Introduction

This Crazy Good Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Packed with tender chicken, gooey cheese, and savory bacon, it’s easy to prepare and sure to please the whole family.

A white oval dish is filled with a creamy baked pasta layered with large pasta shells coated in a smooth, melted white cheese sauce. Chunks of tender, light brown grilled chicken are mixed throughout, adding texture. Crispy small, dark red bacon pieces are sprinkled over the top, contrasting with the creamy sauce. The whole dish is finished with a generous sprinkle of fresh, finely chopped green parsley. The surface behind the dish is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3 cups cooked chicken, shredded (about 2 large chicken breasts)
2 cups egg noodles, uncooked
1 can (10.5 oz / 300 g) cream of chicken soup
1 cup sour cream
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
½ cup cooked and crumbled bacon (about 6 slices)
½ cup milk
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
2 tablespoons chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch (or similar size) baking dish to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cook the egg noodles in a large pot of salted boiling water until just al dente, meaning they should be slightly firm as they will continue cooking in the oven. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: In a large bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until the sauce is smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Stir the cooked noodles, shredded chicken, half of the cheddar cheese, and half of the crumbled bacon into the sauce. Mix thoroughly so that everything is evenly coated with the sauce.
Step 5: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and bacon evenly over the top.
Step 6: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly.
Step 7: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired for a fresh finish.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, try adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce mixture.
You can substitute rotisserie chicken to save time and add a little extra seasoning from the stock.
Swap the bacon for cooked sausage or omit it for a vegetarian-friendly version by adding sautéed mushrooms.
Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter, tangier sauce.
Make it ahead and refrigerate; bake slightly longer (about 10 more minutes) if cooking straight from the fridge.

Storage

Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 15–20 minutes. For longer storage, freeze the casserole before baking in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a creamy pasta dish served in a white bowl, showing several layers: large shell-shaped pasta covered in a thick, light yellow cheese sauce forms the base layer, topped with chunks of golden-brown grilled chicken. On top of the chicken and pasta, there is a scattering of crispy, reddish-brown bacon bits and finely chopped green herbs, mostly parsley, adding color contrast. Finely grated white cheese is sprinkled evenly across the dish, giving texture and enhancing the creamy look. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of noodle?

Yes, you can substitute egg noodles with other pasta shapes such as penne, rotini, or shells. Just be sure to cook them al dente since they will continue cooking in the oven.

Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to a day ahead and keep it covered in the refrigerator. When ready, bake it covered and then uncovered as directed. This makes meal prep simple and convenient.