Introduction
Welcome to our delicious recipe for Baked Creamy Chicken Pasta. This hearty and comforting dish is perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. With tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, you’ll find this recipe easy to follow and incredibly satisfying. Let’s dive in and learn how to make this mouthwatering dish step by step.
Ingredients
For this Baked Creamy Chicken Pasta recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 pound penne pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Steps
Follow these simple steps to create your Baked Creamy Chicken Pasta:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic becomes fragrant.
4. Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and add them to the skillet. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink in the center.
5. Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, heavy cream, dried oregano, and dried basil to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
7. Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and stir until it is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
8. Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased baking dish and top it with grated Parmesan cheese.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Variations
There are endless possibilities for customizing your Baked Creamy Chicken Pasta. Here are a few ideas to try:
– Add some vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
– Sprinkle some crispy bacon or pancetta on top before baking for a delicious twist.
– Experiment with different types of cheese such as mozzarella or cheddar to create a unique flavor profile.
– For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapenos.
Tips
Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Baked Creamy Chicken Pasta turns out perfectly:
– Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for convenience, but you can also use boneless, skinless chicken thighs if you prefer.
– Be sure to cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly in the oven.
– Don’t skip sautéing the onion and garlic before adding the chicken. This step enhances the flavor of the dish.
– Feel free to adjust the seasonings according to your taste preferences. Add more herbs or spices for a bolder flavor.
– Let the pasta cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken and set.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Baked Creamy Chicken Pasta is a delightful and satisfying dish that will impress your family and friends. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a winning combination that everyone will love. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a comforting meal, this recipe is a great choice. So, roll up your sleeves, gather the ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a delicious homemade meal. Bon appétit!
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne pasta works great for this recipe, you can experiment with other types such as fusilli, rigatoni, or even spaghetti.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. When you’re ready to serve, simply pop it in the oven and bake until heated through.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave before enjoying.
Can I substitute the heavy cream with a lighter option?
Yes, if you prefer a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream. Keep in mind that the sauce may be slightly less creamy.
Baked Creamy Chicken Pasta
A delightful and satisfying dish featuring tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. This Baked Creamy Chicken Pasta is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
Ingredients
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1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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1 pound penne pasta
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 onion, diced
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3 cloves of garlic, minced
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1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
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1 cup chicken broth
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1 cup heavy cream
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1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1 teaspoon dried basil
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Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté diced onion and minced garlic until translucent and fragrant.
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Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Add to the skillet and cook until no longer pink in the center.
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Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, heavy cream, dried oregano, and dried basil to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
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Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 5 minutes to meld flavors.
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Add cooked penne pasta to the skillet and stir to coat with the creamy sauce.
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Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased baking dish and top with grated Parmesan cheese.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
