Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with a dish that's both comforting and bursting with flavor? Look no further than this Chicken Caesar Pasta Casserole! Imagine tender penne pasta enveloped in a creamy Caesar dressing, combined with juicy chicken and topped with gooey mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. This mouthwatering casserole is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a breeze to prepare, making it the perfect solution for busy evenings. With just 45 minutes from prep to table, you’ll want to bookmark this recipe for those nights when you crave something hearty yet simple. Dive in and discover how to whip up this delicious meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1 cup Caesar dressing
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup croutons (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and diced chicken, cooked penne pasta, Caesar dressing, halved cherry tomatoes, and half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Gently mix until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
- If using croutons, crush them lightly and sprinkle over the top of the casserole for added crunch.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes to allow the cheese to set and flavors to meld.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Make sure to cook the penne pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook while baking in the casserole. This ensures the pasta retains its texture and doesn’t become mushy.
- Customize Your Chicken: Feel free to use leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you have on hand. This will save you time and add extra flavor to your casserole.
- Add Veggies: For a nutritional boost, consider adding vegetables like spinach or broccoli. Just blanch them briefly before mixing them into the casserole.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses! You can add cheddar for a sharper flavor or even a sprinkle of feta for a unique twist.
- Croutons for Crunch: If you’re using croutons, crush them lightly to ensure they create a delightful crunch on top of the casserole. This adds texture and enhances the overall eating experience.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking helps the cheese set and makes it easier to serve.
- Garnish for Freshness: Don’t skip the fresh parsley garnish! It adds a pop of color and a fresh flavor that brightens up the dish.With these tips, your Chicken Caesar Pasta Casserole will be a hit at the dinner table!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 75mg
