Homestyle Chicken Penne Casserole

This Homestyle Chicken Penne Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in. Loaded with tender penne pasta, juicy chicken, and a creamy sauce, this casserole is topped with melty cheddar cheese and buttery breadcrumbs for a delightful crunch. It’s a dish that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table and is quick to prepare, making it an easy weeknight option.

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

Directions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter to prevent sticking.

2. Cook the Pasta:

Cook the penne pasta in salted, boiling water until al dente, following the package instructions. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

3. Combine Ingredients:

In a large pot or mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne, diced chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.

4. Assemble the Casserole:

Spread half of the pasta mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the first layer. Then, spread the remaining pasta mixture on top of the cheese layer.

5. Add the Toppings:

Sprinkle the second cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top layer of the pasta. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter, then sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the cheese to create a crispy topping.

6. Bake:

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling around the edges and the top is golden brown.

7. Let it Rest:

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the casserole set and makes it easier to serve.

Quick Tips:

• Chicken Substitutes: You can use leftover rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken, or even shredded turkey in this recipe.
• Cheese Variations: Try swapping out the cheddar for Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile.
• Make it Your Own: Add some veggies like broccoli, peas, or spinach for added color and nutrition.

Recipe Details:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Calories: 420 per serving
• Servings: 8

This Homestyle Chicken Penne Casserole is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With its creamy sauce, tender pasta, and cheesy, crispy topping, it’s a dish that will quickly become a family favorite. Serve it with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal!

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