Golden Baked Cheesy Chicken Penne Casserole

Created on October 6th, 2026 at 03:43 am

Introduction: Baked Cheesy Chicken Penne Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Baked Cheesy Chicken Penne Casserole is an ultimate comfort food that combines simple ingredients with bold flavors. The creamy chicken penne base, topped with a golden-brown layer of melted mozzarella cheese, creates a heavenly dish that warms the soul. Whether you’re a busy parent or a culinary novice, this recipe is designed to be easy, satisfying, and absolutely delicious.

Perfect for Family Dinners

This casserole is an easy family meal that brings everyone to the table with its tantalizing aroma and rich taste. It’s the ideal choice for those hectic weeknights when you need a reliable dish that doesn’t compromise on taste or quality. The Italian-American pasta inspiration makes it a comforting dish that feels like a hug in every bite.

Ingredients

Essential Ingredients

To make this scrumptious Baked Cheesy Chicken Penne Casserole, you’ll need the following essential ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in building the creamy, cheesy, and savory profile of this dish:

• 2 cups penne pasta
• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, cubed
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Add-ins

For those looking to customize this casserole, consider these optional add-ins that can enhance the flavors and textures:

• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1/2 cup baby spinach, roughly chopped
• 1/4 cup sliced black olives

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Chicken

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken breast, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

Cooking the Pasta

While the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Assembling the Casserole

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta, chicken, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and minced garlic. Mix well to combine. Spread the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Pro Tips

Creating the perfect Baked Cheesy Chicken Penne Casserole is all about attention to detail. Here are some pro tips to ensure your casserole is a hit:

• Achieving the Perfect Cheese Melt: Use freshly grated mozzarella for the best melt and texture.
• Make-Ahead Tips: Assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
• Balance Flavors: Adjust seasoning levels to taste, adding more garlic or Italian seasoning if desired.
• Enhance with Veggies: Adding vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes can boost nutrition and flavor.

For more tips on achieving a perfect cheese melt, check out our guide on Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Pasta.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing with Side Dishes

This casserole is hearty enough to stand on its own, but pairing it with a fresh green salad or garlic bread can elevate your dining experience. Try serving it alongside our Baked Spinach Ricotta Pasta Casserole for a delightful Italian feast.

Wine and Beverage Pairings

Complement this dish with a crisp white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc or a light red such as Pinot Noir. For non-alcoholic options, a sparkling lemonade or Italian soda offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.

Nutritional Information

Calorie Count and Nutrients

Each serving of this Baked Cheesy Chicken Penne Casserole provides a balanced nutritional profile with approximately 450 calories. It includes 22g of protein, 35g of carbohydrates, and 24g of fat, making it a wholesome meal option.

Golden Baked Cheesy Chicken Penne Casserole

Zac

A creamy and cheesy casserole that combines chicken and penne pasta for a comforting family meal. Perfect for any weeknight dinner.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine Italian American

Servings 8 portions

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

• 1 9×13-inch baking dish greased
• 1 Large skillet
• 1 Large pot

Ingredients

  

Pasta and Chicken

• 2 cups penne pasta
• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast cubed

Sauce and Cheese

• 2 cups mozzarella cheese shredded
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

 

Preparation

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Set aside.
• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
• In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, chicken, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and minced garlic. Mix well. Spread into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with mozzarella cheese.
• Preheat oven to 375°F. Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes, until cheese is melted and golden brown.

Serving

• Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Notes

Pro Tips: Use freshly grated mozzarella for the best melt. Consider adding veggies like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
Ingredient Substitutions: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version. Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.
How to Serve: Pair with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Storage & Freshness: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
Make-Ahead Tips: Assemble the casserole and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Keyword baked cheesy chicken penne casserole, creamy chicken penne, easy family meal

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