simple chicken pasta bake recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

The Best simple chicken pasta bake recipe

I’m so excited to share with you one of my family’s favorite recipes – simple chicken pasta bake. This dish has been a staple in our household for years, and it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy meal after a long day or a delicious option for a family gathering, this recipe is sure to please.

The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients, making it a great option for busy weeknights or special events. I love how the combination of chicken, pasta, and cheese creates a rich and satisfying flavor profile that never fails to impress.

My kids adore helping me in the kitchen, especially when we’re making this recipe, as they get to play with the pasta and cheese. Plus, it’s a great way to get them involved in cooking and learning about different flavors and textures. As a busy mom, I appreciate how quickly this dish comes together – it’s ready in under an hour, which is perfect for our hectic schedules.

I’ve made this recipe countless times over the years, but it never gets old. In fact, I’ve even experimented with different variations by adding in some veggies or switching up the type of cheese used. But at the end of the day, the classic version remains our absolute favorite.

The health benefits of this recipe are another reason why I love it so much – with lean protein from the chicken and complex carbohydrates from the pasta, this dish is a great way to keep your family fueled without sacrificing flavor.

Simple Chicken Pasta Bake

4.6 from 1782 votes

A comforting and easy-to-make dish featuring tender chicken, pasta, and a creamy cheese sauce. Perfect for a family dinner, this recipe combines simple ingredients for a satisfying meal.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
8 oz pasta, such as penne or fusilli
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup milk
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp olive oil

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 375°F.
2Boil pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
3While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
4Add chicken pieces and cook until they are no longer pink and the juices run clear, about 5-7 minutes.
5Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
6In the same skillet, combine milk, heavy cream, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper.
7Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
8Once simmering, reduce heat to low and let it cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken slightly.
9Stir in the shredded cheese until it is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
10In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, and cheese sauce.
11Stir until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated with the sauce.
12Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
13Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Baking dish
Oven
Spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition. For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Watch Video Of How Simple Chicken Pasta Bake Works

This simple chicken pasta bake is truly a game-changer when it comes to quick and easy meals that everyone will enjoy.

Whether you’re serving it at home with your family or taking it on-the-go as leftovers, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your household just like mine.

And don’t worry about leftovers – they keep beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or can be frozen for later use.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Pasta Bake

Q: Can I use leftover chicken in this recipe?

A: Yes, using leftover chicken is a great way to repurpose last night’s dinner into tomorrow’s lunch. Simply shred or chop the cooked chicken and add it to the pasta mixture before transferring it to the baking dish.

Q: What type of pasta should I use?

A: Any short-cut pasta shape will work well in this recipe – penne, ziti, or rotini are all excellent options. If you prefer a gluten-free option, feel free to substitute in your favorite gluten-free pasta variety.

Q: Can I make this recipe without cheese?

A: While I highly recommend using some type of cheese for its creamy texture and rich flavor, you can definitely make this recipe without dairy if needed – simply omit the shredded mozzarella from the ingredient list.

Q: How do I store leftovers?

A: Store leftover chicken pasta bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months – reheat as desired before serving.

Q: Can I customize this recipe with different seasonings?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to give this dish an extra boost of flavor.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

A: Unfortunately not – since it contains chicken as its primary protein source.

Similar Posts