Indulge in the comforting flavors of this Homestyle Chicken Penne Casserole, a deliciously creamy dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
There’s something deeply satisfying about a hearty casserole that brings together tender chicken, pasta, and a creamy sauce all in one dish. This Homestyle Chicken Penne Casserole does just that, combining simple ingredients with classic flavors to create a meal that will please everyone at the table. Whether you’re craving comfort food or looking for an easy dinner solution, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.
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
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
- Boil Pasta: Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Add Chicken and Pasta: Add the cooked diced chicken and drained penne pasta to the sauce mixture. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the chicken and pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
Step 5: Prepare the Topping
- Combine Breadcrumbs and Butter: In a small bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs and melted butter until well combined.
- Top the Casserole: Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the cheese layer, covering the entire surface.
Step 6: Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional parsley if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations
- Vegetables: Add diced bell peppers, peas, or broccoli to the casserole for added nutrition and flavor.
- Protein Options: Substitute cooked turkey or ham for the chicken if desired.
- Creamy Variations: Use cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup instead of cream of chicken for a different flavor profile.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions
Keto Version:
- Pasta Substitute: Replace penne pasta with zucchini noodles (zoodles) or spaghetti squash for a lower carb option.
- Creamy Sauce: Use a combination of heavy cream and chicken broth instead of cream of chicken soup and milk. Thicken with a keto-friendly thickener like xanthan gum.
- Breadcrumbs: Omit breadcrumbs or use crushed pork rinds for a keto-friendly topping.
Low-Carb Version:
- Moderate Carbs: Reduce the amount of penne pasta or use a low-carb pasta alternative such as shirataki noodles.
- Sauce Modifications: Use reduced-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt to lower the carb content of the sauce.
- Cheese Choices: Choose a lower-fat cheese or reduce the amount of cheese to lower the overall fat content.
This Homestyle Chicken Penne Casserole is the epitome of comfort food, combining creamy textures with savory flavors for a meal that will warm your soul. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for a meal prep option for the week, this casserole delivers on taste and convenience. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a recipe that you’ll turn to time and time again. Enjoy the deliciousness of homemade comfort food with this hearty and satisfying casserole!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken?
A: Yes, rotisserie chicken works great in this recipe. Simply shred the cooked chicken and use it as directed in the recipe.
Q: Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it, covered, until you’re ready to bake it. Allow it to come to room temperature before baking, and adjust the baking time as needed.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven or microwave.
Q: Can I use different types of cheese?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses for a unique flavor profile.
Q: What side dishes pair well with this casserole?
A: This casserole pairs well with a variety of side dishes such as a green salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread. Choose your favorites to complete the meal!