Creamy Chicken Penne Pasta Bake: Your Go-To Comfort Dish

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Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

Posted on 15 July 2024

There’s nothing quite like a creamy, cheesy pasta bake to make a meal feel special. Creamy Chicken Penne Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender pasta, juicy chicken, fresh vegetables, and a rich, creamy sauce, all topped with bubbling melted mozzarella. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or looking to impress at a potluck, this recipe will hit all the right notes. It’s simple to make, satisfying, and perfect for any occasion.

Why Creamy Chicken Penne Pasta Bake Is a Must-Try

Perfect Comfort Food: Rich, creamy, and cheesy, this dish brings warmth and happiness to every bite.
Balanced Meal: With protein, carbs, and veggies all in one dish, it’s a complete meal.
Customizable Recipe: You can easily add or swap ingredients to suit your taste preferences.
Make-Ahead Option: It’s great for meal prep or preparing in advance for busy days.
Kid-Friendly: The mild, creamy flavors make it a favorite for kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this indulgent dish:

Ingredient	Quantity
Penne rigate pasta	300 g
Onion, finely chopped	1
Garlic, minced	3 cloves
Chicken fillet, bite-sized	600 g
Raw sweet pepper, chopped	1
Tomato sauce	400 g
Butter	50 g
Flour	50 g
Milk	600 ml
Hard mozzarella cheese, shredded	150 g
Vegetable oil	As needed
Salt	To taste
Ground black pepper	To taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

**1. Preheat

1. Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready to bake once the dish is assembled.

2. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente, following the instructions on the package.
Drain the pasta and set it aside.

3. Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables

Heat a small amount of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until the onion turns 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, or until the pepper softens.

4. Add the Tomato Sauce

Pour the tomato sauce into the skillet with the chicken and vegetables.
Stir well to combine all the ingredients and allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes.
Remove the skillet from heat and set it aside.

5. Make the Creamy Sauce

In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the flour and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to form a smooth roux.
Gradually pour in the milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
Continue stirring until the mixture thickens into a smooth, creamy sauce.
Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper.

6. Combine the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken and vegetable mixture, and the creamy sauce.
Stir gently to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated in the sauce.

7. Assemble the Pasta Bake

Grease a baking dish with cooking spray or vegetable oil.
Pour the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top, covering the entire surface.

8. Bake

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbling, and golden brown on top.

9. Rest and Serve

Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired, and serve warm. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy pasta bake!

Why This Recipe Stands Out

Rich, Velvety Sauce: The creamy white sauce is the perfect contrast to the tangy tomato base.
Golden Cheese Topping: Who doesn’t love a bubbling, golden layer of melted mozzarella?
Balanced Texture: Tender pasta, juicy chicken, and soft peppers create a harmonious bite every time.
Easily Adjustable: Add more veggies, use a different protein, or change the cheese to make it your own.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	480 kcal
Protein	36 g
Carbohydrates	40 g
Fat	18 g
Fiber	3 g

Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on portion size and ingredient brands used.

Tips for the Best Creamy Chicken Penne Pasta Bake

Undercook the Pasta Slightly: Pasta will continue to cook in the oven, so cook it just shy of al dente.
Shred Cheese Freshly: Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly due to added starches. Use fresh mozzarella for the best texture.
Use Full-Fat Milk: For a richer sauce, go for whole milk or even cream.
Make Ahead: Assemble the dish the night before, refrigerate it, and bake it fresh when ready to serve.
Add Herbs: Incorporate Italian seasoning, oregano, or basil into the tomato sauce for extra flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is perfect for holding the sauce, you can substitute it with rigatoni, ziti, or fusilli.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and assemble the dish up to a day in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate. Bake it fresh when ready to serve.

3. What other proteins can I use?
You can substitute chicken with turkey, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

4. Can I freeze Creamy Chicken Penne Pasta Bake?
Yes! Freeze the fully assembled dish (before baking) in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

5. Can I make it healthier?
For a lighter version, use whole-grain pasta, low-fat milk, and reduce the cheese. Add extra vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms.

6. How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Final Thoughts: Indulgence Made Easy

Creamy Chicken Penne Pasta Bake is a dish that brings people together. Its comforting flavors, rich textures, and easy preparation make it a go-to for any occasion. Whether you’re planning a family dinner or a meal for entertaining, this pasta bake is guaranteed to impress.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and enjoy the magic of this creamy, cheesy masterpiece. Don’t forget to share it with loved ones—it’s too good to keep to yourself! Happy cooking!