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best easy cheesy chicken casserole

Best Easy Cheesy Chicken Casserole Recipe Ever


Description

Welcome to the ultimate Cheesy Chicken Casserole recipe! If you’re looking for a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful dinner that’s easy to prepare, this is the perfect dish for you. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight, a cozy family gathering, or meal prepping for the week, this cheesy baked chicken casserole will become a household favorite.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the best way to make cheesy chicken casserole, including expert cooking tips, ingredient substitutions, storage instructions, and serving suggestions to help you create the perfect dish every time.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 3 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
  • 2 cups uncooked pasta (penne, rotini, or egg noodles)
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon salt

Optional Add-ins:

  • 1 cup broccoli florets (for a veggie-packed casserole)
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a little spice)
  • 1 cup cooked bacon bits (for extra flavor)

Topping:

  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter

Instructions

Step1: Cook the Pasta

Boil the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step3: Mix the Casserole Base

In a large bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, sour cream, 1 cup cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well until smooth.

Step4: Add Chicken and Pasta

Fold in the shredded chicken and cooked pasta, mixing until evenly coated. If using broccoli, bacon, or extra ingredients, add them at this stage.

Step5: Assemble the Casserole

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Step6: Add Cheese and Topping

Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese over the top. Then, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese.

Step7: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 25–30 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly and golden brown on top.

Step8: Serve and Enjoy!

Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy this cheesy, creamy, and comforting chicken bake with your favorite sides!

Notes

  • Use Rotisserie Chicken – Saves time and adds extra flavor.
  • Make it Gluten-Free – Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs.
  • For Extra Creaminess – Add ½ cup of cream cheese to the sauce.
  • Spice it Up – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a kick.