Cheesy Chicken Penne Bake

Cheesy Chicken Penne Bake: Leftover Magic in a Casserole, great for the budget and your family will have a soothing comfort food!

Transform your leftover baked chicken into a crowd-pleasing pasta bake that’s both comforting and budget-friendly. This cheesy chicken penne casserole breathes new life into yesterday’s dinner, creating a dish that’s even more delicious the second time around.

Get ready for a symphony of flavors and textures in every forkful. Tender shredded chicken mingles with al dente penne pasta, all enveloped in a creamy, herb-infused cheese sauce. As it bakes, the top layer turns golden and crispy, promising a satisfying contrast to the gooey goodness underneath.

This recipe draws inspiration from classic Italian-American baked pasta dishes, but with a thrifty twist. It’s a perfect example of how simple ingredients and smart cooking can stretch your food budget without sacrificing taste. Serve it alongside a crisp green salad for a complete meal that will have your family requesting encore performances.

Cheesy Chicken Penne Bake Recipe

Ingredients:

12 oz penne pasta

2 cups shredded leftover baked chicken (from about 3-4 drumsticks)

1 cup cottage cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 large egg, beaten

1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

1 1/2 cups marinara sauce

2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Cook penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

3. In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, cottage cheese, 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, dried herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

4. Add the cooked penne to the chicken mixture and stir to combine.

5. Spread 1/2 cup of marinara sauce in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.

6. Transfer the pasta and chicken mixture to the baking dish, spreading it evenly.

7. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top.

8. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese over the sauce.

9. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.

10. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

11. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Air Fryer Instructions:

1. Preheat air fryer to 350°F (175°C).

2. Divide the pasta mixture between 2-3 small, air fryer-safe baking dishes.

3. Cook each dish for 10-12 minutes, until cheese is melted and pasta is heated through.

4. Serve immediately.

Notes:

• Can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerated before baking
• Freeze unbaked casserole for up to 3 months; thaw overnight before baking
• Try using different pasta shapes like rotini or fusilli for variety
• Add frozen peas or sautéed bell peppers to boost vegetable content

Nutrition Information

Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole

Calories: 380

Fat: 14g

Protein: 25g

Carbohydrates: 42g

Fiber: 2g

Sodium: 580mg

Other Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 35 minutes

Equipment: Large pot, 9×13 inch baking dish, mixing bowl

Estimated cost per serving: $2.00

Total cost: $12 (6 servings)

In Conclusion, Cheesy Chicken Penne Bake

This Cheesy Chicken Penne Bake proves that leftovers can be the start of something spectacular. By combining yesterday’s chicken with pantry staples, you’ve created a satisfying, economical meal that tastes anything but “leftover.” It’s a delicious reminder that with a little creativity, you can turn simple ingredients into a dish your family will love.