Cheesy Chicken Pasta Casserole Recipe

If you’re craving the coziest, most soul-warming comfort food, look no further than this Cheesy Chicken Pasta Casserole. Tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a dreamy blend of marinara and Alfredo all come together in one mouthwatering bake that just begs for a big, cheesy scoop. This casserole is exactly what potluck dreams are made of, and it’s so easy it’ll quickly become your go-to for fuss-free family dinners and casual get-togethers alike. Let’s dive right into the delicious details!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your lineup for Cheesy Chicken Pasta Casserole couldn’t be simpler, but each ingredient plays a huge part in building irresistible flavor, hearty texture, and those drool-worthy cheese pulls. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:

• Chicken breast: Provides lean, juicy protein that soaks up all the rich sauce flavors.
• Marinara sauce (24 oz): Brings bright, tangy tomato notes that balance the creaminess.
• Alfredo sauce (15 oz): Adds luxurious, velvety texture and mild cheesy flavor throughout.
• Pepper (½ tsp): Just enough to perk up all the savory notes and add a hint of warmth.
• Onion powder (1 tsp): Rounds out the dish with a gentle savory-sweet aroma.
• Italian seasoning (1 tsp): Infuses herby goodness and classic Italian flavor.
• Red pepper flakes (¼ tsp): Optional but perfect for a little kick – adjust to your taste!
• Garlic, minced (1 tbsp): Brings bright, punchy flavor that’s a must for tasty casseroles.
• Pasta (16 oz, gluten free or regular): The hearty base that soaks up every bit of creamy, cheesy sauce.
• Mozzarella cheese: Melts into that iconic gooey, golden topping everyone craves.
• Parmesan cheese: Finishes the dish with salty, nutty depth and beautiful texture.
• Fresh basil: The ultimate garnish – adds color, freshness, and a restaurant-worthy look.

How to Make Cheesy Chicken Pasta Casserole

Step 1: Layer in the Crockpot

Start by nestling those boneless, skinless chicken breasts right into the bottom of your crockpot. This is the foundation—letting the chicken cook low and slow means it ends up incredibly tender and soaks up every bit of flavor from the sauces you’ll add next.

Step 2: Pour in the Sauces

Open up your jars of marinara and Alfredo and pour them directly over the chicken. Make sure every inch is covered so that as the casserole cooks, the chicken gets infused with that creamy-tomato blend that’s irresistibly good. This saucy combo is the secret to what makes Cheesy Chicken Pasta Casserole so comforting and indulgent.

Step 3: Add the Seasonings

Sprinkle in the salt, pepper, onion powder, Italian seasoning, minced garlic, and just a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Stir everything just enough to distribute those spices without disturbing the chicken too much.

Step 4: Cook Until Fork-Tender

Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-6 hours. The slow cooking process is essential—it turns the chicken meltingly tender, so it practically falls apart with a fork, and the flavors have plenty of time to blend into a creamy, dreamy sauce.

Step 5: Shred the Chicken

With the chicken now fully cooked, grab two forks and shred it directly in the crockpot. This helps the sauce thicken and ensures every bite has luscious strands of chicken nestled in that savory sauce.

Step 6: Cook the Pasta

While the chicken blends with the sauce, boil your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. You want it to have a little bite – it’ll finish softening when mixed into the casserole. Drain it well to keep the sauce thick and creamy.

Step 7: Mix Pasta and Chicken

Stir the cooked, drained pasta into the crockpot, folding gently until everything is well coated and combined. Every twist of pasta will now be cloaked in that heavenly cheesy sauce, chicken, and aromatics.

Step 8: Add the Cheese Topping

Generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the entire surface of the casserole. Cover and let it cook for another 15-20 minutes, just until the cheese is perfectly melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top. That’s the hallmark of an amazing Cheesy Chicken Pasta Casserole!

Step 9: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the creamy chicken and pasta onto plates, then shower with freshly grated Parmesan and a flurry of fresh basil. These final touches make every serving feel special and restaurant-worthy.

How to Serve Cheesy Chicken Pasta Casserole

Garnishes

Generous sprinkles of Parmesan cheese and torn fresh basil are the ideal garnishes. The Parmesan adds sharp, salty flavor that perfectly finishes each bite of Cheesy Chicken Pasta Casserole, while the basil gives a pop of green and an aromatic, herby freshness. For a fun twist, a little lemon zest or cracked black pepper makes a beautiful finishing touch, too!

Side Dishes

Pairing is half the fun! Serve this casserole with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette, or some buttery garlic bread for sopping up every last bit of sauce. Roasted vegetables like zucchini or broccoli add color and keep the meal feeling balanced. It’s rich and filling, so sides can stay light and fresh.

Creative Ways to Present

For a playful family-style feel, serve the Cheesy Chicken Pasta Casserole straight from the crockpot so everyone can dig in together. Hosting guests? Ladle portions into shallow bowls, garnish generously, and top with a swirl of extra Alfredo sauce or a drizzle of pesto. For parties, bake mini ramekins so everyone gets their own bubbling, cheesy portion!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Cheesy Chicken Pasta Casserole will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors get even deeper as it sits, and the sauce thickens to coat the pasta and chicken beautifully. When storing, let the casserole cool a bit before refrigerating to keep everything at the perfect texture.

Freezing

This casserole is wonderfully freezer-friendly! Allow the Cheesy Chicken Pasta Casserole to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for up to 2 months. For best results, freeze individual portions so you can defrost just what you need for easy lunches or busy weeknights.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F until hot and bubbly, or use the microwave for quick portions. If the sauce thickens too much after chilling, simply stir in a splash of milk or a little extra Alfredo before reheating. Top with a fresh dusting of Parmesan and basil before serving to revive that just-baked flavor.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a wonderful shortcut. Just shred the chicken and add it during the step when you would typically return shredded chicken to the crockpot. Reduce the overall cook time considerably, since you’re only heating everything through!

Can I make Cheesy Chicken Pasta Casserole with a different kind of pasta?

Definitely. Any short pasta like penne, rotini, or shells will work wonderfully. Just make sure the pasta is cooked al dente so it holds its shape once mixed with the creamy sauce.

Should I use homemade or store-bought sauces?

Both work just fine for Cheesy Chicken Pasta Casserole! Store-bought keeps things easy and convenient, but if you have homemade marinara and Alfredo on hand, feel free to use them for an extra-special homemade flavor boost.

Is this recipe gluten free?

It can be! Simply ensure you use your favorite gluten free pasta. Also, double-check that your sauces are gluten free, as some brands add thickening agents that may contain gluten.

What’s the best way to store and reheat leftovers?

Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the oven or microwave, adding a little splash of milk if needed to loosen up the sauce. Garnish with extra Parmesan and basil for fresh, revived flavor.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Cheesy Chicken Pasta Casserole enough—it’s hearty, creamy, packed with flavor, and undeniably crowd-pleasing. Give it a try this week and watch your family come running to the table. Happy cooking, and enjoy every cheesy, delicious bite!

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