Creamy Oven-Baked Cheesy Chicken Delight

Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

For the Casserole:

• 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
• 2 cups cooked pasta (penne, rotini, or egg noodles)
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella)
• 1 cup milk
• ½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• Salt & pepper to taste

For the Topping:

• ½ cup shredded cheese (extra for topping)
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• 1 tbsp melted butter
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven:
   • Set to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce:
   • In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
   • Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
   • Gradually whisk in milk and chicken broth until smooth.
   • Add garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
   • Stir in 1 ½ cups shredded cheese until melted. Remove from heat.
3. Assemble the Casserole:
   • In a large bowl, mix cooked chicken, pasta, sour cream, and cheese sauce.
   • Pour mixture into the greased baking dish and spread evenly.
4. Prepare the Topping:
   • Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole.
   • Top with remaining shredded cheese.
5. Bake:
   • Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
6. Garnish & Serve:
   • Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm!
   • Sprinkle additional shredded cheese and top with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers