Name: Chicken Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or chopped); 2 cups pasta (penne, elbow macaroni, or rotini); 4 tablespoons butter; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup milk or half-and-half; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided); 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: 1 cup frozen peas, mushrooms, or spinach

I’ve made many comfort food recipes over the years, but nothing brings warmth to a table quite like a creamy Chicken Casserole. It’s one of those classic dishes that feels like a hug in a bowl—savory, rich, and loaded with tender chicken and pasta baked under a bubbling golden cheese crust. Every bite is layered with flavor and texture, from the juicy chunks of chicken to the slightly crisp top and the gooey, herb-kissed sauce underneath.

This recipe came into my life during a hectic week when I needed something satisfying, easy to make ahead, and guaranteed to please a hungry crowd. After a few tweaks and trials, I landed on this version, and now it’s become one of my go-tos. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or something cozy for a cold weekend, this Chicken Casserole always hits the spot.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Casserole

Creamy & Comforting: Rich béchamel-style sauce meets tender chicken and pasta in every mouthful.
Simple Ingredients: Nothing fancy—just pantry staples and a few fridge favorites.
Perfect for Make-Ahead: Easily prepared the day before and baked when needed.
Freezer Friendly: Store it and reheat for an easy weeknight meal.
Versatile: Works with different veggies, pasta shapes, or even leftover rotisserie chicken.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

For this Chicken Casserole, I usually go with cooked, shredded chicken breast because it holds up well in the creamy sauce and gives a leaner bite. That said, if you prefer richer flavor, cooked chicken thighs are an excellent choice—they stay juicy and offer a deeper taste. Leftover rotisserie chicken is also a time-saving hero here, especially when you’re short on prep time.

If you’re starting from scratch, poaching chicken breasts in seasoned broth or roasting them with herbs works beautifully. The key is making sure the chicken is fully cooked and well seasoned before it joins the casserole.

Options for Substitutions

Don’t worry if you don’t have every ingredient on hand—this recipe is flexible:

Pasta: Elbow macaroni, penne, or rotini all work great. Use what you have.
Cheese: Swap cheddar for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a mix of cheeses for a new twist.
Vegetables: Add peas, spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms to bump up the nutrition.
Dairy-Free: Use unsweetened almond milk and a dairy-free cheese alternative for a lighter, lactose-free version.
Gluten-Free: Substitute with gluten-free pasta and use a gluten-free flour for the roux if needed.

This casserole is all about comfort, not perfection—so use what works for you and make it your own.

Ingredients for this Chicken Casserole

Cooked Chicken
The star of the dish—tender, shredded or chopped chicken provides the hearty base and soaks up all that creamy sauce.

Pasta
A short pasta like penne or elbow macaroni holds the sauce well and gives the casserole its structure and satisfying texture.

Butter
Used to start the roux, butter adds richness and helps develop the base of the creamy sauce.

All-Purpose Flour
This thickens the sauce and creates that velvety, clingy texture that binds everything together.

Chicken Broth
Infuses the sauce with savory depth and balances the richness of the dairy.

Milk or Half-and-Half
Gives the sauce its creamy consistency. Half-and-half makes it extra luscious, but regular milk works just fine too.

Cheddar Cheese
Melted into the sauce and sprinkled on top for that irresistible golden crust and gooey finish.

Onions & Garlic
Sautéed for flavor—they’re the aromatic backbone that makes the dish pop.

Italian Seasoning
Adds just enough herbal brightness to balance the creaminess.

Salt & Pepper
To season the layers and make all the other ingredients shine.

Optional add-ins like mushrooms, peas, or chopped spinach can enhance the dish without changing its cozy character.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil the pasta in salted water until just al dente. It’ll cook a bit more in the oven, so undercooking slightly keeps it from turning mushy. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Sauce Base

In a large skillet or saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant—about 3–4 minutes.

Step 3: Build the Creamy Sauce

Stir in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to eliminate the raw taste. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, then the milk or half-and-half. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth.

Step 4: Add Flavor and Cheese

Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir in about half of the shredded cheese until melted and combined.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta and chicken into the sauce. Stir to coat everything evenly. If using vegetables like peas or mushrooms, fold them in now.

Step 6: Transfer to Baking Dish

Spoon the mixture into a greased casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top for that golden, bubbly finish.

Step 7: Bake

Place the dish in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden and the edges are bubbling.

How Long to Cook the Chicken Casserole

Once assembled, the Chicken Casserole needs to bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese on top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling at the edges. If you’re using ingredients straight from the fridge, you might need an extra 5 minutes in the oven—just keep an eye on that cheesy top.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Casserole

Slightly Undercook the Pasta: Pasta continues to cook while baking, so boiling it just shy of al dente helps it stay firm and pleasant.
Shred Cheese Fresh: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect how smoothly it melts. Freshly grated cheese gives better melt and flavor.
Taste the Sauce Before Baking: Adjust the salt and seasoning before mixing everything together—it’s your best chance to balance the flavor.
Grease the Baking Dish: It helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Let it Rest Before Serving: Allowing the casserole to cool for 5–10 minutes before serving helps it set and makes slicing neater.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Overcooking the Pasta: Pasta can turn mushy if cooked too long before baking. Remember, it will finish cooking in the oven, so only cook it until it’s just al dente.
Not Stirring the Sauce Enough: If you don’t constantly stir the sauce as it thickens, it can form lumps or burn on the bottom. Keep an eye on it to ensure a smooth, creamy result.
Using Cold Ingredients: Cold chicken or cold milk can cause the sauce to separate when added. Warm everything to room temperature for a smoother mix.
Underseasoning: This casserole needs enough salt to bring out the flavors of the chicken and cheese. Taste the sauce before you combine everything, and don’t hesitate to add a little extra seasoning.
Not Greasing the Dish: Skipping this step can cause the casserole to stick, making it tricky to serve. Always grease your baking dish for a cleaner, easier experience.

What to Serve with Chicken Casserole?

1. Green Salad

A simple mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole and adds a fresh element to the meal.

2. Garlic Bread

A crispy, buttery garlic bread on the side is a classic choice to soak up any leftover creamy sauce.

3. Steamed Veggies

Broccoli, green beans, or carrots add some extra color and nutrition to your plate without overpowering the casserole.

4. Roasted Potatoes

If you want a heartier side, roasted potatoes seasoned with rosemary and garlic are a great choice to complement the creamy casserole.

5. Coleslaw

A crunchy, tangy coleslaw adds a nice contrast to the richness of the dish, offering a refreshing bite between spoonfuls of casserole.

6. Cornbread

A warm, slightly sweet cornbread is an excellent option to serve alongside and adds a comforting, slightly crumbly texture.

7. Fruit Salad

For a lighter, slightly sweet side, a fresh fruit salad can balance out the heaviness of the casserole and add a touch of brightness.

8. Pickled Vegetables

Pickled cucumbers, onions, or jalapeños add a sharp, zesty contrast to the creamy casserole and can help cut through its richness.

Storage Instructions

Once the casserole has cooled to room temperature, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. If you plan to enjoy it later, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15–20 minutes until hot and bubbly. You can cover it with foil to prevent the top from getting too brown.

For longer storage, Chicken Casserole can be frozen! Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. It will keep well for up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes until hot throughout.

Estimated Nutrition

Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving:

Calories: 400–450 kcal
Protein: 30–35g
Carbohydrates: 35–40g
Fat: 20–25g
Fiber: 3–4g
Sodium: 600–700mg

Nutrition may vary depending on specific ingredients, portions, or substitutions used in the recipe. For a lighter version, consider using lower-fat cheese and reducing the butter.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this Chicken Casserole lighter?

You can reduce the calorie count by using lower-fat cheese, replacing the cream or half-and-half with a lighter milk alternative (like almond milk), and using leaner cuts of chicken, like chicken breast. You can also swap in whole wheat pasta for added fiber.

Can I make Chicken Casserole ahead of time?

Yes! This casserole is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble it a day ahead, cover it tightly, and refrigerate until ready to bake. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.

Can I freeze Chicken Casserole?

Absolutely! After assembling the casserole, allow it to cool completely before freezing. Store in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with foil and plastic wrap. It freezes well for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F (175°C) until hot.

Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken for this casserole?

Yes! Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut and adds extra flavor. Simply shred the chicken and fold it into the sauce—no need to cook it again!

What if I don’t have pasta? Can I use rice instead?

Definitely! You can swap in cooked rice for the pasta. Use the same ratio of chicken, sauce, and rice, but be sure to adjust your baking time since rice may absorb more sauce than pasta.

Can I add vegetables to this casserole?

Yes, adding veggies like peas, spinach, or broccoli is a great way to make this dish more nutritious. Simply fold them into the sauce before mixing in the chicken and pasta.

Can I make this casserole gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version, simply swap out the pasta for gluten-free pasta and use gluten-free flour for the sauce. Most of the other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

How do I prevent the casserole from being too dry?

Make sure to keep an eye on the sauce consistency—it should be thick but not too thick. If it seems too dry before baking, you can add a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen it up a bit. And don’t forget to bake it covered for the first part of the time to prevent the top from drying out.

Conclusion

This Chicken Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for feeding a crowd or just having a cozy meal at home. It’s simple to make, adaptable to what you have on hand, and always delivers on flavor. Whether you enjoy it fresh from the oven or reheat leftovers for a quick lunch, this dish never disappoints. Plus, it’s a fantastic recipe to tweak and personalize based on your preferences, making it a staple in any kitchen.