Cheesy Chicken Casserole
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
30 mins
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Cook Time
30 mins
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Total Time
1 hr
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Servings
6 servings
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Calories
649 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
American
Cheesy Chicken Casserole
Description
The Cheesy Chicken Casserole features medium pasta shells enveloped in a creamy sauce made from condensed cream of chicken soup, milk, and a generous mix of sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheeses. The inclusion of green chiles adds a subtle mild heat that complements the savory chicken and sautéed red bell pepper and onion. Baking binds the flavors and melts the cheese into a rich topping with a golden finish.
Texture-wise, the dish balances tender pasta cooked al dente with soft cooked chicken and vegetables, resulting in a cohesive casserole that holds together well for serving. The seasoning with chili powder and seasoned salt enhances the mild heat and adds a slight depth to the flavor profile. This casserole is suitable for a family meal or casual dinner.
The recipe is adaptable; you can substitute the chicken with ham or turkey, and extra vegetables can be added if pre-cooked to maintain texture. The layering of ingredients and the baking time ensure thorough heating and melding of flavors.
For a topping variation, a mixture of panko bread crumbs with melted butter and seasonings can be sprinkled on before baking for added crunch. Cooking the pasta just until firm ensures it won't become mushy after baking, preserving the desired consistency.
Ingredients
- 3 cups medium pasta shells uncooked
- 3 tablespoons butter
- ⅓ cup red bell pepper diced
- 1 onion finely diced
- ½ teaspoon seasoned salt
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 10.5 ounces cream of chicken soup 1 can, condensed
- 1 ⅓ cups milk
- 3 cups cheddar cheese divided, shredded sharp
- ⅓ cup Parmesan Cheese shredded
- 4 ounces green chiles canned, mild
- 3 cups chicken cooked, chopped
Instructions
- Heat oven to 375°F.
- Cook shells al dente according to package directions.
- Cook onion and red bell pepper in butter until tender, about 5 minutes. Stir in salt and chili powder.
- In a large bowl combine soup, onion mixture, milk and 2 cups cheddar cheese and parmesan cheese. Mix well. Stir in chicken, pasta and green chiles.
- Spread into a 9x13 casserole dish. Top with remaining cheese.
- Bake 30-35 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Notes
- You can substitute the chicken with ham or turkey for variation.
- Any medium pasta works, but cook it so it remains slightly firm to avoid overcooking during baking.
- If adding extra vegetables, pre-cook them before incorporating into the casserole.
- For a crispy topping, mix 3 tablespoons panko crumbs with 1 tablespoon melted butter and seasonings, then sprinkle over before baking.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 6servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 649 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 649 | 32% |
| Carbohydrates | 32g | 11% |
| Protein | 40g | 80% |
| Fat | 39g | 60% |
| Saturated Fat | 20g | 100% |
| Cholesterol | 138mg | 46% |
| Sodium | 1197mg | 50% |
| Potassium | 445mg | 9% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 5g | 10% |
| Vitamin A | 1420IU | 28% |
| Vitamin C | 18.4mg | 20% |
| Calcium | 573mg | 57% |
| Iron | 2.6mg | 14% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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