Chicken Penne Casserole isn’t just a dish—it’s a warm embrace from the kitchen, evoking memories of cozy family gatherings where laughter fills the air and cherished moments are made. In the heart of the Midwest, this casserole is a beloved staple, blending simple ingredients into a comforting meal that feels like home. Passed down through generations, this recipe holds a special place in family cookbooks, especially as the crisp autumn air invites us to gather around the table for something hearty and heartwarming.
Imagine diving into tender chunks of chicken and al dente penne pasta, all enveloped in a creamy sauce and topped with a golden, cheese-laden crust. It’s the kind of meal that pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad and some steamed vegetables. And, of course, a slice of homemade apple pie would be the ideal finish, honoring those Midwestern roots and rounding out a truly comforting meal.
Homestyle Chicken Penne Casserole
Servings: 6 generous portions
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Directions
Prepare Your Workspace
Preheat the Oven: Begin by setting your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that it’s hot and ready to perfectly cook the casserole.
Grease the Baking Dish: Take a 9×13 inch baking dish and grease it with butter. This prevents the casserole from sticking and helps achieve a golden, crisp top.
Cook the Pasta
Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente—firm to the bite. Remember, the pasta will continue to cook in the oven, so keep it slightly underdone.
Drain the Pasta: Once cooked, drain the pasta and return it to the pot.
Mix the Ingredients
Combine the Ingredients: In the same pot with the drained pasta, add the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried parsley. Stir until all ingredients are well combined.
Season: Add salt and pepper to taste. This step is crucial for bringing out the flavors in the casserole.
Layer the Casserole
First Layer: Pour half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
Add Cheese: Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the pasta mixture.
Second Layer: Add the remaining pasta mixture on top of the cheese.
Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the rest of the cheddar cheese over the top. This creates a delicious, cheesy layer that melts and bubbles during baking.
Add the Topping
Prepare the Breadcrumbs: In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter. This combination will create a crispy, golden topping for the casserole.
Sprinkle Over the Casserole: Evenly distribute the breadcrumb mixture over the top layer of cheese.
Bake
Bake the Casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The casserole is done when it is bubbling around the edges and the top is a lovely golden brown.
Rest and Serve
Let It Sit: After baking, allow the casserole to sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps the dish set and makes it easier to cut into portions.
Variations & Tips
- Add Veggies: To boost the nutritional value and add color, stir in vegetables like mushrooms, peas, or spinach. These can be added during the mixing stage.
- Spice It Up: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mix.
- Use Leftovers: This recipe is perfect for utilizing leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you have on hand, making it a quick and convenient meal option.
- Gluten-Free Option: If you’re following a gluten-free diet, simply substitute gluten-free penne pasta. The rest of the ingredients remain the same.
- Freezing Instructions: To prepare ahead, assemble the casserole, cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and freeze. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
Why This Recipe is Appealing
Homestyle Chicken Penne Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. The creamy, cheesy goodness of this dish is a crowd-pleaser, making it perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even a cozy night in. The combination of tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a golden, crispy topping creates a comforting dish that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—easy to customize with your favorite veggies, adjust to dietary needs, or even prep ahead for busy nights.
Every bite of this casserole brings a sense of nostalgia and satisfaction. It’s the kind of dish that evokes feelings of home and family, making it a delightful addition to any meal. Enjoy making and eating this casserole—it’s a true comfort food classic!