The Ultimate Easy Cheesy Chicken Casserole Recipe

There’s something truly magical about a warm, cheesy casserole that fills your kitchen with comforting aromas and makes everyone gather around the table with big smiles. This Cheesy Chicken Casserole is exactly that kind of dish — creamy, loaded with tender chicken and pasta, and topped with a golden, bubbly cheese crust that’s pure comfort in every bite. Whether you’re juggling a busy weeknight or hosting a casual family dinner, this one-dish wonder will quickly become your go-to meal.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Chicken Casserole

This casserole is an absolute lifesaver because it’s so easy to throw together, and the cleanup is minimal—bonus points if you’re short on time or just not in the mood to wash a ton of dishes. It’s rich and creamy, with just the right amount of cheese meltiness to satisfy those comfort food cravings. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite veggies, proteins, or seasonings. Kids love it, adults love it, and leftovers? They taste just as good the next day. You’ll wonder why you ever ordered takeout!

Ingredients

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Getting your ingredients together is a breeze. Here’s what you’ll need to make this creamy, cheesy, chicken-packed casserole:

• 3 cups uncooked medium pasta shells (penne or rotini work great too)
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 onion, finely diced
• ⅓ cup diced red bell pepper (adds a nice pop of color and sweetness)
• ½ teaspoon seasoned salt
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (feel free to adjust for your heat preference)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (you can swap for cream of mushroom or celery if you prefer)
• 1⅓ cups milk (whole milk gives a richer sauce, but 2% works just fine)
• 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
• ⅓ cup shredded Parmesan cheese (for that lovely nutty depth)
• 1 (4 oz) can mild green chiles (adds a subtle kick without overpowering)
• 3 cups cooked, chopped chicken (rotisserie chicken works wonders here!)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s nice and hot by the time your casserole is ready to go in.

2. Cook the pasta until al dente according to the package directions—this means it should still have a little bite to it so it doesn’t get mushy during baking. Drain well and set aside.

3. Sauté the veggies. In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and red bell pepper, cooking until they’re soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Stir in the seasoned salt and chili powder to infuse the veggies with flavor.

4. Mix the creamy base. In a large bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, milk, 2 cups of the cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and the canned green chiles. Then fold in your sautéed veggies.

5. Combine everything. Add the cooked pasta and chopped chicken to the creamy mixture, stirring gently to coat every bite.

6. Transfer to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the mixture evenly, then sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese on top for that irresistible golden crust.

7. Bake for 30–35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is bubbly and starting to turn golden brown. Let the casserole rest a few minutes before digging in — it helps the sauce thicken up so it’s easier to serve.

Tips and Tricks for the Best Casserole

• Don’t overcook the pasta! Cooking it al dente is key to avoiding a mushy casserole.
• Use leftover or rotisserie chicken to save time without sacrificing flavor.
• If you want extra veggies, steamed broccoli, peas, or spinach work beautifully folded right into the mix.
• For a twist, swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a milder, creamier melt.
• To add a little heat, toss in some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the base.
• Feeling fancy? Top the casserole with crushed buttery crackers or panko breadcrumbs before baking for a crunchy finish.

Serving Suggestions

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This Cheesy Chicken Casserole is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but pairing it with a few simple sides can round things out perfectly. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness nicely. Steamed or roasted veggies like asparagus or green beans add freshness and crunch. And if you’re feeling indulgent, a slice of crusty garlic bread is always a hit to soak up any leftover sauce on the plate.

Storage and Reheating

Got leftovers? Lucky you! This casserole stores beautifully. Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat again, reheat single servings in the microwave, or pop the whole dish back into a 350°F oven covered with foil until warmed through—adding a splash of milk can keep it from drying out.

If you want to save it for later, freeze the casserole after baking and cooling completely. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. This makes it a fantastic meal prep option or freezer-friendly dinner rescue.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, keep it covered in the fridge, and bake it fresh when you’re ready.

What pasta works best?
Medium shells are classic here, but penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni all hold up well without turning mushy.

Is there a dairy-free option?
Yes! Swap the cheeses for your favorite dairy-free alternatives and use a dairy-free cream soup and milk. The texture may change slightly, but it still works well.

Can I add different veggies?
Definitely! Broccoli, peas, mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach all make wonderful additions.

How do I avoid drying out the casserole when reheating?
Cover the casserole with foil and add a splash of milk or broth before reheating in the oven to keep it moist.

Why This Recipe Will Be Your New Favorite

This Cheesy Chicken Casserole ticks all the boxes: it’s easy, comforting, packed with flavor, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just feeding your family, it’s a surefire way to bring smiles to the table. The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, melty cheese, and pasta creates that warm, satisfying feeling we all crave after a long day.

Once you try it, you’ll find yourself making it again and again, tweaking it with your favorite add-ins or seasoning changes. So grab your skillet and casserole dish—this recipe is about to become a staple in your kitchen. You’ll love how simple it is to make and how much joy it brings with every cheesy, delicious bite!