This dish is warm, hearty, and full of comforting flavor, with tender chicken and penne pasta baked together in a creamy, savory sauce. As it cooks, the pasta soaks up all the rich flavors, while the chicken stays juicy and satisfying in every bite.
A golden, slightly crisp top adds the perfect contrast to the soft, cheesy layers underneath. It’s the kind of cozy, all in one meal that feels simple, filling, and perfect for sharing around the table.
On hectic days, a warm chicken casserole is the kind of comfort food that really satisfies. It comes together quickly with just about 10 minutes of prep, yet still delivers a rich, creamy sauce that coats every bite of pasta.
Each spoonful is packed with tender chicken and bits of broccoli, making it both hearty and balanced. And of course, the cheesy goodness throughout is what brings everything together in the most delicious way.
* What Makes This Recipe Chicken Penne Casserole :
Hearty and Family , Friendly
This Chicken Penne Casserole is a comforting meal that’s perfect for feeding the whole family. Tender chicken, perfectly cooked penne, and a creamy, cheesy sauce come together in a satisfying dish that everyone will love.
Easy to Make Ahead
This casserole is ideal for meal prep because it can be assembled in advance and baked when you’re ready to serve. It’s a convenient option for busy weeknights, potlucks, or family gatherings.
Simple Ingredients, Big Results
Made with everyday pantry staples and easy to find ingredients, this recipe delivers impressive flavor without requiring complicated techniques. It’s a reliable, foolproof casserole that’s perfect for both beginner and experienced home cooks.
Loaded with Creamy, Cheesy Flavor
Every bite is filled with a rich, creamy sauce and plenty of melted cheese that coats the pasta and chicken beautifully. The golden, bubbly topping adds the perfect finishing touch with a deliciously comforting texture.
Ingredients :
- Penne pasta is the base of the dish and holds the creamy sauce perfectly.
- Broccoli I prefer fresh .
- Cooked chicken adds protein and makes the casserole hearty and filling.
- Cream of chicken soup or cream sauce creates a rich, creamy coating for the pasta.
- Milk or cream helps loosen the sauce and make it smooth and creamy.
- Cheddar cheese adds a melty, cheesy flavor throughout the casserole.
- Mozzarella cheese gives a gooey, stretchy topping when baked.
- Garlic adds savory depth and enhances the overall flavor.
- Onion brings a mild sweetness and extra aroma.
- Butter or olive oil helps cook the base ingredients and adds richness.
- Salt & black pepper balance and enhance all the flavors.
Kitchen Equipment Needed for Chicken Penne Casserole
- Large pot
- Colander or strainer
- Frying pan or skillet
- Baking dish
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven
How to Make Chicken Penne Casserole :
Cook the penne pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until it is just tender. Drain it and set aside and in a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until soft and slightly golden then add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until it smells fragrant.
Stir in the cooked chicken and mix well so it absorbs the onion and garlic flavor next up pour in the tomato sauce and add oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together and let it simmer for a few minutes besides if you want a creamy casserole, add the heavy cream and stir until smooth.
In a large baking dish, combine the cooked pasta and chicken sauce mixture. Stir everything so the pasta is well coated and sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly on top.
Bake for 20–25 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top together with let it cool for a few minutes before serving so it sets nicely soon after garnish with fresh parsley if you like and serve warm.
Chicken Penne Casserole Tips for the Best Results :
– Don’t overbake or the pasta may become dry.
– Add a little extra sauce if you like it extra creamy and soft.
– You can prepare it ahead of time and bake it later.
– Leftovers taste even better the next day after flavors mix.
– Always cover tightly when storing to keep it fresh and moist.
What to Eat with Chicken Penne Casserole
Chicken Penne Casserole is creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender chicken and pasta, making it the ultimate comfort food for busy weeknights or family gatherings. I love serving it with warm Garlic Cheese Drop Biscuits to soak up every bit of the creamy sauce and complete the meal.
For a fresh contrast, it pairs beautifully with Cucumber Radish Salad or crisp Watermelon Feta Mint Skewers to balance the richness of the casserole. To finish the meal on a sweet note, I sometimes bring out Lemon Blueberry Cupcakes for dessert.
More Easy Chicken Recipes
FAQ’S : for Chicken Penne Casserole
Can I make Chicken Penne Casserole without cream?
Yes, just use extra tomato sauce instead.
Why is my casserole dry?
It may need more sauce or a shorter baking time.
Can I prepare Chicken Penne Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it and bake it later.
How do I know Chicken Penne Casserole is done baking?
The cheese will be melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on top.
SAVE THIS POST TO YOUR FAVORITE PINTEREST BOARD !
Chicken Penne Casserole
Course: Comfort FoodCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy4
servings15
minutes25
minutes420
kcal40
minutesChicken Penne Casserole is a warm and cheesy baked pasta dish made with tender chicken, penne pasta, and rich tomato or creamy sauce. It’s easy to prepare, comforting, and perfect for a family style dinner.
Ingredients
300g penne pasta
2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic
1 small onion
1 1/2 cups tomato sauce or pasta sauce
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
Directions
- Cook the penne pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until it is just tender. Drain it and set aside and in a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until soft and slightly golden then add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until it smells fragrant.
- Stir in the cooked chicken and mix well so it absorbs the onion and garlic flavor next up pour in the tomato sauce and add oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together and let it simmer for a few minutes besides if you want a creamy casserole, add the heavy cream and stir until smooth.
- In a large baking dish, combine the cooked pasta and chicken sauce mixture. Stir everything so the pasta is well coated and sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly on top.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top together with let it cool for a few minutes before serving so it sets nicely soon after garnish with fresh parsley if you like and serve warm.
Notes
- You can use tomato sauce, creamy sauce, or mix both for a richer taste.
- Mix pasta and sauce well so every piece is coated before baking.
- Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
- Use a deep baking dish so nothing spills while cooking.
Thanks for stopping by!
I really hope you make this Chicken Penne Casserole. If you do, tag me in a photo on Facebook. I love to see you enjoying my recipes.
PIN IT FOR LATER!
