Chicken and Noodles with Cream of Chicken Soup Recipe

Chicken and noodles with cream of chicken soup is a classic comfort food recipe that combines tender egg noodles, shredded chicken, and creamy condensed soup for a quick, satisfying meal. The basic preparation involves cooking egg noodles, mixing them with cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, milk or broth, and seasonings, then baking until golden. This 30-minute recipe serves 4-6 people and can be customized with vegetables, herbs, or additional seasonings to enhance flavor while maintaining its signature creamy texture.

Nothing says comfort like a warm bowl of chicken and noodles made with cream of chicken soup. This timeless recipe has been a staple in American households for generations, offering a perfect balance of simplicity and satisfying flavor. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to bring to a potluck, this versatile recipe delivers consistent results with minimal effort.

Why Cream of Chicken Soup Works Perfectly in This Dish

Cream of chicken soup serves as the ideal base for chicken and noodles recipes because it provides consistent flavor and texture without requiring advanced cooking skills. The condensed soup already contains the right balance of seasonings, thickeners, and chicken flavor, eliminating guesswork in creating a creamy sauce from scratch. When combined with milk or broth, it creates a rich, velvety coating for the noodles and chicken that holds together beautifully during baking.

Essential Ingredients for the Best Chicken Noodles

The magic of this simple recipe lies in using quality ingredients while maintaining its accessible nature. Here's what you'll need for the classic version:

• 8 ounces egg noodles (wide or extra wide work best)
• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken saves time)
• 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
• ½ cup milk or chicken broth
• ¼ cup finely chopped onion or 1 tablespoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional: ½ cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables

For those seeking a homemade chicken noodle casserole using canned soup, consider adding ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness or a dash of paprika for color. If you're looking for easy chicken and noodles recipe with cream of chicken soup variations, try substituting cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor profile.

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

Follow these simple steps for perfect chicken and noodles every time:

1. Cook egg noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cool water.
2. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 2-quart baking dish.
3. In a large bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, milk, onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Gently fold in cooked noodles, shredded chicken, and any additional ingredients like peas.
5. Transfer mixture to prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
6. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until bubbly around the edges and heated through.
7. For a golden top, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end (watch carefully to prevent burning).

Cooking Stage	Time	Temperature	Visual Cues
Noodle Cooking	6-8 minutes	Boiling water	Slightly firm to bite
Baking	20-25 minutes	350°F (175°C)	Bubbly edges, heated through
Broiling (optional)	1-2 minutes	High broil	Golden brown top

Avoiding Common Mistakes in Creamy Chicken Noodle Dishes

Even with a simple chicken and noodles recipe with condensed soup, certain pitfalls can affect your results. Here's how to avoid them:

• Overcooked noodles: Cook noodles just until al dente before mixing, as they'll continue cooking in the oven
• Watery texture: Drain noodles thoroughly and avoid adding extra liquid beyond what the recipe specifies
• Bland flavor: Enhance the basic recipe with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley added after baking
• Dry casserole: Don't skip the milk or broth that helps create the proper creamy consistency

Delicious Variations for Different Preferences

This classic chicken and noodles comfort food recipe adapts beautifully to various tastes and dietary needs:

• Creamier version: Add 2 tablespoons of sour cream or cream cheese to the soup mixture
• Vegetable-packed: Stir in ½ cup each of diced carrots, celery, and peas before baking
• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free egg noodles and homemade cream of chicken soup substitute
• Extra crispy topping: Mix ¼ cup breadcrumbs with 1 tablespoon melted butter and sprinkle on top before baking

Serving Suggestions and Leftover Tips

This versatile dish pairs perfectly with a simple green salad and crusty bread. For meal prep enthusiasts looking for quick chicken casserole recipes using canned soup, this recipe reheats beautifully. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to restore moisture, then microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make chicken and noodles with cream of chicken soup without baking?

Yes, you can prepare this as a stovetop dish instead of baking. Simply combine all ingredients in a large saucepan, heat over medium until bubbly (about 10 minutes), then simmer for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld. This stovetop chicken and noodles quick version works well when you need dinner even faster.

What's the best type of chicken to use in this recipe?

Shredded rotisserie chicken provides the most convenient option with excellent flavor. For homemade chicken noodle casserole using canned soup, you can also use poached chicken breast or thigh meat cooked specifically for this recipe. Avoid canned chicken as it often has a different texture that doesn't blend well with the creamy sauce.

How can I make this recipe healthier?

For a lighter chicken and noodles comfort food recipe, use low-sodium cream of chicken soup, substitute skim milk for regular milk, and increase the vegetable content with additional peas, carrots, or broccoli. You can also use whole wheat egg noodles for added fiber while maintaining the dish's comforting qualities.

Can I freeze chicken and noodles with cream of chicken soup?

Yes, this dish freezes well for up to 3 months. Cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. For best results with this easy chicken and noodles recipe with cream of chicken soup, leave out the final baking step before freezing. When ready to serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes until heated through.

What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?

If you don't have cream of chicken soup, make a quick substitute by combining 1 cup chicken broth, 2 tablespoons butter, 2 tablespoons flour, and ½ cup milk. Cook until thickened, then season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of poultry seasoning. This homemade version for chicken noodle casserole works well when you need to customize ingredients.