Chicken Casserole With Pasta
A hearty chicken casserole with pasta, tender meat, and flavorful tomatoes, topped with cheese. Perfect for comforting family dinners and easy weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the chicken into serving pieces and place in a casserole dish.
- Add butter or olive oil to the casserole.
- Add the finely chopped onion.
- Add peeled and diced tomatoes.
- Season with salt and pepper, then mix well.
- Cover the casserole and bake at 350°F for 1 hour or until the chicken is tender.
- Add 6 cups of boiling water and the minestra pasta, then stir well.
- Cover and continue baking for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Serve hot, topped with grated cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken in lemon juice and herbs before cooking. If you don't have minestra pasta, substitute with any short pasta like penne or fusilli. To save time, you can use rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken, which will also enhance the flavor. This dish is similar to Pantry Chicken Casserole, making it versatile for what you have on hand.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the casserole hot, garnished with freshly grated cheese for a delicious finish. It pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables, providing a balanced meal. For an added touch, you might serve it alongside a loaf of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover chicken casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. If you prefer, you can microwave individual portions for quicker reheating. Ensure it’s heated to at least 165°F before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Casserole With Pasta contains roughly 108 calories, with 5g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (53% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1537mg per serving (67% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken for this casserole, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking to ensure even cooking and flavor absorption. Additionally, you may need to increase the baking time slightly to ensure the chicken is fully cooked through.
What can I substitute for tomatoes if I don't have fresh ones?
If you don't have fresh tomatoes, you can use canned diced tomatoes as a substitute. Drain them slightly before adding to the casserole. Alternatively, tomato sauce or tomato paste mixed with water can also work, though it may change the final texture.
How can I make this casserole healthier?
To make this casserole healthier, consider using skinless chicken breasts instead of whole pieces, and reduce the amount of butter or oil. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).