Baked Creamy Chicken Pasta
If you’re in the mood for a rich, comforting dish that’s both easy to make and satisfying, Baked Creamy Chicken Pasta is the perfect choice.
This dish combines tender, shredded chicken with creamy sauce and pasta, all baked to golden perfection with a cheesy topping.
It’s a wonderful weeknight meal that can also impress guests during a dinner party.
Ingredients
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
8 oz penne or rigatoni pasta
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
2 tbsp butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp Italian seasoning
Instructions
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready when the pasta is assembled. Boil the pasta in a large pot of salted water according to the package instructions.
Drain the pasta, and set it aside. While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the heavy cream to the skillet, stirring it into the butter and garlic mixture. Let it simmer for a few minutes until the cream begins to thicken slightly.
Stir in the salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning, then add the shredded chicken. Mix everything together so the chicken is coated in the creamy sauce.
Once the sauce is well combined, add half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
Combine the cooked pasta with the creamy sauce, making sure the pasta is evenly coated. Transfer everything into a greased baking dish.
Top the pasta mixture with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, then place the baking dish into the preheated oven.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Remove from the oven, and allow the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving.
How to Make
Begin by preparing the pasta. Use a sturdy pasta shape, like penne or rigatoni, that will hold up well when baked and absorb.
the creamy sauce. Cooking the pasta al dente ensures it won’t become too soft after baking.
The creamy sauce comes together quickly, so don’t leave the stovetop while it’s simmering. The key is to let.
the cream reduce slightly before adding the cheese, as this thickens the sauce and ensures it’ll coat the pasta perfectly.
Shredded chicken is the star protein in this dish, but it can be made ahead of time or repurposed from leftovers.
If you have roasted or grilled chicken, it works just as well as boiled chicken for a richer flavor.
Don’t rush the baking process—let the dish bake long enough for the cheese to melt and form a bubbly, golden crust on top. This step adds a delicious texture contrast to the creamy pasta beneath.
For a healthier twist, you can use lighter ingredients such as low-fat cream, part-skim mozzarella, or even substitute
the butter with olive oil. These adjustments still result in a tasty dish, but with fewer calories.
If you want to make the dish even more flavorful, consider adding sautéed spinach or mushrooms to the sauce.
These vegetables add an earthy flavor that complements the creamy richness of the pasta.
Finally, once baked, let the dish cool for a few minutes to set the sauce. This makes it easier to serve and allows the flavors to meld together perfectly.
Variations
While this recipe is a classic, there are many ways to personalize it to your taste. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for some heat.
For a richer version, try using a mix of heavy cream and cream cheese to create an even thicker, creamier sauce. This adds a tangy note that balances out the richness of the cheeses.
If you’re a fan of vegetables, incorporate some sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, or even roasted tomatoes into the pasta for added color and flavor.
These vegetables work beautifully with the creamy sauce.
Try swapping the chicken for ground turkey, Italian sausage, or even shrimp for a different take on this baked pasta.
Each protein brings its unique flavor to the dish while maintaining the comforting essence of the recipe.
For a cheesy variation, add some ricotta cheese to the sauce before baking. The ricotta will melt into the pasta, creating a soft, creamy texture that pairs wonderfully with the mozzarella and Parmesan.
For a smoky flavor, try adding some cooked bacon or pancetta to the pasta. The crispy bits of bacon will lend a savory depth to the dish, making it even more satisfying.
If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, simply substitute the pasta with a gluten-free variety, and you’re good to go! The creamy sauce will pair perfectly with any gluten-free pasta.
Tips
Make sure to cook the pasta just shy of al dente, as it will continue to cook during the baking process. This will prevent it from becoming mushy.
To achieve a perfectly golden and bubbly top, use a combination of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Mozzarella melts beautifully, while Parmesan gives a nice crispness to the top.
If you don’t have heavy cream, you can substitute with half-and-half or a combination of milk and butter. The sauce won’t be as thick, but it will still be creamy.
When using leftover chicken, shred it into bite-sized pieces so it mixes evenly with the sauce and pasta. This ensures every bite is filled with chicken.
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice to the sauce before baking. The citrus brightens the richness of the dish and adds a refreshing contrast.
If you’re making this dish ahead of time, prepare it up to the baking step and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
If you’re preparing a larger batch, simply double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish. Ensure the pasta is evenly distributed to get the perfect texture all around.
Conclusion
Baked Creamy Chicken Pasta is a comforting and indulgent meal that’s both simple to make and full of flavor.
With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and cheesy topping, this dish is bound to become a favorite in your household.
Whether you follow the classic recipe or add your own variations, this dish is incredibly versatile and will always deliver delicious results. Perfect for any occasion, it’s sure to please anyone at your table.