If you’re craving something warm, cheesy, and downright satisfying, look no further than the Cheesy Chicken Casserole: A Comforting Family Favorite Recipe. This dish combines tender cooked chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luscious blend of cheeses all baked together in a creamy sauce that hugs every bite. It’s a true crowd-pleaser that feels like a big, cozy hug on a plate. Whether you’re feeding a busy family or want a dish that doubles as irresistible leftovers, this casserole strikes all the right notes between creamy, cheesy, and flavorful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this casserole lies in a handful of simple, accessible ingredients that together create a melody of texture and flavor. Each one contributes in its own special way, giving you a comforting dish that’s both satisfying and versatile.
- Cooked chicken (3 cups): Shredded or diced, it’s the hearty protein base that makes this so filling.
- Cooked pasta (2 cups): Rotini or penne work beautifully to catch all that creamy sauce.
- Cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz can): A rich and flavorful binder that keeps everything moist.
- Sour cream (½ cup): Adds tang and richness for a luscious texture.
- Milk (1 cup): Balances the creaminess and helps thin the sauce just right.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Brings a subtle savory warmth to the casserole.
- Onion powder (½ teaspoon): Adds depth without overpowering the dish.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and flavor balance.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups, divided): Melts beautifully for that gooey, golden finish.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (½ cup): Enhances the cheesy flavor with a sharp, nutty note.
- Breadcrumbs (½ cup, optional): Provides a delightful crunchy topping when mixed with butter.
- Melted butter (1 tablespoon, for topping): Helps brown the breadcrumbs into a perfect crisp crust.
How to Make Cheesy Chicken Casserole: A Comforting Family Favorite Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Mix Your Creamy Base
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish so nothing sticks. In a large bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until creamy and smooth. Then stir in 1½ cups of shredded cheddar along with the Parmesan cheese to infuse the sauce with layers of cheesy goodness.
Step 2: Combine Chicken and Pasta
Next, fold in the cooked chicken and pasta into the cheesy sauce mixture. Make sure every piece is generously coated so that once baked, the pasta and chicken soak up all that creamy flavor, creating a bursting-with-taste casserole.
Step 3: Assemble and Add Toppings
Spread this delicious mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese across the top—you want that extra melty, golden cheese layer. If you’re craving some crunch, toss the breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle them evenly over the cheese to add a perfect toasted crispiness.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake your casserole uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes until it’s piping hot, bubbly around the edges, and the top turns a mouthwatering golden brown. As it bakes, the flavors marry together beautifully, promising a dish that’s just bursting with warmth and comfort.
Step 5: Let It Rest
Once out of the oven, give your casserole a 5-minute rest. This little pause helps everything set, making it easier to scoop and enjoy every cheesy, tender bite without it falling apart.
How to Serve Cheesy Chicken Casserole: A Comforting Family Favorite Recipe
Garnishes
While this casserole stands strong on its own, a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives adds a vibrant pop of color and a hint of herbal freshness that brightens each bite. For an extra touch of indulgence, a small dollop of sour cream on top provides a cool contrast to the warm, cheesy goodness.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with crisp, green sides such as a simple salad with a tangy vinaigrette or steamed vegetables like broccoli and green beans. The freshness and crunch balance the richness, rounding out your meal for a wholesome dinner everyone will love.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the casserole in individual ramekins or bowls to make portions look extra special for guests or family nights. You can also sprinkle some extra sharp cheddar or crumbled bacon on top before baking to customize it to your taste buds. It’s a dish that welcomes creativity—make it your own!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making the reheated bites even more delicious.
Freezing
This casserole freezes well! Before baking, cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, bake from frozen by adding extra baking time until heated through and bubbly.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F covered loosely with foil to prevent drying, or microwave individual portions. Add a splash of milk or a little butter to keep it creamy and delicious as it warms up.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar and Parmesan bring classic flavors, you can swap in mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a smoky gouda for a different twist. Just keep the total cheese quantity similar to maintain that creamy texture.
Is this casserole freezer-friendly?
Yes! You can prepare it ahead and freeze before baking. Just be sure to cover it well and adjust baking times to ensure it’s heated evenly.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely. Steamed broccoli, peas, or mushrooms make great additions. Just toss them in with the chicken and pasta before baking to add extra nutrition and flavor.
What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
If you want to avoid canned soups, you can make a quick homemade white sauce with butter, flour, milk, and chicken broth for a fresher touch that still keeps the casserole creamy.
How many servings does this casserole make?
This recipe yields about 6 hearty servings, perfect for a family dinner with potential leftovers for next day lunches.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about Cheesy Chicken Casserole: A Comforting Family Favorite Recipe that makes it a go-to for busy weeknights and family gatherings alike. Its rich, cheesy layers and tender chicken wrapped in creamy sauce make it the kind of dish everyone asks to have again. I hope you give this recipe a whirl and find yourself falling in love with its cozy, hearty charm just as much as I have.
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Cheesy Chicken Casserole: A Comforting Family Favorite Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Cheesy Chicken Casserole is a warm, comforting, and easy-to-make family favorite featuring tender cooked chicken, pasta, and a creamy cheese sauce baked to golden perfection. This hearty casserole combines savory flavors with a cheesy topping that creates a satisfying meal perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 2 cups cooked pasta (such as rotini or penne)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Topping (Optional)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Mix Creamy Sauce: In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well until all the ingredients are fully blended. Then, mix in 1½ cups of the shredded cheddar cheese along with the grated Parmesan cheese to create a rich, cheesy sauce.
- Add Chicken and Pasta: Fold the cooked chicken and cooked pasta into the cheese sauce mixture. Stir gently until the chicken and pasta are evenly coated with the creamy mixture.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure uniform baking.
- Add Cheese and Topping: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top. For added crunch, if desired, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle this mixture over the cheese layer.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the top is golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps set the casserole for easier slicing and enhances flavors.
Notes
- This casserole is perfect for using up leftover rotisserie chicken, making it an easy weeknight dinner.
- For added nutrition, add steamed broccoli or peas to the casserole mixture before baking.
- To make a variation, swap the pasta for cooked rice for a different texture and flavor.
- The breadcrumb topping is optional but adds a lovely crunchy contrast to the creamy casserole.
