Delicious and Easy: Chicken Penne Casserole Recipe for Busy Weeknights
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our recipe for the Best Ever Chicken Penne Casserole. This hearty and flavorful dish combines tender chicken, al dente penne pasta, savory seasonings, and a creamy sauce that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 8 ounces penne pasta, cooked according to package instructions
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (10.75 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: bread crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs
Preparing the Chicken and Pasta:
Cook the chicken until it is fully cooked and tender. Shred or dice it into bite-sized pieces. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauteing the Onion, Garlic, and Bell Pepper:
In a skillet, sauté the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper until they are tender and fragrant. This step adds depth of flavor to the casserole.
Mixing the Sauce:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined and creamy.
Assembling the Casserole:
In a greased baking dish, layer half of the cooked penne pasta, followed by half of the cooked chicken, sautéed onion, garlic, and bell pepper, and half of the sauce mixture. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.
Baking the Casserole:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Adding Optional Toppings:
For an added crunch and flavor, you can sprinkle bread crumbs and grated Parmesan cheese on top of the casserole during the last 5 minutes of baking. Garnish with fresh herbs, such as chopped parsley or basil, for a vibrant touch.
Serving and Enjoying:
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Cut into portions and serve warm, savoring the creamy, cheesy, and comforting flavors of the Best Ever Chicken Penne Casserole.
Conclusion:
With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked penne pasta, the Best Ever Chicken Penne Casserole is sure to become a family favorite. This simple and delicious recipe is perfect for those busy days when you want a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, follow these easy steps, and get ready to enjoy a mouthwatering casserole that will impress everyone at the table. Bon appétit!
FAQ
Q: What is Chicken Penne Casserole?
A: Chicken Penne Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish made with cooked chicken, penne pasta, a creamy sauce, and various seasonings. It is typically baked in the oven until the flavors meld together and the cheese becomes melted and bubbly.
Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken for Chicken Penne Casserole?
A: Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken for Chicken Penne Casserole. Simply shred or dice the cooked chicken and incorporate it into the casserole during the assembly process.
Q: Can I use different pasta shapes instead of penne?
A: Absolutely! While penne pasta works well in this casserole, you can certainly use different pasta shapes, such as rotini, farfalle, or rigatoni. Choose a shape that you enjoy and that will hold the creamy sauce.
Q: Can I make Chicken Penne Casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare Chicken Penne Casserole ahead of time. Assemble the casserole as directed but do not bake it. Instead, cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove it from the refrigerator, let it come to room temperature, and then bake according to the recipe instructions.
Q: Can I freeze Chicken Penne Casserole?
A: Yes, Chicken Penne Casserole can be frozen for later use. After assembling the casserole, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Q: Can I customize the seasonings in Chicken Penne Casserole?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the seasonings in Chicken Penne Casserole to suit your taste preferences. You can add additional herbs, spices, or seasonings to enhance the flavor profile of the dish.
Q: What are some suggested variations of Chicken Penne Casserole?
A: You can customize Chicken Penne Casserole by incorporating various ingredients, such as diced vegetables (like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach), different cheeses (such as mozzarella or Gruyère), or adding a layer of marinara sauce for a twist.
Q: Can I make a vegetarian version of Penne Casserole?
A: Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of Penne Casserole by omitting the chicken and using vegetable broth or a vegetarian cream soup substitute. You can also add extra vegetables and protein alternatives like tofu or tempeh.
Q: How do I reheat Chicken Penne?
A: To reheat Chicken Penne , preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave until warm.
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese in Chicken Casserole?
A: Yes, you can use different types of cheese in Chicken Casserole. Cheddar cheese is commonly used, but you can experiment with other varieties like Monterey Jack, Swiss, or a blend of cheeses for a unique flavor combination.
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