Chicken Pasta Bake

When I think of comfort food, Chicken Pasta Bake is always at the top of my list. It’s the kind of dish that wraps you in warmth and flavor, making every bite feel like a hug from the inside. I remember the first time I made this recipe for my family; it was a chilly evening, and I wanted something hearty to share. As the smell of roasted cherry tomatoes and melted cheese filled the air, my loved ones gathered around the table, eagerly anticipating the feast. This dish has a way of bringing people together, and it’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends.

What’s truly special about Chicken Pasta Bake is its versatility. You can play around with different types of pasta, cheeses, and even add in your favorite veggies. It’s also an excellent choice for meal prep; you can whip it up on a Sunday and have comforting leftovers throughout the week. Plus, who doesn’t love a one-pot wonder that combines all those delicious ingredients into a creamy, cheesy masterpiece? Trust me, once you try this dish, it will become a staple in your household too.

So, grab your apron and get ready to indulge in this scrumptious Chicken Pasta Bake. I promise it will be a dish you’ll find yourself craving time and time again!

Everything You Need for Chicken Pasta Bake

Gathering the right ingredients is essential for creating the perfect Chicken Pasta Bake. Each component plays a crucial role in developing the overall flavor and texture of the dish. From the hearty pasta to the succulent chicken, these ingredients come together beautifully.

• 2 cups washed and hulled cherry tomatoes, halved – These sweet little gems add a burst of flavor and freshness to the bake.
• 1 lb pack of pasta (Ziti, Rigatoni, or Penne) – The pasta serves as the base, soaking up the creamy sauce.
• 2 teaspoons olive oil – A bit of oil helps in roasting and adds richness.
• 1 medium brown onion, chopped – Onions add depth and sweetness to the sauce.
• 2 cloves garlic, crushed or minced – Garlic brings a fragrant and savory element to the dish.
• 1 lb skinless and boneless chicken thighs or breast, diced – Chicken provides the protein and heartiness.
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano – This herb adds a wonderful aroma and flavor profile.
• 1 teaspoon dried basil – Basil enhances the dish with its sweet and aromatic flavor.
• 2 teaspoons dried parsley flakes – Parsley adds a fresh note and brightens the overall flavor.
• 1 tablespoon vegetable stock powder (Vegeta) – A touch of stock powder intensifies the savory flavor.
• 1 pinch salt to season – Salt is essential for balancing and enhancing flavors.
• 24 oz bottle of Passata or Tomato Sauce – This becomes the base of your creamy sauce.
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste – Tomato paste adds richness and depth to the sauce.
• 1 cup skim/low fat milk or almond milk – Milk creates a creamy texture in the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons cornflour/cornstarch + 1/4 cup water, mixed – This mixture helps to thicken the sauce perfectly.
• 1 cup light mozzarella cheese, grated – Mozzarella contributes that melty, gooey texture.
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese – Parmesan adds a salty, nutty flavor that elevates the dish.

Step by Step Instructions for Chicken Pasta Bake

Making Chicken Pasta Bake is a straightforward yet satisfying process. Follow these simple steps, and soon you’ll be enjoying a delicious, cheesy dish that everyone will love.

1. Preheat your oven to grill/broil settings on medium heat. This step ensures that your Chicken Pasta Bake gets a beautiful golden crust on top, which is crucial for that perfect finish.

2. Prepare the cherry tomatoes by placing them in a single layer on an oven tray lined with foil. Drizzle with a small amount of olive oil or use spray oil, then bake them in the preheated oven until soft and cooked through, which should take about 10 minutes.

3. While the tomatoes are roasting, boil the pasta according to the package instructions in salted water. You want them cooked al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven.

4. In a separate large oven-proof pan, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, frying until fragrant and slightly translucent.

5. Next, introduce the diced chicken to the mix, searing until golden on the outside. This step locks in the flavors and gives the chicken a beautiful color.

6. Sprinkle in the dried oregano, basil, parsley, and vegetable stock powder along with a pinch of salt to season. Stir everything together to combine and let the spices infuse the chicken.

7. Now, it’s time to add the Passata or tomato sauce along with the tomato paste. Stir this mixture well, allowing it to come to a gentle simmer while stirring occasionally. You want the sauce to thicken up nicely.

8. Once the cherry tomatoes are done roasting, add them to the pan and mix everything well. The sweetness of the tomatoes will enhance the sauce’s flavor.

9. Pour the milk and the cornflour mixture into the sauce, stirring again until it becomes creamy and thick. This is what makes the dish so comforting!

10. When the pasta is al dente, drain it and then stir it through the chicken and sauce mixture. Mix half of the mozzarella cheese into the pasta to give it that cheesy goodness.

11. Transfer the entire mixture to a baking dish, sprinkling the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese on top. Optionally, you can add any extra cherry tomatoes for garnish.

12. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until the top is golden and the cheese has melted beautifully. You’re looking for that delicious bubbly texture that signifies it’s ready to serve!

13. Finally, sprinkle additional dried oregano and basil over the top for extra flavor before serving. Your Chicken Pasta Bake is now ready to be devoured!

Recipe Variations about Chicken Pasta Bake

There are endless ways to customize your Chicken Pasta Bake. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Add Vegetables: Consider incorporating fresh spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.
• Spice it Up: If you like heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
• Switch Up the Protein: You can substitute the chicken with turkey, or even go vegetarian by using chickpeas or lentils.
• Cheesy Variations: Try different cheeses like goat cheese or feta for a unique twist.
• Herb Infusion: Use fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary instead of dried for a more aromatic flavor.
• Serving Style: Serve the Chicken Pasta Bake with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

How to Serve Chicken Pasta Bake

Serving Chicken Pasta Bake can be as creative as the dish itself. Here are some ideas to enhance your dining experience:

• Pair with a Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the cheesy richness of the bake.
• Serve with Garlic Bread: Cheesy garlic bread is perfect for scooping up the pasta and sauce.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Top with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
• Consider Portion Sizes: This dish is great for sharing, so serve it in family-style portions right from the baking dish.
• Perfect for Leftovers: You can store leftover Chicken Pasta Bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
• Freezing: If you want to prepare ahead, freeze portions in suitable containers and bake them straight from the freezer.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Chicken Pasta Bake is a delightful dish that brings together comforting flavors in a simple yet elegant way. It’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner, proving that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. I encourage you to try making this dish for yourself; it may just become a new favorite in your home!

Chicken Pasta Bake

The ultimate comfort food, Chicken Pasta Bake combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and melted cheese for a deliciously satisfying meal. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this easy weeknight dinner is sure to impress!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 520

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups cherry tomatoes washed and hulled, halved
• 1 lb pasta pack of Ziti, Rigatoni or Penne
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 medium brown onion chopped
• 2 cloves garlic crushed or minced
• 1 lb chicken thighs or breast skinless and boneless, diced
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 2 teaspoons dried parsley flakes
• 1 tablespoon vegetable stock powder (Vegeta)
• 1 pinch salt to season
• 24 oz Passata or Tomato Sauce for U.S Readers
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 cup skim/low fat milk or almond milk
• 2 tablespoons cornflour/cornstarch mixed with 1/4 cup water
• 1 cup light mozzarella cheese grated
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

Equipment

• Wooden Spoon
• Mixing Bowl
• Oven
• Cutting Board
• Large Pot
• Grater
• Skillet
• Frying Pan
• Chef's Knife
• Saucepan
• Baking Sheet

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to grill/broil settings on medium heat. This step ensures that your Chicken Pasta Bake gets a beautiful golden crust on top, which is crucial for that perfect finish.
2. Prepare the cherry tomatoes by placing them in a single layer on an oven tray lined with foil. Drizzle with a small amount of olive oil or use spray oil, then bake them in the preheated oven until soft and cooked through, which should take about 10 minutes.
3. While the tomatoes are roasting, boil the pasta according to the package instructions in salted water. You want them cooked al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
4. In a separate large oven-proof pan, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, frying until fragrant and slightly translucent.
5. Next, introduce the diced chicken to the mix, searing until golden on the outside. This step locks in the flavors and gives the chicken a beautiful color.
6. Sprinkle in the dried oregano, basil, parsley, and vegetable stock powder along with a pinch of salt to season. Stir everything together to combine and let the spices infuse the chicken.
7. Now, it’s time to add the Passata or tomato sauce along with the tomato paste. Stir this mixture well, allowing it to come to a gentle simmer while stirring occasionally. You want the sauce to thicken up nicely.
8. Once the cherry tomatoes are done roasting, add them to the pan and mix everything well. The sweetness of the tomatoes will enhance the sauce's flavor.
9. Pour the milk and the cornflour mixture into the sauce, stirring again until it becomes creamy and thick. This is what makes the dish so comforting!
10. When the pasta is al dente, drain it and then stir it through the chicken and sauce mixture. Mix half of the mozzarella cheese into the pasta to give it that cheesy goodness.
11. Transfer the entire mixture to a baking dish, sprinkling the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese on top. Optionally, you can add any extra cherry tomatoes for garnish.
12. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until the top is golden and the cheese has melted beautifully. You’re looking for that delicious bubbly texture that signifies it’s ready to serve!
13. Finally, sprinkle additional dried oregano and basil over the top for extra flavor before serving. Your Chicken Pasta Bake is now ready to be devoured!

Notes

• Pair with Cheesy Garlic Bread: This is a perfect accompaniment for dipping and scooping the pasta up into your mouth.

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Meet Maya Warren

Our main recipe developer and resident forager. My passion is cooking with what the season gives us, whether it’s wild mushrooms from the woods or fresh berries from the garden. I work with Chloe to create our main dishes and with Tessa on new flavor ideas for her bakes. I love the challenge of turning a fresh, raw ingredient into something magical.