Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). This step is crucial as it gets your oven ready for baking the casserole to perfection.
Prepare a 9x13-inch baking pan by lightly spraying it with cooking spray. This will prevent any sticking, ensuring a smooth serving experience later.
Cook the egg noodles according to the package directions, then drain them well. They should be slightly al dente since they will continue to cook in the oven.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, onion powder, garlic powder, and frozen mixed vegetables. Stir these ingredients together until well mixed, creating a creamy filling.
Gently fold in the drained egg noodles into the mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated with the sauce.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly. Make sure it fills the pan to the edges.
In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter until the crackers are thoroughly coated. This creates a delightful topping.
Evenly sprinkle the cracker and butter mixture over the top of the casserole. This will give it a golden, crunchy texture once baked.
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’re looking for it to be heated through and the top to be golden brown.
Once done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will help set the filling, making it easier to serve.
