Crazy Good Chicken Pasta Casserole

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Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor—this Crazy Good Chicken Pasta Casserole is the kind of comfort food that makes you want seconds (and maybe thirds). It brings together tender pasta, juicy chicken, and a luscious cheese sauce baked to golden perfection. The crispy edges, gooey cheese pulls, and herby topping make each bite feel like a warm hug on a plate.

Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight, a cozy Sunday dinner, or a potluck crowd, this baked chicken pasta delivers big-time on taste with very little fuss. It’s family-friendly, freezer-friendly, and incredibly satisfying. Just one whiff of this bubbling dish coming out of the oven, and you’ll know you’re in for something special.

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Ingredients for this Crazy Good Chicken Pasta Casserole

• 3 cups cooked rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works great)
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 ½ cups marinara or tomato sauce
• ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
• ¼ cup seasoned breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter (to mix with breadcrumbs)

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Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by boiling the pasta in a large pot of salted water according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside. While the pasta cooks, you can prepare the other ingredients to save time.

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Step 2: Mix the Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the marinara sauce, heavy cream, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Stir until smooth. This creates that rich, creamy tomato base that makes the casserole so comforting.

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Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Add the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and half of the mozzarella and parmesan cheeses into the sauce mixture. Stir until everything is well coated. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it out evenly.

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Step 4: Add Toppings

Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese over the top. For added texture, combine breadcrumbs with olive oil or melted butter, and sprinkle them over the cheese layer. This step gives the top a beautiful golden crunch once baked.

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Step 5: Bake It

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the casserole uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and the top is lightly golden. If you want a crispier top, broil it for an additional 2–3 minutes—just keep a close eye to avoid burning.

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Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top before serving. This dish is perfect with a crisp side salad or warm garlic bread.

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Storage Instructions

Got leftovers? No problem—this Crazy Good Chicken Pasta Casserole holds up beautifully for later enjoyment.

• Refrigerator: Store any cooled leftovers in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Want to save it for a busy night? Transfer the casserole into a freezer-safe dish, wrap it tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.
• Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave with a splash of milk or cream to bring back that creamy texture. For larger portions, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – based on 6 servings)

• Calories: 520 kcal
• Protein: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 26g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 760mg

Note: These are general estimates and can vary based on specific brands or ingredient adjustments.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What type of chicken works best for this casserole?

Shredded rotisserie chicken is ideal for convenience and flavor, but you can use grilled, baked, or poached chicken as well.

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Absolutely! Penne, rigatoni, or shells all work well—just choose a shape that holds sauce nicely.

Is this dish spicy?

It’s not inherently spicy, but you can add or omit the red pepper flakes based on your preference.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble everything ahead and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven (add a few extra minutes if it’s cold from the fridge).

How can I make this recipe healthier?

Use whole wheat pasta, reduced-fat cheese, and swap the heavy cream for Greek yogurt or low-fat milk.

What cheese alternatives work here?

Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of Italian cheeses can add a fun twist. Just be sure it melts well!

Can I add vegetables to this?

Definitely! Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers mix in beautifully and boost the nutrition.

What’s the best side dish for this casserole?

Try it with a light green salad, roasted veggies, or garlic bread to round out the meal.

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