Cheesy Chicken Pasta Bake

Chicken Pasta Bake

Introduction

Chicken Pasta Bake is a hearty and comforting dish that combines juicy chicken, pasta, and a rich tomato sauce, all baked to perfection with melted cheese on top. It’s a great option for family dinners or meal prepping for the week. Once you take a bite, you’ll understand why it’s a favorite in many households!

Why Make This Recipe

There are many reasons to make Chicken Pasta Bake. First, it’s simple and quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Second, it’s customizable! You can use different types of pasta or add your favorite vegetables. Lastly, it’s filling and full of flavor, ensuring everyone at the table will leave satisfied.

How to Make Chicken Pasta Bake

Making Chicken Pasta Bake involves a few straightforward steps. Below, we will go through each step so you can create this delicious dish at home.

Ingredients

500g / 1 lb chicken thighs, cut into small bite-size pieces (Note 1)
1/2 tsp cooking/kosher salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder
2 tsp Italian herb mix, any store-bought type
300g / 10oz rigatoni (or penne, elbow macaroni, shells, or similar)
2 tsp salt, for cooking pasta
5 slices streaky bacon
1/2 onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp chili flakes / red pepper flakes
1/2 cup chardonnay or other dry white wine (Note 2)
2 tbsp tomato paste
700g / 24oz tomato passata (Note 3)
1/2 cup water
1 tsp cooking/kosher salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
3 tomatoes, cut into 8 wedges then halved
2 big handfuls baby spinach (or bite-size kale)
2 cups mozzarella, shredded
1/2 cup (tightly packed) parmesan, finely shredded

Directions

Preheat the oven to 180°C / 350°F (160°C fan).
Cook the pasta according to the packet instructions in boiling water seasoned with the 2 teaspoons of salt. Drain and rinse briefly under tap water. Set aside to cool while you make the sauce.
Toss together the seasoned chicken ingredients in a bowl.
In a large non-stick pan, place the bacon and turn the heat on medium-high. Cook until it’s light golden and crispy, then remove it and place it onto paper towels. Leave the fat in the pan.
Increase the heat to high and add the chicken. Cook for about 3 minutes until golden on the outside but still raw inside. Remove the chicken into a bowl.
In the same pan, add onion and garlic. Cook for 1 minute, then add chili flakes and oregano. Cook for another 2 minutes until the onion is translucent.
Add the wine and let it simmer for 1 to 2 minutes until mostly evaporated. Add the tomato paste and cook for 1 more minute.
Add the passata, rinsing the bottle with the water. Include the salt, pepper, and chicken. Mix and simmer for 5 minutes.
Finally, add the baby spinach, tomatoes, pasta, and bacon. Toss everything well.
Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Top with mozzarella and parmesan. Bake for 25 minutes until melted with some golden spots.
Let it stand for 5 minutes and then serve!

How to Serve Chicken Pasta Bake

Serve Chicken Pasta Bake hot, straight from the oven. It pairs well with a simple side salad or some garlic bread. The cheesy, gooey top is always a hit!

How to Store Chicken Pasta Bake

If you have leftovers, let the Chicken Pasta Bake cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the fridge. It can last for about 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven or microwave until warm.

Tips to Make Chicken Pasta Bake

For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of cream to the sauce.
Feel free to use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time.
You can also add other veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition.

Variation

You can make this dish vegetarian by omitting the chicken and bacon, and adding more vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms instead.

FAQs

Q: Can I use different types of pasta?
A: Yes, you can substitute rigatoni with any short pasta like penne or shells.

Q: Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance, refrigerate it, and bake it when you are ready to serve.

Q: Can I freeze Chicken Pasta Bake?
A: Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Just cover it well and it should last for about 2-3 months. To prepare, thaw it in the refrigerator and bake following the original instructions.

Enjoy your homemade Chicken Pasta Bake!