Easy Chicken Penne Casserole Recipe (Print Version)
Chicken Penne Casserole is a comforting, family-friendly dish. Creamy pasta, tender chicken, and melted cheese baked to golden perfection. Simple weeknight meal.
# 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
02 -
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
→ Creamy Comfort Sauce
03 -
2 tbsp unsalted butter
04 -
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
05 -
1 1/2 cups chicken broth
06 -
1 1/2 cups whole milk
07 -
4 oz cream cheese, softened
→ Savory Enhancers & Topping
08 -
1/2 cup yellow onion, diced
09 -
2 cloves garlic, minced
10 -
1 cup frozen peas
11 -
1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
12 -
1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
13 -
1 tsp salt
14 -
1/2 tsp black pepper
15 -
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Cook 12 oz penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside. This foundational step ensures your Easy Chicken Penne Casserole Recipe starts perfectly.
02 -
In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, melt 2 tbsp unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 1/2 cup diced yellow onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in 2 cloves minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
03 -
Sprinkle 2 tbsp all-purpose flour into the skillet, stirring for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in 1 1/2 cups chicken broth and 1 1/2 cups whole milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat. Stir in 4 oz softened cream cheese until melted and smooth, creating the heart of your Easy Chicken Penne Casserole Recipe.
04 -
Remove from heat. Stir in the cooked penne pasta, 2 cups shredded cooked chicken, 1 cup frozen peas, 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (reserve 1/2 cup for topping), 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Mix until everything is well combined for your delicious Easy Chicken Penne Casserole Recipe.
05 -
If not using an oven-safe skillet, transfer the mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese over the top. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and the cheese is melted and lightly golden. This step brings the Easy Chicken Penne Casserole Recipe to perfection.
06 -
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with 2 tbsp fresh chopped parsley. This allows the sauce to set, making for easier and more enjoyable serving.
# Notes:
01 -
Feel free to swap penne for other short pasta shapes like rotini or elbow macaroni. You can also use cooked turkey instead of chicken.
02 -
Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance (without baking), cover, and refrigerate. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
03 -
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven.
04 -
For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce, or a dash of hot sauce before baking.
# 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: 568 kcal
Total Fat: 24 g
Total Carbohydrate: 53 g
Protein: 34 g