cheesy chicken pasta bake recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
cheesy chicken pasta bake recipe
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The Best cheesy chicken pasta bake recipe

I’m so excited to share this cheesy chicken pasta bake recipe with you all. This dish has been a staple in our household for years, and for good reason.

It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a special weekend meal, this recipe never fails to impress.

And the best part? It’s incredibly versatile.

You can easily customize it to suit your family’s tastes and dietary needs. My kids love helping me prepare the ingredients, and my husband always requests seconds (or thirds!)

As for me, I adore the comforting feeling of coming home to a warm, satisfying meal that’s ready in under an hour. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken or veggies, reducing food waste and saving us money.

So go ahead, give this recipe a try, and let me know what you think! I’m confident you’ll become hooked just like we are.

Cheesy Chicken Pasta Bake

Cheesy Chicken Pasta Bake

4.5 from 765 votes

A comforting and creamy pasta bake loaded with tender chicken, a rich cheese sauce, and a golden, bubbly topping. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner and is sure to be a family favorite.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 550 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta and Chicken

12 oz penne pasta
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Cheese Sauce

2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup chicken broth
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp paprika
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

For the Topping

1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tbsp melted butter
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat, then add the penne pasta and cook until al dente, about 10 to 12 minutes.
3Drain the pasta and set it aside.
4While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5Season the chicken cubes with garlic powder, salt, and pepper, then add them to the hot skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes.
6Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
7In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
8Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to form a roux.
9Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth, then continue to cook, whisking frequently, until the sauce thickens and begins to bubble, about 5 to 7 minutes.
10Reduce the heat to low and add the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses to the sauce.
11Stir continuously until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
12Season with paprika and cayenne pepper, if using, then remove the saucepan from the heat.
13In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cooked chicken, and the cheese sauce.
14Stir gently until everything is evenly coated.
15Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and spread it into an even layer.
16In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and remaining Parmesan cheese until the crumbs are moistened.
17Sprinkle this topping evenly over the pasta mixture in the baking dish.
18Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the topping is golden brown and crispy.
19Remove the baking dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.
20This allows the bake to set slightly for easier serving.
21Serve hot and enjoy.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Large skillet
Medium saucepan
9×13 inch baking dish
Whisk
Mixing bowl

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 550 kcal🧈Total Fat: 28g💛Saturated Fat: 15g❤️Cholesterol: 120mg🧂Sodium: 850mg🌾Total Carbs: 40g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 35g

📝Notes

Tips: For a richer flavor, use a mix of your favorite melting cheeses like Gruyere or Monterey Jack. You can also add steamed broccoli or spinach to the bake for extra vegetables.

Watch Video Of How Cheesy Chicken Pasta Bake Works

This cheesy chicken pasta bake recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether it’s a quick weeknight meal or a special gathering with friends and family. Not only does it satisfy our taste buds, but it also makes meal prep and cleanup a breeze thanks to its straightforward ingredients and single-dish format.

And don’t even get me started on leftovers! Reheating individual portions is easy as pie (pun intended).

Simply toss them in the microwave or oven until heated through – voila! – your meal is ready in no time.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Chicken Pasta Bake

Q: What type of pasta is best for this recipe?

A: I prefer using penne or rotini for this cheesy chicken pasta bake, as they hold onto the sauce nicely and are easy to cook through. However, feel free to experiment with other shapes if you prefer!

Q: Can I use low-fat cheese instead of regular cheddar?

A: Absolutely! While I do love the richness of full-fat cheese, low-fat alternatives will still yield a deliciously creamy sauce without overpowering the dish. Just keep in mind that low-fat cheese may not melt as smoothly.

Q: How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?

A: The key is to cook your pasta al dente – not too hard, not too soft – before adding it to the casserole mixture. This will help maintain its texture even after baking.

Q: Can I substitute chicken with other proteins like beef or pork?

A: While chicken is my go-to choice for this recipe, you can definitely experiment with other meats if you prefer. Beef or pork work well when diced into small pieces and cooked until tender.

Q: What’s the ideal baking temperature for this casserole?

A: A moderate oven temperature of 350°F (175°C) is perfect for cooking this cheesy chicken pasta bake evenly throughout. Avoid high heat as it may cause the cheese to burn or bubble over.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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