Easy Chicken Penne Casserole (Print Version)
Easy Chicken Penne Casserole is a comforting, family-friendly meal. Creamy pasta, tender chicken, and cheesy goodness baked to perfection. Simple weeknight dinner!
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 30 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
# Ingredients:
→ Hearty Foundation
01 -
12 oz penne pasta, uncooked
02 -
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (from a rotisserie chicken for ease)
→ Creamy Comfort Sauce
03 -
2 tbsp unsalted butter
04 -
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
05 -
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
06 -
1 cup 2% milk
07 -
4 oz cream cheese, softened and cut into cubes
→ Savory Enhancers & Toppings
08 -
1/2 medium yellow onion, finely diced
09 -
2 cloves garlic, minced
10 -
1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
11 -
1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
12 -
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
13 -
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
14 -
Salt and black pepper to taste
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. Cook 12 oz penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside. This initial prep sets the stage for your delicious Easy Chicken Penne Casserole Recipe.
02 -
In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt 2 tbsp unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 1/2 medium yellow onion, finely diced, and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in 2 cloves garlic, minced, and 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
03 -
Sprinkle 2 tbsp all-purpose flour into the pot with the aromatics, stirring for 1 minute to create a roux. Gradually whisk in 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth and 1 cup 2% milk until smooth. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens slightly.
04 -
Reduce heat to low. Stir in 4 oz cream cheese, softened and cut into cubes, until fully melted and smooth. Add 1 cup of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and incorporated. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, ensuring a flavorful base for your Easy Chicken Penne Casserole Recipe.
05 -
Add the cooked 12 oz penne pasta and 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded, to the cheese sauce in the pot. Stir gently until all ingredients are evenly coated. This combination forms the hearty base of your Easy Chicken Penne Casserole Recipe.
06 -
Pour the pasta and chicken mixture into the prepared 9x13 inch baking dish. In a small bowl, combine the remaining 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese with 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
07 -
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly around the edges and the topping is golden brown. For the best Easy Chicken Penne Casserole Recipe, let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped.
# Notes:
01 -
For an even quicker prep, use a store-bought rotisserie chicken. Shredding it while still warm makes the process much easier.
02 -
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
03 -
Feel free to add a cup of frozen peas or corn to the mixture for extra veggies and color. You can also experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyere.
04 -
Serve this comforting casserole with a simple green salad or some crusty bread to complete your meal.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large pot
02 -
Large skillet
03 -
9x13 inch baking dish
04 -
Whisk
05 -
Measuring cups and spoons
06 -
Cutting board
07 -
Knife
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 560 kcal
Total Fat: 24 g
Total Carbohydrate: 52 g
Protein: 34 g