Easy Chicken Penne Casserole: Quick Family Dinner (Print Version)
This easy Chicken Penne Casserole is a comforting, cheesy, and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights. Simple ingredients, minimal prep, maximum flavor.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 30 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
# Ingredients:
→ Hearty Foundation
01 -
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
02 -
12 oz penne pasta
→ Creamy Comfort Sauce
03 -
2 tbsp unsalted butter
04 -
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
05 -
2 cups whole milk
06 -
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
07 -
4 oz cream cheese, softened
→ Flavorful Add-ins & Topping
08 -
1/2 yellow onion, diced
09 -
2 cloves garlic, minced
10 -
1 cup frozen peas
11 -
1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
12 -
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
13 -
1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
14 -
1/2 tsp black pepper
15 -
1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs
16 -
Salt to taste
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Cook 12 oz penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside. This initial prep sets the stage for your Easy Chicken Penne Casserole Recipe.
02 -
Dice 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast. In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, cook the chicken over medium-high heat until browned. Add 1/2 yellow onion, diced, and 2 cloves garlic, minced; cook until softened. Season with 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and salt to taste.
03 -
Melt 2 tbsp unsalted butter in the same skillet. Stir in 2 tbsp all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in 2 cups whole milk and 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then stir in 4 oz softened cream cheese until the sauce is smooth.
04 -
Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (reserving 1/2 cup for topping) and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese until melted and fully incorporated. Fold in 1 cup frozen peas and the cooked penne pasta. This forms the delicious base for your Easy Chicken Penne Casserole Recipe.
05 -
Return the cooked chicken and onion mixture to the skillet with the pasta and sauce. Mix everything well to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the Easy Chicken Penne Casserole Recipe.
06 -
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown. For the best Easy Chicken Penne Casserole Recipe, let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set.
# Notes:
01 -
Feel free to substitute chicken breast with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for extra flavor and moisture. You can also swap peas for broccoli florets or spinach.
02 -
Leftovers of this casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven.
03 -
Serve this hearty casserole with a simple side salad or some crusty garlic bread to complete your meal.
04 -
For an extra crispy topping, you can broil the casserole for the last 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large pot
02 -
Large skillet
03 -
9x13 inch baking dish
04 -
Whisk
05 -
Measuring cups and spoons
06 -
Cutting board
07 -
Knife
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 628 kcal
Total Fat: 26 g
Total Carbohydrate: 57 g
Protein: 40 g