Creamy Chicken Casserole with a Cheesy Twist
This Creamy Chicken Casserole is packed with tender chicken, a rich, creamy sauce made from sour cream and milk, and plenty of cheese for a comforting dish everyone will love! With its irresistible texture and flavors, it’s the perfect go-to recipe for a hearty meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces (check out our guide: How to Cook Shredded Chicken)
- 4 cups cooked pasta (about 2 cups uncooked) – penne, cavatappi, or rigatoni works great
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup milk
- 3 cups grated cheese (cheddar, Colby jack, Swiss, or a combination), with 1/2 cup set aside for topping
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until soft and fragrant. Stir in the flour, cooking for 1 minute until combined.
- Make it Creamy: Gradually whisk in the milk and sour cream, stirring until the sauce thickens. Add 2 1/2 cups of grated cheese and continue to stir until melted and smooth.
- Mix it All Together: Add the cooked chicken, pasta, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to the sauce. Toss everything until well coated.
- Bake to Perfection: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the reserved 1/2 cup of cheese on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 20-30 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden.
Serve this creamy, cheesy chicken casserole hot for the ultimate comfort meal!