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Creamy Chicken Pasta Bake – The Ultimate Comfort Food

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This Creamy Chicken Pasta Bake is the perfect combination of comfort and flavor! Juicy chicken mince, tender pasta, and a rich, cheesy cream sauce come together to create a dish that’s satisfying and easy to make. Baked to golden perfection, this casserole is a family-friendly meal that’s great for weeknights or meal prep. Serve it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete and delicious dinner!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Pasta Bake:

  • 250g small noodles
  • 400g chicken mince
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 paprika, diced
  • 2 celery sticks, chopped
  • 200g tomato paste
  • 8 cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • ½ tsp ground black pepper
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh parsley to taste
  • 500g cream (12% fat)
  • 20g flour
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 100g grated cheese

Instructions

  • Cook the Pasta: Boil the noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add chopped onion, garlic, paprika, and celery. Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
  • Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken mince, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and cook until browned.
  • Add Tomato Sauce: Stir in the tomato paste and cherry tomatoes. Cook for another 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
  • Make the Cream Sauce: In a separate pan, heat olive oil and whisk in the flour. Slowly pour in the cream, stirring constantly until smooth and slightly thickened.
  • Combine Everything: In a baking dish, mix the pasta, chicken mixture, and cream sauce. Stir well to combine.
  • Top with Cheese & Bake: Sprinkle grated cheese over the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
  • Serve & Enjoy: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.

Notes

  • Pasta Choice: Small noodles work best, but you can use penne, fusilli, or macaroni.
  • Make Ahead: Assemble the dish and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
  • Freezing: Freeze before baking and cook from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 30–35 minutes.
  • Vegetable Additions: Try adding spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrients.
  • Cheese Variations: Swap Parmesan, mozzarella, or cheddar for a different flavor.

Find it online: https://friendlywell.com/creamy-chicken-pasta-bake-the-ultimate-comfort-food/