Introduction

The Chicken Pasta Bake is a comforting and hearty dish that combines tender chicken, delicious pasta, and a rich, creamy sauce, all baked to perfection. It’s an easy recipe that makes for a fantastic family meal or a dish to impress guests. With its cheesy topping and flavorful ingredients, this pasta bake is sure to please everyone at the table.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– Chicken breast – 500g
– Pasta (penne or fusilli) – 300g
– Onion – 1 medium, diced
– Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
– Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
– Tomato sauce – 400g
– Cream – 250ml
– Chicken stock – 250ml
– Cheese (grated) – 150g
– Italian seasoning – 1 teaspoon
– Salt – to taste
– Pepper – to taste
– Fresh parsley – for garnish

Prep Time

The prep time for the Chicken Pasta Bake is approximately 15 minutes. This includes chopping the vegetables, cooking the chicken, and preparing the pasta.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

The cook time for this dish is around 30 minutes, making the total time about 45 minutes from start to finish. This recipe yields about 4 servings, making it perfect for a family dinner or leftovers for the next day.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Preheat oven

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).

Step 2: Cook pasta

Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté onion and garlic

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant.

Step 4: Prepare chicken

Add diced chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Mix in sauce and herbs

Pour in tomato sauce, add Italian herbs, and stir until well combined. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes.

Step 6: Combine pasta and chicken mixture

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the chicken mixture. Stir to combine all ingredients evenly.

Step 7: Add cheese

Stir in half of the shredded cheese into the pasta and chicken mixture.

Step 8: Transfer to baking dish

Transfer the combined pasta mixture to a large baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Step 9: Top with remaining cheese

Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top of the pasta mixture.

Step 10: Bake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 11: Cool and serve

Allow the bake to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

Note 1: Pasta types

You can use any pasta shape, such as penne, fusilli, or rigatoni, based on your preference.

Note 2: Chicken alternatives

Substitute chicken with cooked shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.

Note 3: Cheese options

Feel free to use a mix of cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, or parmesan for added flavor.

Note 4: Storage

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Note 5: Freezing

This bake can be frozen before or after baking. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Cook techniques

Cooking the chicken

Cooking the chicken until it’s golden brown and fully cooked is essential before mixing it with the pasta. This step ensures maximum flavor and prevents the chicken from being undercooked when baked together with the pasta.

Cooking the pasta

Al dente pasta is key for a perfect bake. Cook the pasta just until it’s slightly firm in the center, as it will continue to cook in the oven and absorb flavors from the sauce.

Making the sauce

A creamy sauce is created by combining ingredients like cream and cheese. This sauce not only adds moisture but also binds the pasta and chicken together, making each bite delicious.

Baking the dish

Baking the chicken pasta mixture allows all the flavors to meld together. Covering the dish with foil initially can help retain moisture, while removing it towards the end promotes a golden, bubbly top.

Serving suggestion

Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes after baking before serving. This helps the layers set, making it easier to portion out and serve.

FAQ

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with other proteins like turkey, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave.

Can I freeze the chicken pasta bake?

Yes, this dish freezes well. Just ensure it cools completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

What can I add to the dish for extra flavor?

You can enhance the dish with vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers, and spices like garlic powder or Italian seasoning for additional flavor.

Is it necessary to use cream in the sauce?

While cream adds richness, you can substitute it with a lower-fat option like milk or a dairy-free alternative if preferred.

Conclusion

The Chicken Pasta Bake is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and pasta, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. This baked meal is not only comforting but also easy to prepare, providing a wonderful option for family dinners or gatherings. The layers of flavors and textures create a satisfying experience, ensuring that everyone at the table will be coming back for seconds.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Vegetable Pasta Bake

Substitute the chicken with seasonal vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and spinach for a delightful vegetarian option.

Cheesy Broccoli and Chicken Casserole

Add broccoli florets to the chicken mixture for added nutrients and a pop of color, perfect for family-friendly meals.

Spicy Chicken Pasta Bake

Incorporate some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the dish to give it a spicy kick, catering to those who enjoy a bit of heat.

Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake

Mix in some basil pesto with the sauce for a fresh and aromatic flavor that elevates the traditional pasta bake.

Seafood Pasta Bake

Swap the chicken for shrimp or crab meat to create a seafood variation that is rich and decadent, ideal for special occasions.