Comforting Chicken Pasta Casserole: A Family Dinner Favorite

Ultimate Creamy Chicken Pasta Casserole

This hearty chicken pasta casserole is the ultimate comfort food that combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and colorful vegetables in a creamy sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you need to feed a hungry family, this one-dish wonder delivers both nutrition and incredible flavor in every bite.

Why This Chicken Pasta Casserole Will Become Your Go-To Dinner

There’s something magical about the combination of tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and vegetables all baked together in a creamy sauce. This chicken pasta casserole has several things going for it:

• One-dish wonder: Everything cooks together for easy cleanup
• Make-ahead friendly: Prepare in advance and bake when needed
• Customizable: Works with whatever vegetables you have on hand
• Family-approved: Even picky eaters love this comforting dish
• Budget-friendly: Stretches protein with pasta and vegetables

Ingredients You’ll Need for This Chicken Pasta Casserole

• 2 cups fusilli pasta
• 2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn, green beans)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup milk
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Large pot for cooking pasta
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

How to Make the Perfect Chicken Pasta Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
2. Cook the fusilli pasta in salted water until just al dente (about 2 minutes less than package directions). Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, mixed vegetables, onion, and garlic.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the condensed soup, sour cream, milk, 1 cup of shredded cheese, thyme, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
5. Add the pasta to the chicken and vegetable mixture, then pour in the creamy sauce. Gently fold everything together until evenly coated.
6. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
7. In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese over the casserole, followed by the buttered breadcrumbs.
8. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
9. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Tips for the Best Chicken Pasta Casserole

• Don’t overcook the pasta – Cook it 2 minutes less than the package directions as it will continue to cook in the oven.
• Rotisserie chicken works great – Save time by using a store-bought rotisserie chicken for this recipe.
• Fresh or frozen vegetables – Either work well. If using frozen, no need to thaw first.
• Make it ahead – Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready. You may need to add 10-15 minutes to the baking time if coming straight from the refrigerator.
• Cheese variations – Try using a mixture of cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Gruyère for different flavor profiles.

Variation Ideas

• Spicy version: Add diced jalapeños and substitute pepper jack cheese
• Italian twist: Use Italian seasoning, sun-dried tomatoes, and mozzarella
• Greek-inspired: Include feta cheese, olives, and a sprinkle of oregano
• Tex-Mex style: Add black beans, corn, taco seasoning, and top with crushed tortilla chips

Storing and Reheating Your Chicken Pasta Casserole

This chicken pasta casserole is perfect for meal prep and leftovers taste amazing! Here’s how to store and reheat it:

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze individual portions or the entire casserole (without breadcrumb topping) for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. For larger amounts, reheat covered in a 350°F oven until heated through (about 20-30 minutes).

What to Serve with Chicken Pasta Casserole

While this casserole is a complete meal on its own, here are some delicious sides to round out your dinner:

• Simple green salad with vinaigrette
• Garlic bread or dinner rolls
• Steamed broccoli or asparagus
• Roasted Brussels sprouts
• Fresh fruit salad

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Pasta Casserole

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Penne, rotini, farfalle (bow-tie), or medium shells all work well in this casserole. Just be sure to cook them al dente.

How can I make this healthier?

Use whole wheat pasta, low-fat dairy products, and add extra vegetables. You could also substitute Greek yogurt for some or all of the sour cream.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Use dairy-free substitutes for the milk, sour cream, and cheese. There are many excellent plant-based alternatives available.

What if I don’t have cooked chicken on hand?

You can quickly cook 1-1.5 pounds of chicken breasts or thighs by poaching, grilling, or baking. Season with salt and pepper, cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, then dice or shred.

Can I use canned vegetables?

While fresh or frozen vegetables provide better texture, canned vegetables can work in a pinch. Be sure to drain and rinse them well first.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for comfort food on a chilly evening, this chicken pasta casserole delivers on all fronts. With its creamy texture, hearty ingredients, and incredible flavor, it’s sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation!

Recipe inspired by Allrecipes