Description
This Bang Bang Chicken Casserole is a creamy, spicy, and flavorful baked dish combining tender cooked chicken, pasta, and a rich blend of cheeses and sauces. Perfect for a comforting weeknight meal, it offers a delightful balance of heat from sriracha and sweet chili sauce while being easy to prepare and bake to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
- 8 ounces penne or rotini pasta, cooked and drained
Cheese and Dairy
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
Sauces and Seasonings
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 2 teaspoons lime juice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetables and Garnish
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional topping)
- Chopped cilantro or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole evenly.
- Make the Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, lime juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir the mixture until it becomes smooth and well blended.
- Combine Pasta and Chicken: Add the cooked pasta, cooked chicken, and chopped green onions into the sauce mixture. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly coated with the sauce.
- Add Cheese: Fold in the mozzarella and cheddar cheeses, reserving a handful of cheese for topping later.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the entire mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly to ensure consistent baking.
- Top and Bake: Sprinkle the remaining cheese and panko breadcrumbs (if using) evenly over the top of the casserole. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow it to set. Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley and an additional drizzle of sriracha if desired before serving.
Notes
- Rotisserie chicken works great for this recipe, saving time.
- Adjust the spice level by increasing or reducing the amount of sriracha according to your taste.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute regular pasta and panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
