Description
This Chicken Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—a creamy, cheesy blend of shredded chicken, pasta, and a rich sauce, all baked to perfection. It’s hearty, satisfying, and perfect for feeding a crowd or preparing in advance for busy days.
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
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Cook the pasta in salted water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
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In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic, and sauté until softened.
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Stir in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, followed by the milk or half-and-half. Stir until the sauce thickens.
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Add half of the shredded cheese, Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir until smooth.
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Add the cooked pasta and chicken (and any optional vegetables), stirring to combine.
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Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish and sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.
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Bake for 20–25 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
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Allow the casserole to cool for 5–10 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes