Looking for a comforting and budget-friendly meal that’s quick to prepare and satisfying for the whole family? This Chicken Ramen Casserole is a delicious twist on classic ramen noodles—baked into a creamy, cheesy casserole with tender chicken and vegetables. It’s the ultimate comfort food that transforms pantry staples into a hearty dish you'll crave again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Ramen Casserole
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Budget-friendly: Uses inexpensive ingredients like ramen noodles, canned soup, and frozen veggies.
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Customizable: You can tweak it to match your taste or what’s in your fridge.
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One-dish meal: Protein, carbs, and veggies all in one baking dish.
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Family-approved: A hit with kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for this easy casserole:
For the Casserole Base:
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3 packs of instant ramen noodles (discard the seasoning packets)
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2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
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1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
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1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
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1/2 cup sour cream
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1/2 cup milk
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1 cup frozen peas and carrots (or any mixed vegetables)
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/2 teaspoon onion powder
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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Salt to taste
For the Topping:
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1 cup crushed Ritz crackers or bread crumbs
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2 tablespoons melted butter
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Optional: Additional cheese for topping
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
Step 2: Cook the Ramen
Boil the ramen noodles for 2–3 minutes (just until slightly softened). Drain and set aside. Do not overcook them as they will continue cooking in the oven.
Step 3: Mix the Sauce
In a large bowl, combine:
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Cream of chicken soup
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Cream of mushroom soup
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Sour cream
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Milk
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Garlic powder
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Onion powder
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Black pepper
Whisk until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Combine Everything
To the sauce, add:
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Cooked ramen noodles
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Shredded chicken
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Mixed vegetables
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Shredded cheddar cheese
Mix until everything is well combined and coated in the sauce.
Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish
Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Step 6: Add Topping
In a small bowl, mix crushed crackers with melted butter. Sprinkle this evenly over the casserole. Add extra shredded cheese on top if you like it extra cheesy.
Step 7: Bake
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top. Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving.
Variations
Want to put your own spin on it? Try these:
1. Spicy Chicken Ramen Casserole
Add a dash of sriracha or some red pepper flakes to the sauce for a kick.
2. Buffalo Chicken Ramen Casserole
Mix in 1/4 cup buffalo sauce and top with blue cheese crumbles.
3. Veggie Loaded Version
Use a medley of sautéed mushrooms, spinach, corn, and bell peppers.
4. Asian-Inspired Twist
Replace cream soups with a teriyaki or soy-garlic sauce and add sesame seeds on top.
Tips for Best Results
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Don’t overcook the ramen: Slightly undercooked is best so they don't get mushy.
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Use rotisserie chicken: Saves time and adds flavor.
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Season to taste: Add more salt or seasoning if desired.
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Let it rest: This helps the casserole firm up for easy slicing.
Make-Ahead and Freezing
Make-Ahead
You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate. Bake as directed, adding 5 extra minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.
Freezing
Wrap the unbaked casserole tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. To use, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Chicken Ramen Casserole with:
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A crisp green salad
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Garlic bread or dinner rolls
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A side of steamed broccoli or green beans
Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave. Add a splash of milk if it looks dry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use other meats?
Absolutely! Try cooked turkey, ground chicken, or even bacon bits.
Q: Can I make this casserole without cream soup?
Yes, you can substitute homemade white sauce or use Greek yogurt in place of cream soups.
Q: What kind of ramen should I use?
Any instant ramen works—chicken, beef, shrimp, or veggie (just discard the flavor packet).
Q: Can I add eggs like traditional ramen?
If you want a ramen-style feel, you can add a soft-boiled or baked egg on top after baking.
Nutrition Info (Per Serving, Approximate)
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Calories: 450
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Protein: 25g
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Carbs: 30g
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Fat: 25g
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Fiber: 3g
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Sugar: 2g
Note: Nutrition values vary depending on ingredients used.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Ramen Casserole is the perfect mashup of convenience and comfort. It’s easy to throw together on a weeknight, yet flavorful enough to serve to guests. Whether you're feeding picky eaters or just craving something cozy, this dish checks all the boxes.
You don’t need fancy ingredients or culinary skills—just a few pantry staples and some love. Give it a try and make it your own with your favorite toppings and variations.