Creamy Cheesy Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe
Nothing brings comfort to the table faster than a bubbling dish of creamy chicken pasta baked until golden on top. Each piece of pasta sinks into rich sauce while melted cheese stretches with every spoonful. Tender chicken adds weight to the dish without making it heavy which makes it ideal for both children and adults. It feels like a warm reward at the end of a long day.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity as it uses common ingredients yet delivers a taste that feels thoughtful. It suits lazy evenings movie nights and family dinners without effort. Once placed on the table it disappears in minutes.
Ingredients Needed
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories per serving |
|---|---|---|
| Cooked chicken shredded | 2 cups | 300 |
| Pasta of choice | 250 grams | 350 |
| Cream | 1 cup | 400 |
| Mozzarella cheese grated | 1 cup | 280 |
| Cheddar cheese grated | Half cup | 200 |
| Garlic paste | 1 teaspoon | 5 |
| Onion chopped | Half cup | 30 |
| Oil or butter | 1 tablespoon | 120 |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | 2 |
Step by Step Cooking Instructions
Cook the Pasta
Boil the pasta until soft yet still firm at the center. Drain and keep it aside.
Prepare the Sauce Base
Heat oil in a pan and cook onion until soft. Add garlic paste and stir for a moment.
Add Cream and Seasoning
Pour the cream into the pan and season with salt and pepper. Let it simmer gently.
Combine with Chicken
Add the shredded chicken into the sauce and mix well to coat every piece.
Build the Bake
Place the pasta in a baking dish and pour the creamy mixture over it. Stir gently to spread evenly.
Top and Bake
Sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar on top. Bake until the cheese melts and turns light brown.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
Add vegetables like corn peas or spinach for extra body. Replace chicken with tuna or leftover turkey. Use smoked cheese for a deeper aroma. Sprinkle chili flakes for a spicy kick. Mix breadcrumbs on top for slight crunch. Add tomato puree if craving a tangy edge.
Nutritional Information
This bake provides steady protein from chicken while the pasta gives long lasting energy. Cheese adds calcium that comforts both body and taste buds. Cream makes the dish filling so a small portion goes a long way.
It brings rich satisfaction without needing additional sides which makes it a complete meal on its own.
Serving Suggestion
Serve straight from the baking dish while the cheese is still stretching. Offer garlic bread on the side for dipping into the sauce. Pair with fresh salad to lighten the richness. Scoop with a deep spoon to keep layers intact. Sprinkle parsley on top for a burst of color. Serve with chilled drink to balance the warmth.
How to Store and Keep Fresh
Let it cool to room temperature before covering. Store in the fridge inside an airtight box. Reheat in the oven instead of microwave to restore crust. Add a splash of milk before heating if the sauce thickens. Consume within three days for best taste. Freeze in portions for quick future meals.
Conclusion
This creamy cheesy chicken pasta bake proves that comfort can be simple yet unforgettable. It takes humble ingredients and turns them into a dish that feels like home in every bite. The sauce clings to the pasta while the cheese seals everything in a warm blanket. It suits any season any mood and any appetite. It brings smiles without needing words. Once tried it remains in weekly rotation without question.
FAQs
Q1. Can I use store bought rotisserie chicken?
Yes it works perfectly and saves time while still giving strong flavor.
Q2. Can I prepare it in advance and bake later?
Yes assemble everything and keep it in the fridge then bake when needed.
Q3. Can I use milk instead of cream?
Milk can be used but the sauce may turn thin so add extra cheese to thicken.
