Introduction
There’s something truly comforting about a warm, bubbling casserole fresh from the oven, and this Cheesy Chicken Pasta Casserole is the epitome of cozy, home-cooked goodness! With tender pieces of chicken, rich cheeses, and a delightful blend of flavors, this dish is a fantastic way to serve a hearty meal that the whole family will love. It’s simple to prepare and perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or even a weekend gathering. Let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into this cheesy pasta paradise!
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). The warmth will create a perfect baking environment for that cheesy goodness!
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Drain the pasta and set it aside, letting it rest for a moment.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked, shredded chicken with ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, cream of chicken soup, and chicken broth.
- Add the frozen peas, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the mixture, stirring gently to ensure that all the flavors blend beautifully.
- Now, fold the cooked penne pasta into the creamy chicken mixture until everything is well combined, each piece of pasta coated in that luscious sauce.
- Transfer the entire mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining cup of mozzarella cheese generously over the top of the casserole, allowing it to create a gooey, melting layer.
- In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with a drizzle of olive oil, then sprinkle this crunchy topping evenly over the cheese, adding a delightful texture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly, releasing an irresistible aroma throughout your kitchen.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving—this will help everything set beautifully.
Notes or Tips
This casserole is incredibly versatile! Feel free to swap the chicken for shredded turkey or even leave it out for a delicious vegetarian version. Adding some sautéed veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms can enhance the flavor profile wonderfully. To make it even more decadent, consider mixing in a bit of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy twist!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe employs the classic technique of casserole baking, which allows flavors to meld together beautifully while creating a crispy topping. Pre-cooking the pasta until it is just al dente ensures that it doesn’t become mushy during baking, maintaining a delightful texture.
FAQ
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it goes in cold.
What can I serve with this casserole?
A fresh green salad or steamed veggies make the perfect complement to this rich and cheesy dish. Garlic bread is also a fantastic choice to soak up all the creamy goodness!
Conclusion
This Cheesy Chicken Pasta Casserole is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with warmth and comfort that will surely bring smiles around the dinner table. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s destined to become a family favorite. So gather your loved ones, serve up a generous portion, and enjoy the bliss of good food and cherished memories!