Savor the delightful blend of flavors in this Creamy Chicken Penne Pasta Bake. Featuring tender chicken, perfectly cooked penne, and a rich creamy sauce, all topped with melted mozzarella cheese, this dish is a great choice for family meals or celebrations. It’s bound to be a new favorite!
Ingredients
- 300 g penne rigate pasta
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 600 g chicken fillet, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 raw sweet pepper, chopped
- 400 g tomato sauce
- 50 g butter
- 50 g flour
- 600 ml milk
- 150 g hard mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Vegetable oil
- Salt and ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the penne pasta following the instructions on the package until it reaches an al dente texture. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables:
- Warm a small amount of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion becomes translucent.
- Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet. Season with salt and ground black pepper, and cook until the chicken is no longer pink.
- Stir in the chopped sweet pepper and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the pepper softens.
- Add the Tomato Sauce:
- Pour the tomato sauce into the skillet with the chicken and vegetables. Mix everything together thoroughly and allow it to simmer for approximately 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare the Creamy Sauce:
- In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat until it becomes liquid and smooth. Add the flour and stir continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a smooth roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens into a smooth, creamy sauce. Season with salt and a pinch of black pepper.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta, the chicken and tomato mixture, and the creamy sauce.
- Assemble the Bake:
- Place the pasta mixture into a baking dish coated with cooking spray. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly across the top.
- Bake:
- Put the baking dish into the oven that has been preheated and bake for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling, and the top turns a golden brown.
- Serve:
- Remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and enjoy your Creamy Chicken Penne Pasta Bake.
Conclusion
This Creamy Chicken Penne Pasta Bake is a delightful dish that combines rich, comforting flavors with the convenience of a one-dish meal. The tender chicken, flavorful tomato sauce, and creamy cheese sauce create a perfect harmony that will satisfy any craving. Serve this dish at your next family dinner or gathering, and watch it become an instant favorite.