Chicken Pasta Bake

This Chicken Pasta Bake is one of those comforting meals that brings a smile to your face and warmth to your heart. Picture tender pieces of chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, flavorful sauce all baked together to create a delightful dish your whole family will love. With its cheesy topping and vibrant cherry tomatoes, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also a feast for the eyes. Let’s dive into the deliciousness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chicken Pasta Bake is the epitome of a cozy meal. It’s packed with protein from the chicken, wholesome carbohydrates from the pasta, and plenty of flavor from the herbs and spices. You can customize it with your favorite veggies or cheeses, making it versatile enough for any palate. Plus, it’s a one-dish wonder, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy with family and friends. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe fits the bill perfectly!

Ingredients at a Glance

• 2 cups washed and hulled cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 lb pack of pasta (Ziti, Rigatoni, or Penne)
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 medium brown onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, crushed or minced
• 1 lb skinless and boneless chicken thighs or breast, diced
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 2 teaspoons dried parsley flakes
• 1 tablespoon vegetable stock powder (like Vegeta)
• 1 pinch salt to season
• 24 oz bottle of 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 + 1/4 cup water mixed
• 1 cup light mozzarella cheese, grated
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

Kitchen Gear Checklist

• Large pot: For boiling pasta.
• Skillet: For cooking chicken and veggies.
• Oven-safe baking dish: To assemble and bake the pasta.
• Mixing bowl: For combining sauces and ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring and mixing.

Method: Chicken Pasta Bake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure your Chicken Pasta Bake cooks evenly and gets that lovely golden top.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta of your choice (Ziti, Rigatoni, or Penne) and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Add the diced chicken to the skillet. Season with oregano, basil, parsley flakes, vegetable stock powder, and a pinch of salt. Cook the chicken, stirring occasionally, until it is no longer pink and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes.

Step 5: Create the Sauce

Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes, Passata (or tomato sauce), and tomato paste. Allow this mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and the cornflour/cornstarch mixture until smooth. Pour this into the skillet, stirring to combine, and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is well-coated with the sauce. This is where the magic happens, and you can already start to smell the wonderful aromas!

Step 7: Assemble the Dish

Transfer the pasta mixture into an oven-safe baking dish. Sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese and parmesan cheese generously over the top.

Step 8: Bake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, with a lovely golden color on top.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Once done, remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This Chicken Pasta Bake pairs beautifully with a light salad or some crusty bread. Enjoy every bite of this hearty comfort food!

Tailor It to Your Diet

• Vegetarian option: Substitute the chicken with mushrooms or your favorite plant-based protein.
• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free pasta instead of regular pasta.
• Dairy-free option: Swap out the cheese with vegan cheese alternatives.
• Extra veggies: Mix in bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.

Behind the Recipe

This Chicken Pasta Bake was inspired by the classic Italian-American favorite of baked ziti. With its layers of pasta, sauce, and cheese, it has become a staple in many households. The use of cherry tomatoes adds a burst of freshness and sweetness, making it an exciting twist on traditional recipes. This dish is perfect for gatherings, meal prep, or simply a cozy night in with loved ones.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

This Chicken Pasta Bake is excellent for meal prep! You can assemble the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking. If you’d like to freeze it, wrap the uncooked dish tightly and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. To bake from frozen, simply add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and reheated in the microwave or oven.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While Ziti, Rigatoni, or Penne are traditional choices, you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the type of pasta you choose.

What can I substitute for chicken in this recipe?

You can easily substitute the chicken with cooked ground beef, turkey, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. The key is to ensure whatever protein you choose is cooked through before adding it to the sauce.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare this Chicken Pasta Bake ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve, or you can also freeze it for later use.

How can I make this pasta bake spicier?

If you love a bit of heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce. You could also use a spicy tomato sauce to give it an extra kick!

Hungry for More?

If you enjoyed this Chicken Pasta Bake, stay tuned for more mouthwatering recipes and tips to make your cooking experience even more delightful. We’re always exploring new ways to create delicious meals that are easy to prepare and full of flavor. Happy cooking!