tsp kosher salt
Wet Ingredients
- 2 cans (10.5 oz each) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Produce
- ½ small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 1 bag (12 oz) frozen peas and carrots, thawed
- Chopped parsley, for garnish
Protein
- 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie works great)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Cook the noodles: Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the wide egg noodles and cook until al dente, about 7 minutes. Drain the noodles thoroughly and set them aside.
- Make the sauce: In a large bowl, combine the two cans of cream of chicken soup, whole milk, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, ground black pepper, and kosher salt. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Combine the ingredients: Add the shredded cooked chicken, finely chopped yellow onion, celery, and thawed peas and carrots to the sauce mixture. Stir gently to incorporate all ingredients evenly.
- Add the noodles: Fold the cooked egg noodles into the mixture until everything is well combined. Transfer this mixture into the prepared greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Prepare the topping: Mix the crushed butter crackers with melted unsalted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated. Sprinkle this buttery cracker topping evenly over the casserole.
- Bake the casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Bake until the casserole is heated through and the topping turns a beautiful golden brown color.
- Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness, then serve warm for a comforting meal.
Notes
- You can substitute frozen mixed vegetables if peas and carrots are unavailable.
- Rotisserie chicken saves time but you can also use leftover cooked chicken.
- For a cheesier casserole, add extra shredded cheddar on top before baking.
- Ensure noodles are cooked al dente to avoid them becoming mushy after baking.
- Use kosher salt for better flavor control; adjust seasoning as needed.
- The cracker topping adds essential crunch and buttery flavor.
- Leftovers store well covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
