Description
Cheesy Shredded Chicken Casserole is a hearty, family-style dish combining tender shredded chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce. Layers of sharp cheddar and Gruyère deliver luxurious comfort, while fresh herbs add authentic alpine flavor. This casserole is perfect for gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
12 oz elbow macaroni or penne pasta
3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
2 cups chicken broth (low-sodium)
1 cup heavy cream
1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
3 tbsp butter
3 tbsp all-purpose flour
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Melt 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken 6-7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Let rest 5 minutes, then shred with forks.
4. Melt remaining 2 tbsp butter in the skillet. Sauté onion for 4-5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and thyme, cooking 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Sprinkle flour over onion mixture and whisk constantly for 1 minute.
6. Gradually add chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking to prevent lumps. Simmer 2-3 minutes until thickened. Stir in Dijon mustard and half of the shredded cheeses until melted.
7. Combine shredded chicken, pasta, and cheese sauce in a large bowl. Stir in parsley and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
8. Transfer mixture to greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with remaining shredded cheese.
9. Bake 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
10. Let casserole rest 5-10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Shred your own cheese for smoother melting.
Brown chicken properly for extra flavor and deglaze pan with broth.
Let casserole rest after baking for perfect slices.
Use short pasta that holds sauce well.
Optional: add roasted broccoli, mushrooms, ham, or bacon for variations.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Main Course, Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Swiss/American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 580 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 16 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 125 mg