This cheesy chicken pasta bake is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. It's a crowd-pleaser that's surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal prep time and delivering maximum flavor. This recipe goes beyond the basics, offering tips and tricks to elevate your pasta bake to restaurant-quality deliciousness. Get ready to impress your family and friends!
What Makes This Cheesy Chicken Pasta Bake Special?
This recipe isn't your average pasta bake. We're focusing on building layers of flavor, using a creamy, cheesy sauce that's rich and satisfying without being heavy. We'll use fresh herbs to brighten the dish, and crisp-baked breadcrumbs for a textural contrast that elevates the experience. It's all about creating a balanced and unforgettable meal.
Ingredients You'll Need:
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For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
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For the Sauce:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10.75 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 tsp dried oregano
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For the Pasta:
- 1 lb pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
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For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp melted butter
Instructions:
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Cook the Pasta: Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
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Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
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Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp olive oil. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Stir in cream of mushroom soup, milk, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, parsley, and oregano. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is smooth.
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Combine: Add cooked pasta and chicken to the sauce. Stir to combine.
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Assemble and Bake: Pour the pasta mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the top of the pasta bake.
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Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
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Serve: Let cool slightly before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Experiment with your favorite cheeses. Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or even a blend of Mexican cheeses would work wonderfully.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the pasta bake ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
What kind of pasta works best?
Penne, rotini, and farfalle are all excellent choices for this recipe. Choose a pasta that holds its shape well in the sauce.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! Consider adding chopped broccoli, peas, carrots, or mushrooms for extra nutrients and flavor. Add them to the sauce along with the chicken and pasta.
How can I make this healthier?
Use whole wheat pasta, reduce the amount of cheese, and add more vegetables to boost the nutritional value. You can also use low-fat cream of mushroom soup.
This cheesy chicken pasta bake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its versatility allows for customization to suit your preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy!
