Indulge in the warmth and flavor of home-cooked comfort with our Homestyle Chicken Penne Casserole—a hearty and satisfying dish that brings together tender pasta, succulent chicken, and creamy goodness in every bite. Perfect for cozy family dinners or potluck gatherings, this recipe is sure to become a favorite among both kids and adults alike. Join us as we uncover the secrets to creating this irresistible casserole that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions:
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- Cook Penne Pasta:
- Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Mix Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta, diced chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Layer in Baking Dish:
- Transfer the pasta and chicken mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Add Cheese Topping:
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the pasta mixture.
- Prepare Breadcrumb Topping:
- In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and melted butter, stirring until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.
- Top with Breadcrumbs:
- Sprinkle the buttered breadcrumbs over the shredded cheese layer.
- Bake:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove Foil and Bake Further:
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
- Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Add Vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value of the casserole by adding diced vegetables such as bell peppers, peas, or broccoli to the pasta and chicken mixture.
- Swap Protein: Substitute the cooked chicken with cooked turkey, ham, or even cooked ground beef for a different flavor profile.
- Creamy Variation: Use cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken soup for a richer and earthier flavor.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or basil to customize the flavor of the casserole to your liking.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto Version: To make this casserole keto-friendly, replace the penne pasta with cooked spaghetti squash or spiralized zucchini noodles. Use a keto-friendly cream of chicken soup and sour cream, and omit the breadcrumbs or use crushed pork rinds as a low-carb topping.
- Low-Carb Version: Reduce the amount of pasta used in the recipe and increase the proportion of chicken and cheese to make the dish lower in carbs. Skip the breadcrumbs entirely or use a small amount for texture without adding too many carbs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken from scratch? A: Yes, using rotisserie chicken is a convenient shortcut and adds flavor to the casserole. Simply shred the cooked rotisserie chicken and use it as directed in the recipe.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers of this casserole? A: Yes, this casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer individual portions or the entire casserole to freezer-safe containers or bags. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven or microwave.
Q: Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe? A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Swiss to customize the flavor of the casserole to your taste preferences.
Savor the comforting flavors of home with our Homestyle Chicken Penne Casserole—a timeless classic that’s perfect for any occasion. From its creamy texture to its savory taste, every bite is a reminder of the simple joys of family dinners and shared meals. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or enjoying a quiet night in, this casserole is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your appetite. So gather your ingredients and get ready to create a dish that’s bound to become a new family favorite.
Delight in the nostalgic flavors of our Homestyle Chicken Penne Casserole—a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta, this recipe is a testament to the timeless appeal of homestyle cooking. So why wait? Gather your loved ones around the table and savor the taste of home with this irresistible casserole!
