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Cheesy Chicken Pasta Casserole

A delicious and comforting cheesy chicken pasta casserole that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Made with tender chicken, pasta, and a rich cheese sauce, this dish is easy to prepare and sure to be a family favorite.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6
Course: Casserole, Chicken, Pasta
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 395
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • Ingredients:
  • Pasta & Chicken:
  • 1 pound pasta penne or fusilli
  • 500 g boneless skinless chicken breast or thigh, sliced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Cheese Sauce:
  • 3 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp flour
  • 1 cup half and half
  • 1 cup white cheddar cheese shredded
  • 2 tbsp Parmesan cheese grated
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp paprika optional
  • Topping:
  • 2 cups mozzarella cheese shredded
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped (optional)

Equipment

  • 1 Large pot (for boiling pasta)
  • 1 skillet (for cooking chicken)
  • 1 9x13 inch baking dish
  • 1 whisk
  • 1 mixing bowl
  • 1 oven

Method
 

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Cook for 6-8 minutes (for breasts) or 15-18 minutes (for thighs) until fully cooked. Set aside.
  3. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly add half and half and heavy cream, whisking constantly. Add cheddar, Parmesan, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir until smooth.
  4. Assemble the Casserole: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). In a mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, chicken, and cheese sauce. Pour into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with mozzarella cheese.
  5. Bake: Place in oven and bake for 20-30 minutes until cheese is melted and golden brown.
  6. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.