Homestyle Chicken Penne Casserole

In the realm of comforting and hearty meals, few dishes compare to the homely embrace of a chicken penne casserole. This quintessential comfort food combines tender penne pasta, succulent chicken, creamy sauce, and gooey cheese to create a culinary masterpiece that satisfies both the stomach and the soul. In this article, we delve into the art of crafting the perfect homestyle chicken penne casserole, complete with detailed instructions and helpful tips to ensure your culinary success.

Ingredients:

Instructions:

1. 1. Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to a cozy 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Butter a 9×13 inch baking dish, setting the stage for culinary magic.
   2. Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until just al dente, according to package instructions.

1. 1. Prepare Casserole Mixture: Drain the pasta and combine it in the pot with cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

1. 1. Layer Casserole: Pour half of the creamy mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle a layer of shredded cheddar cheese over it, then add the remaining pasta mixture on top.
   2. Add Cheese and Breadcrumbs: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly over the casserole. In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle this mixture over the cheese layer.
   3. Bake: Slide the casserole into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbling around the edges and golden brown on top.

1. Serve: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.