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baked cheesy chicken penne casserole recipe

Golden Baked Cheesy Chicken Penne Casserole

Zac, the creator of Eat Every Slice, smiling in a kitchen while wearing an apron, specializing in Italian-American recipes.Zac
A creamy and cheesy casserole that combines chicken and penne pasta for a comforting family meal. Perfect for any weeknight dinner.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian American
Servings 8 portions
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 9x13-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 9x13-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