Description
Bang Bang Chicken Casserole is a flavorful and comforting baked pasta dish featuring tender cooked chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a creamy, spicy bang bang sauce. Topped with melted mozzarella and crispy panko breadcrumbs, this casserole is perfect for an easy weeknight dinner that combines a kick of heat with cheesy goodness.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini), cooked and drained
- 1 cup broccoli florets (lightly steamed or blanched)
- ½ cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (optional topping)
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (for garnish)
Bang Bang Sauce
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (or more to taste)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar or lime juice (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- Make the Bang Bang Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and optional rice vinegar or lime juice until you get a smooth, creamy sauce with a spicy-sweet flavor profile.
- Combine Casserole Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, steamed broccoli florets, diced red bell pepper, and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Pour the bang bang sauce over the mixture and stir well until everything is evenly coated.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Transfer the combined pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese on top. If using, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs over the cheese for a crunchy topping.
- Bake the Casserole: Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes in the preheated oven until the casserole is bubbly and the top becomes golden brown and crispy.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to sit for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving to add freshness and a mild onion flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken with turkey or tofu for a different protein variation.
- If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of sriracha or omit it entirely.
- Panko breadcrumbs are optional but add a nice crunchy texture to the topping.
- Use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free panko if you require a gluten-free dish.
- Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat thoroughly before serving.
