Cheesy Chicken Pasta Bake

Why You’ll Love Cheesy Chicken Pasta Bake  Recipe

This recipe is a perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and savory goodness. It’s a one-dish meal that’s quick to prepare and a great way to use up leftover chicken. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this bake is guaranteed to be a hit. The ranch seasoning adds a fun twist, and it reheats beautifully.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 8 ounces penne pasta

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded

• 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup sour cream

• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded

• 1 packet ranch dressing mix

• 1/2 cup green onions, chopped

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.

3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, and the ranch dressing mix.

4. Stir in the cooked shredded chicken until well blended.

5. Add the drained pasta to the bowl and gently mix until everything is evenly coated.

6. Pour the pasta and chicken mixture into a greased baking dish.

7. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top.

8. Bake for 25 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.

9. Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 6 servings.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Swap penne with rotini or elbow macaroni for a fun twist on texture.

• Use mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese for a different flavor profile.

• Add cooked bacon bits to the mix for extra richness.

• Stir in steamed broccoli or peas for added veggies.

• Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream to lighten it up.

• Make it spicy with a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.

Storage/Reheating

Let the pasta bake cool completely before storing. Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes or bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 15–20 minutes. For freezing, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

What kind of chicken works best for this recipe?

Cooked and shredded rotisserie chicken is ideal, but any leftover cooked chicken will work.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any short pasta like rotini, fusilli, or elbow macaroni can be used.

Is it okay to use low-fat cream cheese and sour cream?

Absolutely, though the texture may be slightly less creamy.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the dish ahead and refrigerate it unbaked for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.

How do I make this dish spicier?

Add diced jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or crushed red pepper flakes to the mix.

Can I add vegetables to the bake?

Yes, steamed broccoli, peas, or bell peppers make great additions.

What if I don’t have ranch dressing mix?

You can make a quick homemade mix with dried dill, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your ranch mix is gluten-free.

Can I freeze this after baking?

Yes, let it cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months.

How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?

Be sure to cook the pasta only until al dente and avoid overbaking.

Conclusion

Cheesy Chicken Pasta Bake is a simple, flavorful dish that combines rich textures and savory flavors into one comforting casserole. Perfect for busy nights or casual gatherings, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to adapt and make ahead. Give it a try the next time you need a hearty, satisfying meal.