If you’re craving a cozy yet zesty dinner that brings together the bright flavors of lemon, tender chicken, and comforting pasta, this Chicken Piccata Pasta Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine all the classic notes of chicken piccata transformed into a creamy, cheesy casserole that’s perfect for feeding a family or impressing guests without fuss. This dish marries the tang of lemon and capers with the smooth richness of Alfredo and ricotta, giving you a luscious pasta bake that’s simply irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Chicken Piccata Pasta Casserole Recipe, you’ll rely on a handful of straightforward ingredients that each bring something special to the party. From creamy cheeses to zesty lemons and savory chicken, these staples create layers of flavor, texture, and color that make this casserole a sure hit.
- Penne pasta: Holds sauce beautifully with a perfect al dente bite that carries every flavorful forkful.
- Alfredo sauce: Adds rich creaminess that balances the brightness of lemon juice and zest.
- Chicken broth: Enhances the sauce with subtle savory depth without overpowering.
- Lemons (juice and zest): Provide fresh zing, cutting through the richness for a lively finish.
- Dried minced onion flakes: Deliver savory sweetness and a hint of texture without needing fresh onions.
- Garlic powder: Offers an aromatic punch that’s key to that classic piccata flavor profile.
- Ricotta cheese: Brings fluffy creaminess that softens the casserole’s texture and enriches the sauce.
- Cooked chopped chicken: The hearty star that makes this casserole a satisfying meal.
- Capers: Add a briny, tangy pop that perfectly complements the lemon and chicken.
- Grated parmesan cheese: Provides a nutty, cheesy crust that gets golden and bubbly in the oven.
How to Make Chicken Piccata Pasta Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish and Cook Pasta
Begin by preheating your oven to 350ºF and giving a 9×13-inch baking dish a light coat of cooking spray so nothing sticks. While the oven warms, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions but aim for al dente—it should still have a little bite since it will cook more in the oven. Drain the pasta and set it aside; this forms the hearty base of your casserole.
Step 2: Create the Creamy, Zesty Sauce
In a roomy mixing bowl, combine Alfredo sauce, chicken broth, freshly squeezed lemon juice from 2 to 3 lemons, lemon zest from one lemon, dried minced onion flakes, garlic powder, and ricotta cheese. Stir until smooth and well blended. This sauce is where all the magic begins, balancing creaminess with bright citrus flavors that mimic the beloved Chicken Piccata taste.
Step 3: Mix in Chicken, Capers, and Cheese
To your sauce, add the cooked chopped chicken, drained capers, and grated parmesan cheese. Fold in the cooked penne pasta gently to coat every piece evenly. The capers add a delightful briny zing that’s essential for that piccata character, while the cheeses melt into every nook for a luscious bite.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Pour the luscious pasta mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Bake uncovered for 40 to 50 minutes until it’s beautifully bubbly and golden on top. This slow bake melds all the flavors together and gives the parmesan a crunchy, cheesy crust that’s so satisfying.
How to Serve Chicken Piccata Pasta Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Chicken Piccata Pasta Casserole Recipe, add a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil on top just before serving. A few extra lemon slices or a small handful of capers scattered over each portion will brighten up the presentation and reinforce those fresh piccata flavors.
Side Dishes
This casserole goes beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. Roasted or steamed veggies like asparagus, green beans, or broccoli also complement nicely by adding a healthy crunch and fresh contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in oven-safe ramekins and top with extra parmesan before broiling briefly for a golden crust. Another idea is to plate the casserole alongside lemon wedges and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for a restaurant-style flare that’ll wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover leftover Chicken Piccata Pasta Casserole Recipe tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick meals throughout the week.
Freezing
You can freeze this casserole successfully by wrapping it securely with foil and placing it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350ºF uncovered until warmed through, about 20 minutes. For quicker reheating, microwave individual portions in short bursts, stirring in between to heat evenly without drying out the creamy sauce.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this Chicken Piccata Pasta Casserole Recipe?
Absolutely! While penne is perfect for holding sauce, ziti, rigatoni, or even fusilli would work beautifully to soak up all those delicious flavors.
Is it possible to make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap regular pasta with your favorite gluten-free variety and ensure the Alfredo sauce you use is gluten-free as well. The taste and texture will still be fantastic.
Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?
Definitely. About 2 cloves of minced fresh garlic would be perfect to replace garlic powder. Just sauté it lightly if you want a milder flavor before mixing into the sauce.
What type of chicken works best in this recipe?
Cooked chicken breast or rotisserie chicken is ideal. Using pre-cooked chicken saves time and keeps the meat tender and juicy in the casserole.
Can I prepare this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, omit the chicken and consider adding sautéed mushrooms or artichoke hearts for heartiness. You can also boost the capers and lemon for that signature tang to keep the flavor profile vibrant.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting and special about this Chicken Piccata Pasta Casserole Recipe that makes it a perfect weeknight winner or an impressive dish for company. It’s rich, tangy, and effortlessly delicious with textures and flavors that dance together in every bite. If you haven’t tried turning classic chicken piccata into a creamy casserole yet, now’s the time to dive in—you’re going to love it!
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Chicken Piccata Pasta Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 to 50 minutes
- Total Time: 55 to 65 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Chicken Piccata Pasta Casserole is a comforting and delicious Italian-American dish combining tender penne pasta, succulent chicken, and tangy lemon-caper flavors in a creamy Alfredo and ricotta cheese sauce. Baked to bubbly perfection, it’s a perfect weeknight meal that serves eight and brings bright, zesty taste with every bite.
Ingredients
Pasta & Chicken
- 1 (16-oz) box penne pasta
- 4 cups cooked chopped chicken
Sauce
- 2 (15-oz) jars Alfredo sauce
- ¾ cup chicken broth
- 2 to 3 lemons, juiced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 Tbsp dried minced onion flakes
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 (3-oz) jar capers, drained
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare dish: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook pasta: Boil the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
- Make the sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine Alfredo sauce, chicken broth, freshly squeezed lemon juice from 2 to 3 lemons, lemon zest, dried minced onion flakes, garlic powder, and ricotta cheese. Stir well to create a creamy, flavorful sauce base.
- Add main ingredients: Fold in the cooked chopped chicken, drained capers, grated parmesan cheese, and the cooked pasta. Mix thoroughly so all the ingredients are well coated with the lemony sauce.
- Assemble for baking: Transfer the entire pasta mixture into the prepared 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Bake: Place the dish uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 50 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and heated through.
Notes
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the brightest flavor.
- Cook chicken ahead of time or use store-bought rotisserie chicken for ease.
- Allow casserole to cool slightly before serving to help it set.
- Optional: garnish with fresh parsley or extra parmesan cheese before serving.
- This dish can be prepared a day ahead and baked before serving.
