Craving comfort food that’s easy, satisfying, and a guaranteed family favorite? This Cheesy Chicken Pasta Bake checks every box. It’s warm, creamy, and loaded with tender chicken, pasta, and melted cheese—all baked together into one delicious casserole.
Ideal for weeknight dinners or freezer-friendly meal prep, this dish is simple to make and delivers rich flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
- 10 ounces pasta (penne or rotini work best)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: chopped parsley or green onion, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Boil the pasta in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the sauce: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly, until thickened. Stir in sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add cheese: Stir in half of the mozzarella and cheddar until melted and smooth.
- Combine and assemble: In a large bowl, combine the pasta, chicken, and cheese sauce. Mix well. Pour into a greased baking dish.
- Top and bake: Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.
- Serve: Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with herbs if desired.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-dish meal that feeds a crowd
- Creamy, cheesy, and full of comforting flavors
- Great for using leftover chicken or rotisserie
- Easily adaptable with vegetables or spices
Tips & Variations
- Add cooked broccoli, spinach, or peas for extra nutrition
- Use cream cheese instead of sour cream for a richer texture
- Try adding bacon or sautéed mushrooms for more flavor
- Make ahead and freeze for up to one month