Creamy Chicken Noodle Bake: Comfort Food Bliss

Is there anything more comforting than a warm, creamy chicken noodle bake? It’s the kind of dish that brings back childhood memories and soothes the soul. But let’s be honest, sometimes these bakes can end up dry or with a sauce that separates. That’s why I’m so excited to share this recipe with you – a foolproof method for achieving guaranteed creaminess every single time! This Creamy Chicken Noodle Bake is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a cozy night in.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Noodle Bake

This isn’t your average chicken noodle casserole. Here’s why this recipe is a keeper:

• Unbelievably Creamy: The secret is in the roux and the slightly undercooked noodles, which absorb the sauce perfectly.
• Easy to Make: Despite its gourmet taste, this bake is surprisingly simple to put together.
• Perfect for Weeknights: It’s a great way to use leftover cooked chicken.
• Kid-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters will love the cheesy, comforting flavors.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make ahead and freeze for a quick and easy meal later.

Gathering Your Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Noodle Bake

Before we dive into the baking process, let’s talk about the ingredients that make this chicken noodle bake so incredibly delicious. We’re aiming for a rich, comforting flavor profile with a perfect balance of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and cheesy goodness. I will describe how each ingredient is important to give you the best results!

• Egg Noodles: 8 ounces of egg noodles form the base of our casserole. Egg noodles are essential for their delicate flavor and satisfying texture. They soak up the creamy sauce beautifully, creating a symphony of flavors in every bite. Be sure to cook them al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
• Unsalted Butter and All-Purpose Flour: 2 tablespoons each of unsalted butter and all-purpose flour. These two ingredients are the foundation of our roux, which will thicken the sauce and give it that luxurious creaminess. Using unsalted butter allows us to control the saltiness of the final dish.
• Milk or Chicken Broth: 2 cups of milk or chicken broth will form the liquid base of our creamy sauce. Chicken broth adds a deeper, more savory flavor, while milk creates a richer, creamier texture. Feel free to use either one, or even a combination of both, to achieve your desired flavor profile. I recommend using chicken broth for more flavorful taste!
• Onion Powder and Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon of onion powder and ½ teaspoon of garlic powder. These two seasonings are the unsung heroes of this recipe, adding depth and complexity to the sauce without overpowering the other flavors.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Salt to taste and black pepper to taste. Seasoning is key to any great dish, and this chicken noodle bake is no exception. Be sure to season the sauce generously with salt and black pepper to enhance the flavors of all the other ingredients.
• Cooked Shredded Chicken: 2 cups of cooked shredded chicken will add protein and heartiness to our casserole. You can use leftover rotisserie chicken, poached chicken, or even canned chicken, depending on your preference. Just make sure it’s cooked and shredded into bite-sized pieces. Check out our recipe for Tuscan Chicken with Hidden Spinach, it would be a great recipe to get your shredded chicken!.
• Shredded Cheddar and Mozzarella Cheese: 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese and ½ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese will create a cheesy, gooey topping that’s impossible to resist. Cheddar cheese adds a sharp, tangy flavor, while mozzarella cheese provides a melty, stretchy texture. Feel free to experiment with other types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or Gruyere, to create your own unique flavor combination.
• Fresh Parsley (Optional): Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional). A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the finished dish. It’s not essential, but it definitely elevates the presentation and adds a subtle herbal note.

Crafting Your Creamy Chicken Noodle Bake: Step-by-Step

Now for the fun part! Don’t be intimidated by the number of steps – each one is simple and contributes to the overall creamy, delicious result. Follow along, and you’ll have a comforting chicken noodle bake in no time!

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1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. This ensures the bake doesn’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze.
2. Cook the Noodles (Slightly Undercooked!): Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the egg noodles according to package directions, but slightly undercook them by about 1-2 minutes from the recommended time. Drain well and set aside. This is a crucial step! Undercooking the noodles prevents them from becoming mushy during baking.
3. Make the Roux: While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until lightly golden. This is your roux base – the foundation of your creamy sauce. Cooking the flour for a minute removes the raw flour taste.
4. Create the Creamy Sauce: Gradually whisk in the milk or broth, a little at a time, making sure it’s smooth before adding more. Continue to whisk until the sauce thickens and is smooth and creamy. This gradual addition is crucial for a lump-free, stable sauce. Patience is key here!
5. Season the Sauce: Stir in the onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat. Now we’re building the flavor profile.
6. Combine Everything: Add the cooked chicken, cooked and slightly undercooked noodles, and half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses to the sauce. Stir gently to combine everything, ensuring the noodles and chicken are well coated in the creamy sauce. The generous amount of sauce and undercooked noodles help maintain moisture and creaminess during baking. This is where the magic happens!
7. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread evenly.
8. Add Cheese Topping: Top with the remaining shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. This cheesy blanket will become bubbly and golden brown in the oven.
9. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese topping is melted and golden brown. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
10. Rest and Garnish: Let stand for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Allowing it to rest helps the bake set slightly, making it easier to serve.

Tips for Perfect Creamy Chicken Noodle Bake Every Time

Want to ensure your chicken noodle bake is a guaranteed success? Here are a few extra tips and tricks:

• Don’t Overcook the Noodles: This is the most important tip! Undercooking them ensures they don’t become mushy.
• Grate Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting as smoothly.
• Use a Good Quality Chicken Broth: This will significantly impact the flavor of the sauce.
• Add Veggies: Feel free to add cooked vegetables like peas, carrots, or broccoli to the mixture for extra nutrients and flavor. You could even add mushrooms like in our Chicken with Umami Mushroom Velvet Sauce.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free egg noodles and a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
• Freezing Instructions: To freeze, let the baked casserole cool completely. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What to Serve With Creamy Chicken Noodle Bake

This chicken noodle bake is a complete meal on its own, but it’s also delicious served with a simple side salad or some steamed vegetables. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole. Some other great options include roasted asparagus, green beans, or a simple fruit salad. You could also try serving it with some delicious Golden Garlic Parsley Fries.

Your Creamy Chicken Noodle Bake Questions Answered (FAQ)

Can I use a different type of noodle?

While egg noodles are traditional, you can experiment with other types of pasta. Penne, rotini, or even macaroni would work well. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

My sauce is too thick/thin. What do I do?

If the sauce is too thick, whisk in a little more milk or broth until it reaches the desired consistency. If it’s too thin, simmer it over low heat for a few minutes to allow it to thicken.

Can I use canned chicken?

Yes, canned chicken can be used in a pinch. Just be sure to drain it well and remove any bones or cartilage. You may want to add a little extra seasoning to compensate for the less intense flavor.

How do I reheat leftovers?

Leftovers can be reheated in the microwave or oven. To reheat in the oven, cover the dish with foil and bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) until heated through. Microwave on high for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Enjoy Your Homemade Creamy Chicken Noodle Bake!

There you have it – a guaranteed creamy and delicious chicken noodle bake that’s sure to become a family favorite. This recipe is a testament to the fact that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to enjoy a warm, satisfying meal that will bring a smile to everyone’s face. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how it turns out! Share your creations on social media, and happy baking!