Description
This Creamy Chicken Casserole is the ultimate weeknight comfort meal designed for busy families. It features succulent pieces of chicken tossed with al dente pasta in a rich, velvety cheese sauce. Baked to perfection until the top is golden and bubbly, this dish balances savory flavors with a satisfying texture. It is a hearty, foolproof, and pantry-friendly staple that is guaranteed to please a crowd without requiring hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
12 oz penne or rotini pasta
3 tbsp butter
3 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup sour cream
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, usually 1-2 minutes less than package directions. Drain and set aside.
In a large saucepan or skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux, being careful not to burn it.
Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth and thickened into a creamy sauce.
Remove from heat and stir in the sour cream, garlic powder, half of the cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper.
Combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and sauce in a large bowl, mixing well.
Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Top with the remaining cheddar and the parmesan cheese.
Bake for 25 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbling.
Let sit for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
You can prep the casserole ahead of time, cover it, and keep it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. If baking from cold, add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cook time. To add extra nutrition, stir in a cup of steamed broccoli or peas before baking.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 25
- Category: Meals
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American