Chicken pasta casserole is a classic comfort food that combines tender chicken, pasta, vegetables, and a creamy sauce into a delicious and satisfying dish. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you need a hearty meal, this casserole is easy to make and sure to please everyone at the table. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, this recipe is a must-try.
Ingredients
- 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until the onion is translucent.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large bowl, combine the condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, dried thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked chicken, sautéed onion and garlic, and thawed peas and carrots to the sauce mixture. Stir until everything is well combined. Gently fold in the cooked penne pasta.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the chicken and pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly. In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy this comforting and hearty dish with a side salad or some garlic bread!
FAQs
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, remove the cover and bake as directed.
Q: Can I use a different type of meat? A: Absolutely! You can use cooked turkey, ham, or even a plant-based meat substitute. Just make sure to cook the meat thoroughly before adding it to the casserole.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Q: Can I freeze chicken pasta casserole? A: Yes, you can freeze the casserole. Assemble the casserole but do not bake it. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
Q: What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup? A: If you prefer not to use canned soup, you can make a homemade version by combining 2 tablespoons of butter, 2 tablespoons of flour, 1 cup of chicken broth, and 1 cup of milk. Cook until thickened and use in place of the canned soup.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to the casserole? A: Yes, this recipe is very versatile. You can add vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or spinach to the chicken mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free? A: Yes, you can make a gluten-free version by using gluten-free pasta and ensuring that all other ingredients are gluten-free.
This chicken pasta casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Its hearty ingredients and rich flavors make it a perfect addition to any meal. Enjoy!