This creamy and cheesy chicken casserole is the ultimate comfort food! Tender pieces of chicken combined with perfectly cooked pasta are smothered in a rich, cheesy sauce and baked until golden and bubbling. It’s a family favorite that’s both easy to make and irresistibly satisfying, perfect for weeknight dinners or any cozy meal.
Whether you’re serving it for a family gathering or just craving a hearty, homemade dish, this casserole delivers all the comfort and flavor you need in one dish.
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 cups cooked pasta (penne, cavatappi, or rigatoni work best)
- 3 tbsp butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup milk
- 3 cups grated cheese (cheddar, Colby jack, Swiss, or a mix), reserving 1/2 cup for topping
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Make the cheese sauce
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes.
Sprinkle in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk and sour cream, cooking until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth.
3. Add the cheese and seasoning
Stir in 2 1/2 cups of the grated cheese (reserve 1/2 cup for topping), red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
4. Combine chicken and pasta
Fold in the cooked chicken and pasta, tossing until everything is evenly coated with the cheesy sauce. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
5. Bake to perfection
Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheese evenly over the top. Bake for 20–30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
6. Serve and enjoy
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this hearty, cheesy comfort food straight from the oven!
Tips & Variations
- Add veggies: Stir in peas, broccoli, or spinach for extra color and nutrition.
- Spicy twist: Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a kick.
- Cheese variations: Try gouda, fontina, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
- Make-ahead: Assemble the casserole a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
Storage
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Freeze before baking for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding 10–15 minutes to the baking time.
This Creamy Cheesy Chicken Casserole is the perfect combination of tender chicken, rich cheese, and perfectly baked pasta. Every bite is comforting, cheesy, and deeply satisfying—your new go-to family dinner!
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