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
Scale
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.
