If you are looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dinner that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta, this Cheesy Chicken Macaroni Casserole Recipe is an absolute winner. Imagine the rich blend of gooey cheddar and mozzarella melting into every bite of chicken and elbow macaroni, all topped with a delightfully crispy breadcrumb crust. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also gratifyingly delicious, making it a perfect go-to for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, pantry-friendly ingredients is the key to making this Cheesy Chicken Macaroni Casserole Recipe a trusty favorite. Each item plays an important role, from the creamy texture brought by the soup and sour cream, to the savory flavor punch provided by the garlic and onion powders.
- Elbow macaroni (2 cups): The classic pasta shape that holds sauce beautifully and creates the perfect base.
- Cooked chicken, shredded (2 cups): Adds hearty protein while keeping the casserole moist and meaty.
- Cheddar cheese, shredded (1 cup): Adds sharp flavor and a rich, melty texture.
- Mozzarella cheese, shredded (1 cup): Brings creaminess and stretchiness to every bite.
- Cream of chicken soup (1 can, 10.5 oz): Acts as a creamy binder to unify all the flavors effortlessly.
- Milk (1 cup): Helps create a smooth, luscious sauce that coats the pasta.
- Sour cream (1/2 cup): Adds tangy richness that balances the cheeses perfectly.
- Frozen peas (1/2 cup, optional): Provides a subtle pop of color and a sweet, fresh contrast.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Imparts a warm, savory depth.
- Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavor profile without overpowering.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings to brighten and round out the dish.
- Breadcrumbs (1/2 cup): Creates the irresistible crunchy topping that contrasts the creamy interior.
- Butter, melted (2 tablespoons): Binds the breadcrumbs and adds a golden richness to the crust.
How to Make Cheesy Chicken Macaroni Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the casserole cooks evenly and the topping gets that perfect golden crunch.
Step 2: Cook the Macaroni
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Draining it right away stops cooking, so your pasta stays firm and perfect in the casserole.
Step 3: Mix the Ingredients
In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, cream of chicken soup, milk, and sour cream. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, then fold everything together until evenly coated. If you’re adding peas, gently mix them in here for a fresh burst of color and slight sweetness.
Step 4: Transfer and Spread
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking, then pour the casserole mixture in. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly, ensuring every corner gets some of that cheesy, chicken-filled goodness.
Step 5: Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter with the breadcrumbs. This mixture will create that exquisite crust that balances the creamy casserole. Sprinkle it evenly over the top so every bite has a satisfying crunch.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly throughout and the topping is a perfect golden brown. The aroma filling your kitchen will be hard to resist.
How to Serve Cheesy Chicken Macaroni Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives adds a lovely burst of freshness and color on top of the casserole, brightening both the look and the flavor. For a little extra zing, a dash of smoked paprika or crushed red pepper flakes can provide a surprising twist.
Side Dishes
Keep it simple and refreshing with a crisp green salad or steamed seasonal vegetables to balance the richness of the casserole. Garlic bread or dinner rolls also make fantastic companions for soaking up every last bit of cheesy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this casserole in individual ramekins for personal portions at a dinner party, or layer it in a clear glass baking dish to show off the beautiful layers of cheesy chicken and pasta. For a fun twist, top each serving with a fried egg for brunch-style indulgence.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let the casserole cool completely before covering it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days while maintaining its creamy texture and wonderful flavors.
Freezing
This Cheesy Chicken Macaroni Casserole Recipe freezes wonderfully. Assemble it completely, cover tightly with foil and plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent drying out, removing it in the last 5 minutes if you want to refresh the topping’s crispiness. Alternatively, microwave individual portions until hot, but the oven method is best for preserving texture.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta in this casserole?
Yes! While elbow macaroni works perfectly, you can substitute with penne, rotini, or shells. Just be sure to cook them al dente to avoid mushiness during baking.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely. Replace the cooked chicken with extra vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or roasted bell peppers, and use vegetable cream soup instead of cream of chicken.
How do I make the casserole gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and swap the breadcrumbs for gluten-free versions or crushed nuts to keep the crunchy topping without gluten.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole the day before and refrigerate it unbaked. When ready, simply bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking from cold.
What is the best cheese combination for this recipe?
Cheddar and mozzarella are classic choices because cheddar adds sharpness while mozzarella gives gooey stretch and creaminess. Feel free to experiment with cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a bit of Parmesan for extra flavor depth.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting and satisfying about this Cheesy Chicken Macaroni Casserole Recipe that makes it a treasured staple in any home kitchen. Its perfect balance of cheesy meltiness, tender chicken, and a crunchy topping will have you coming back for seconds and sharing this gem with friends and family. I hope you enjoy making and savoring it as much as I do!
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Cheesy Chicken Macaroni Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cheesy Chicken Macaroni Casserole is a comforting, creamy baked dish loaded with tender shredded chicken, gooey cheddar and mozzarella cheese, and perfectly cooked elbow macaroni. Topped with buttery breadcrumbs for a crispy crust, it’s an easy family-friendly meal perfect for busy weeknights or hearty gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Cook Macaroni: Boil the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, shredded chicken, cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, cream of chicken soup, milk, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. If desired, fold in the frozen peas to add a pop of color and sweetness.
- Assemble Casserole: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and evenly spread the macaroni mixture into it.
- Prepare Topping: Mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter in a small bowl until well coated, then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole for a crunchy golden topping.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the mixture is bubbly and the breadcrumb topping turns golden brown.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can add herbs like thyme or parsley to the mixture.
- Frozen peas are optional but add color and subtle sweetness.
- Use low-fat dairy options to reduce fat content.
- This casserole can be made ahead and refrigerated before baking; just add an extra 5 minutes to the baking time if baking cold.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
