Delicious chicken pasta casserole ready to serve, featuring creamy sauce and topped with cheese.

Crazy Good Chicken Pasta Casserole Recipe

ByCasey Monroe

why make this recipe

Crazy Good Chicken Pasta Casserole is a wonderful dish that combines the comforting flavors of chicken, bacon, and cheese into a hearty meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings with family and friends. This casserole is easy to make and is sure to please both kids and adults alike. With its creamy texture and delightful taste, it’s a dish you’ll want to add to your regular meal rotation.

how to make Crazy Good Chicken Pasta Casserole

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)

Directions:

  1. In a skillet, fry the bacon until crispy. Crumble and set aside.
  2. Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and cook them in the same skillet with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  3. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain and return to the pot.
  4. Add the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, chopped tomato, and half of the shredded cheese to the pasta. Stir until well combined.
  5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch casserole dish. Top with the crumbled bacon and remaining cheese.
  6. Bake for 20 minutes. Garnish with green onions before serving.

how to serve Crazy Good Chicken Pasta Casserole

Serve warm straight from the oven. This casserole goes well with a side salad or steamed vegetables. For an extra touch, consider adding some fresh herbs, like parsley or basil, on top before serving.

how to store Crazy Good Chicken Pasta Casserole

To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or transfer it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

tips to make Crazy Good Chicken Pasta Casserole

  • Make sure to cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook while baking.
  • Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to the mixture for added nutrition.
  • If you want a little more spice, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the chicken while cooking.

variation

You can easily customize this casserole by using different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or pepper jack. You could also substitute turkey bacon for a lighter option or use leftover cooked chicken for quicker prep.

FAQs

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

2. Can I add more vegetables to the casserole?
Absolutely! Feel free to add any favorite vegetables like broccoli, peas, or bell peppers to enhance the dish.

3. What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.