Introduction
Welcome to our delicious recipe for Chicken Pasta Bake with Scratch-Made White Sauce. This hearty and flavorful dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or for entertaining guests. The combination of tender chicken, al dente pasta, and creamy white sauce is sure to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. With a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create a mouthwatering pasta bake that will become a family favorite. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
For the Chicken Pasta Bake:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
– 1 pound penne pasta, cooked according to package instructions
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
For the Scratch-Made White Sauce:
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Steps
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, dried oregano, and dried basil. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Shred the cooked chicken using two forks and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Scratch-Made White Sauce
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Stir in the garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Remove the saucepan from the heat.
Step 4: Assemble the Chicken Pasta Bake
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and white sauce. Mix well to ensure that the pasta and chicken are evenly coated with the sauce. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Step 5: Bake and Serve
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your homemade Chicken Pasta Bake with Scratch-Made White Sauce!
Variations
There are several ways to customize this Chicken Pasta Bake to suit your taste preferences:
– Add some diced bell peppers and onions for a pop of color and added flavor.
– Incorporate cooked bacon or ham for a smoky twist.
– Experiment with different types of cheeses, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack.
– Include some chopped spinach or kale for a nutritious boost.
Tips
Here are a few tips to help you make the perfect Chicken Pasta Bake:
– Cook the pasta al dente to ensure it doesn’t become mushy during the baking process.
– Season the chicken well before cooking to enhance its flavor.
– Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a richer taste.
– Allow the pasta bake to cool for a few minutes before serving to prevent burning your mouth.
Conclusion
Chicken Pasta Bake with Scratch-Made White Sauce is a comforting and satisfying dish that will impress your family and friends. The combination of tender chicken, al dente pasta, and creamy white sauce creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. With the flexibility to add your own variations and the helpful tips provided, you can easily customize this recipe to suit your preferences. So, don’t wait any longer – head to the kitchen and start cooking up this delicious meal!
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the Chicken Pasta Bake ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just make sure to cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Absolutely! Allow the leftovers to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven until heated through.
What can I serve with Chicken Pasta Bake?
This dish is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a side salad or some garlic bread to complete the meal.
Chicken Pasta Bake with Scratch-Made White Sauce
A comforting and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken, al dente penne pasta, and a creamy scratch-made white sauce, baked to perfection with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients
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1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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1 pound penne pasta
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2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
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1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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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
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Fresh parsley for garnish
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4 tablespoons unsalted butter
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1/4 cup all-purpose flour
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2 cups whole milk
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Directions
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season and cook the chicken, then shred and set aside.
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Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
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Melt butter in a saucepan, add flour and whisk, pour in milk gradually, whisk until thickened, add garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat.
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Combine pasta, shredded chicken, and white sauce in a bowl. Mix well and transfer to a greased baking dish. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan.
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Bake in preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with parsley before serving.
