If you’ve been craving a dish that combines the comforting richness of French onion flavors with the hearty satisfaction of chicken and noodles, then you are in for a treat. This French Onion Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe brings together tender chicken, creamy soup, and crispy fried onions in a perfect harmony that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s easy to prepare, incredibly flavorful, and perfect for weeknight dinners or casual family gatherings where everyone asks for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes this French Onion Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe so special is how simple yet essential each ingredient is. Every component adds texture, flavor, or a touch of color, creating a dish that’s both comforting and crave-worthy.
- 4 cups cooked chopped chicken: Provides protein and a mild flavor that soaks up all the delicious sauce.
- 2 (10.5-oz) cans Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup: Creates a creamy base that keeps the casserole moist and tender.
- 1 (16-oz) container refrigerated French Onion Dip (sour cream based): Delivers the iconic French onion flavor with a tangy, creamy twist.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds richness and a melty, cheesy texture everyone loves.
- 12-oz egg noodles: The perfect pasta shape to to catch all that luscious sauce and chicken bits.
- 1 cup crushed French fried onions: Brings a delightfully crispy topping that adds crunch and an extra punch of onion flavor.
How to Make French Onion Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Noodles
Begin by cooking the egg noodles according to the package directions until they are tender but still firm to the bite. Drain them well to avoid a watery casserole, then set them aside while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.
Step 2: Get Your Oven Ready
Preheat your oven to 350ºF. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray to ensure the dish doesn’t stick and to help achieve a golden crust on the top.
Step 3: Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, French onion dip, and shredded cheddar cheese. This mixture forms the heart of the casserole. Stir in the cooked egg noodles, gently folding everything together so the noodles are coated evenly with the creamy, flavorful sauce.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the noodle and chicken mixture into your prepared casserole dish, smoothing the top gently with a spatula. Sprinkle the crushed French fried onions evenly over the surface to create that irresistible crunchy topping.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the casserole in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’re looking for a bubbly, golden-hot casserole with a deliciously crisp topping. When it’s done, the whole kitchen will smell like a cozy French bistro filled with onions and comfort food bliss.
How to Serve French Onion Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your French Onion Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe, a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives adds a vibrant pop of color and a subtle freshness that cuts through the rich flavors beautifully. For an extra touch, a dash of cracked black pepper on top enhances the savory depth.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs exceptionally well with crisp green salads dressed in light vinaigrettes or garlic sautéed green beans. Roasted carrots or a simple steamed broccoli dish also complement the casserole wonderfully, balancing the indulgent richness with fresh, crunchy vegetables.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun family dinner, serve your French Onion Chicken Noodle Casserole in individual ramekins, topped with a few extra fried onions. You can even transform leftovers into a layered pasta bake by reheating with additional cheese and topping it with fresh herbs. These small presentation tweaks make every serving feel special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This casserole keeps well for up to 3-4 days, making it an excellent option for quick lunches or easy dinners later in the week.
Freezing
You can freeze the casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed with a few extra minutes of cooking time.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350ºF until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes, to preserve the crunchy topping. Alternatively, microwave single portions on medium power, covering loosely to keep moisture, though the topping won’t be as crisp this way.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a perfect shortcut to save time without sacrificing flavor. Just chop it up and use it as the cooked chicken in this dish.
Is there a way to make this casserole dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute dairy-free sour cream and cream of chicken soup alternatives made from coconut or almond milk. Use dairy-free cheese and fried onions without added dairy for a fully dairy-free version.
Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely. Chopped mushrooms, spinach, or frozen peas fold in nicely with the chicken and noodles, adding more color and nutrients to the casserole.
What kind of French fried onions should I buy?
Look for classic French fried onions that are crispy and not too oily. These enhance both texture and flavor, so quality matters for the perfect crunchy topping.
Can I prepare this recipe without a casserole dish?
If you don’t have a 9×13-inch pan, a similarly sized oven-safe dish or even individual ovenproof bowls will work just fine. Just adjust the baking time if needed.
Final Thoughts
This French Onion Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe is truly a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that feels like a warm embrace on chilly days. With its simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a fantastic recipe to keep in your meal rotation. Trust me, once you try this combination of creamy, cheesy goodness topped with crispy onions, it’s going to become one of your household favorites. So gather your ingredients and dive into this deliciously cozy casserole experience.
Print
French Onion Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This hearty French Onion Chicken Noodle Casserole combines tender cooked chicken, creamy soup, and tangy French onion dip with cheesy egg noodles, all topped with crispy fried onions for a comforting and easy-to-make baked meal perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked chopped chicken
- 2 (10.5-oz) cans Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup
- 1 (16-oz) container refrigerated French Onion Dip (sour cream based)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 12 oz egg noodles
- 1 cup crushed French fried onions
Instructions
- Cook Noodles: Cook the egg noodles according to package directions until al dente, then drain thoroughly to remove excess water.
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350ºF (175ºC) and lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked chopped chicken, unsalted cream of chicken soup, refrigerated French onion dip, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir in the cooked egg noodles until evenly distributed.
- Assemble Casserole: Pour the combined mixture into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the crushed French fried onions evenly on top to create a crispy topping.
- Bake: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until it is heated through and the topping is golden brown and crispy.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of black pepper or garlic powder to the mixture before baking.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat leftovers in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
- You can substitute shredded rotisserie chicken to save prep time.
- Use low-fat soup and dip options for a lighter version.
