Easy Chicken Penne Casserole: Quick Weeknight Dinner (Print Version)
Chicken Penne Casserole is a comforting, family-friendly dish. Creamy pasta, tender chicken, and melted cheese baked to golden perfection for an easy weeknight meal.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 30 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
# Ingredients:
→ Hearty Foundation
01 -
12 oz penne pasta, uncooked
02 -
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
→ Velvety Sauce Blend
03 -
2 tbsp unsalted butter
04 -
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
05 -
2 cups chicken broth
06 -
1 cup whole milk
07 -
4 oz cream cheese, softened and cut into cubes
→ Aromatic & Garden Boosters
08 -
1/2 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
09 -
2 cloves garlic, minced
10 -
1 cup frozen peas
11 -
1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
12 -
1 tsp salt, or to taste
13 -
1/2 tsp black pepper, or to taste
→ Golden Cheesy Topping
14 -
1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
15 -
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook 12 oz penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside. This initial step sets the stage for your delicious Easy Chicken Penne Casserole.
02 -
In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt 2 tbsp unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 1/2 medium yellow onion, finely chopped, and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in 2 cloves garlic, minced, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
03 -
Sprinkle 2 tbsp all-purpose flour over the onion and garlic, stirring for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in 2 cups chicken broth and 1 cup whole milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, then add 4 oz cream cheese, softened and cut into cubes, stirring until melted and the sauce is thick and creamy.
04 -
Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the cooked 12 oz penne pasta, 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded, 1 cup frozen peas, 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper into the creamy sauce. Ensure all ingredients are well combined for your Easy Chicken Penne Casserole.
05 -
Transfer the entire mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish. In a small bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs. Sprinkle this topping evenly over the casserole.
06 -
Bake the Easy Chicken Penne Casserole for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly around the edges and the topping is golden brown and crispy.
07 -
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set, making for a perfect Easy Chicken Penne Casserole experience.
# Notes:
01 -
For extra flavor, consider using rotisserie chicken for the 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded. It adds a wonderful depth and saves prep time!
02 -
Feel free to swap the frozen peas for other vegetables like corn, diced carrots, or chopped spinach. Adjust quantities to your preference.
03 -
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven.
04 -
Serve this hearty casserole with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to complete the meal.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large pot
02 -
Large skillet
03 -
9x13 inch baking dish
04 -
Whisk
05 -
Measuring cups and spoons
06 -
Knife
07 -
Cutting board
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 575 kcal
Total Fat: 24 g
Total Carbohydrate: 55 g
Protein: 34 g