Introduction
Chicken pasta casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that combines tender chicken, pasta, and a creamy sauce, all baked to perfection. This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or as a satisfying meal for gatherings. It’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor, making it a go-to option for families seeking a delicious one-dish meal.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: 2 cups, cooked and shredded
– Pasta: 8 ounces, uncooked (your choice, such as penne or rotini)
– Cream of chicken soup: 1 can (10.5 ounces)
– Chicken broth: 1 cup
– Sour cream: 1 cup
– Shredded cheese: 2 cups (cheddar or your preferred cheese)
– Vegetables: 1 cup (like broccoli or peas, optional)
– Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon
– Onion powder: 1 teaspoon
– Salt and pepper: to taste
– Olive oil: 1 tablespoon (for cooking)
Prep Time
The preparation time for this chicken pasta casserole is approximately 15 minutes. This includes gathering your ingredients and cooking your pasta.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cook time for the casserole is about 30 minutes. Therefore, the total time for making this dish comes to around 45 minutes. This recipe yields approximately 6 servings, making it perfect for a family meal or leftovers for the week.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium heat, add some olive oil and sauté bite-sized pieces of chicken until they are fully cooked and browned. This should take about 6-8 minutes.
Step 4: Add Vegetables
Stir in chopped onions and bell peppers to the skillet with the chicken. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until vegetables are softened.
Step 5: Mix in Sauce
Pour in your choice of pasta sauce and stir well to combine all ingredients in the skillet. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Chicken Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the chicken and sauce mixture, ensuring that the pasta is evenly coated.
Step 7: Prepare the Casserole Dish
Pour the pasta and chicken mixture into a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
Step 8: Add Cheese
Sprinkle shredded cheese generously over the top of the casserole mixture.
Step 9: Bake the Casserole
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Step 10: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Note 1: Chicken Options
You can use cooked rotisserie chicken for a quicker preparation.
Note 2: Pasta Type
Any type of pasta can be used, such as penne, fusilli, or rotini.
Note 3: Storage Instructions
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Note 4: Freezing
This dish can be frozen before baking. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight and then bake as directed.
