Cheesy Chicken Casserole

Cheesy Chicken Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, hearty, and loaded with melted cheese, tender chicken, and pasta. It’s the perfect all-in-one dinner option for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings, delivering both ease and rich flavor in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A one-dish wonder—easy to prepare and even easier to clean up.
• Comforting and indulgent with its creamy, cheesy base.
• Great for meal prep and leftovers.
• Kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing.
• Easily customizable with different proteins, vegetables, or seasonings.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 3 cups uncooked medium pasta shells
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 onion, finely diced
• ⅓ cup diced red bell pepper
• ½ teaspoon seasoned salt
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1⅓ cups milk
• 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
• ⅓ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 1 (4 oz) can mild green chiles
• 3 cups cooked, chopped chicken

Directions

this recipe

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and red bell pepper; sauté until soft. Stir in seasoned salt and chili powder.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the soup, milk, 2 cups of cheddar cheese, Parmesan, green chiles, and sautéed veggies.
5. Stir in the cooked pasta and chopped chicken until evenly coated.
6. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese.
7. Bake for 30–35 minutes, until bubbly and the cheese on top is golden.
8. Let sit for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

• Substitute turkey or ham for the chicken.
• Add cooked veggies like broccoli, peas, or spinach.
• Use Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a spicy cheese blend.
• Make it gluten-free with GF pasta and soup.
• Spice it up with jalapeños or hot sauce.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze for up to 3 months in a well-sealed container.
• Reheat individual portions in the microwave or bake covered at 350°F until heated through.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it up to 24 hours in advance and store in the fridge until ready to bake.

What type of pasta works best?

Medium shells, penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni all hold up well in this dish.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely, it’s a great time-saver and adds extra flavor.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, it freezes very well. Let it cool completely, then wrap and freeze.

How do I reheat leftovers?

Microwave individual servings or bake at 350°F until warmed through.

Is there a dairy-free version?

You can use dairy-free cheese and cream alternatives, though flavor may vary.

What vegetables go well in this casserole?

Broccoli, peas, mushrooms, or zucchini are all great options.

Can I use a different soup?

Cream of mushroom or cream of celery can work well as substitutes.

How do I keep it from drying out?

Add a splash of milk when reheating and make sure it’s covered if baking.

What should I serve with this casserole?

A simple salad, steamed veggies, or crusty bread pairs perfectly.

Conclusion

Cheesy Chicken Casserole is a dependable, satisfying meal that brings people together around the dinner table. With its creamy texture, cheesy topping, and versatile ingredients, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or planning ahead, this dish delivers comfort and flavor every time.

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