Crazy Good Chicken Pasta Casserole Recipe

This Crazy Good Chicken Pasta Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Combining tender chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy soup, it’s a hearty dish that everyone will love.

With melted cheddar cheese on top and a hint of garlic, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your home. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, it’s the perfect way to satisfy those hungry appetites!

Crazy Good Chicken Pasta Casserole Recipe

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided

6 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled

2 cans of cream of chicken soup

1 16-ounce box of dried spiral pasta

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 large Roma tomato, chopped

Salt and pepper to taste

Sliced green onions for garnish

Instructions

In a skillet, cook the bacon until it’s crispy. Once done, crumble it and set it aside.

Cut the chicken breasts into small pieces and cook them in the same skillet, seasoning with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cook the spiral pasta according to the package instructions, then drain and place it back in the pot.

Add the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, chopped tomato, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese to the pasta. Mix until everything is combined.

Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch casserole dish. Top it with the crumbled bacon and the remaining cheddar cheese.

Bake for 20 minutes. Before serving, garnish with sliced green onions.

Enjoy your casserole!

Notes:

Chicken Options: You can use rotisserie chicken for a quicker prep time. Just shred it and add it to the mix.

Pasta Choices: While spiral pasta works great, you can substitute with penne, fusilli, or any other pasta shape you prefer.

Add Veggies: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli for extra nutrition and flavor.

Cheese Variations: Mix it up by using a blend of cheeses, such as mozzarella or Monterey Jack, for a different taste.

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.

Freezing: This casserole can be frozen before baking. Just assemble it in the dish, cover tightly, and freeze. When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.

Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, consider adding some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the mixture.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 6 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.

When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.

What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?

If you prefer a lighter option or need a substitute, you can use homemade white sauce (béchamel) or a can of cream of mushroom soup.

For a dairy-free option, look for dairy-free cream soups available in stores.

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure to cook them thoroughly before adding them to the casserole.

You might want to thaw them first for even cooking or increase the cooking time accordingly.

How can I make this dish healthier?

To make it healthier, consider using whole wheat pasta, reduced-fat cheese, and low-sodium soup.

You can also add more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to increase the nutritional value.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers!

Allow the casserole to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe dish.

It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

You can use a meat thermometer to check this.

The chicken should also be white and no longer pink in the center.

What type of pasta works best for this casserole?

While spiral pasta is great, you can use other shapes like penne, fusilli, or rotini.

Just make sure to cook the pasta until it’s al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.

Can I add other ingredients to the casserole?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.

You can also incorporate different cheeses or spices to suit your taste.

How long should I bake the casserole?

Bake the casserole for about 20 minutes at 400°F (200°C) or until it’s hot and bubbly.

If you want a crispy top, you can broil it for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end, but watch it closely to avoid burning.

Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Yes! To make it vegetarian, you can omit the chicken and bacon and add more vegetables, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.

You could also use a meat substitute or additional protein sources like beans or lentils.