Satisfy your craving for comfort food with this Cheesy Chicken Pasta Bake with Tomato Sauce. A rich, hearty dish featuring tender chicken fillets, al dente pasta, and a flavorful tomato sauce, topped with gooey mozzarella cheese. This recipe is easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for the week. The addition of fresh parsley and a blend of spices ensures a deliciously aromatic meal that will quickly become a household favorite.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• Chicken fillet – 2 pieces (about 300-400 g)
• Flour – 2 tbsp (for dredging)
• Salt and black pepper – to taste

For the Sauce:

• Shallot – 1 piece, finely chopped
• Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
• Carrot – 1 medium-sized, grated
• Tomato puree – 400 ml
• Olive oil – 2 tbsp
• Paprika – 1 tsp
• Sugar – 1 tsp (to balance acidity)
• Salt and black pepper – to taste

For the Pasta:

• Pasta – 250 g (penne or fusilli work well)
• Mozzarella cheese – 125 g, shredded or sliced

For Garnish:

• Parsley – a handful, chopped

Steps to Make:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken fillets dry and season both sides with salt and black pepper.
2. Dredge the fillets in flour, ensuring an even coating.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden. Remove and set aside to cool. Once cooled, slice into strips or bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Make the Tomato Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the chopped shallot until translucent.
2. Add the minced garlic and grated carrot, cooking for 2-3 minutes until softened.
3. Pour in the tomato puree and stir well. Season with paprika, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

1. While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken pieces, and tomato sauce. Mix until everything is well-coated.
3. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and evenly spread it out. Top with mozzarella cheese slices or shredded mozzarella.

Step 5: Bake and Serve

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden.
2. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy hot with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):

• Calories: ~450 kcal
• Protein: 28 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Fat: 15 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Sodium: 550 mg

FAQs:

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! This recipe works well with penne, fusilli, rigatoni, or even spaghetti.

2. Can I use store-bought tomato sauce instead of puree?

Absolutely. If using store-bought sauce, adjust the seasoning to ensure the flavor is balanced.

3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant for a delicious vegetarian version.

Tips for Perfect Cheesy Chicken Pasta Bake:

1. Cook Pasta Al Dente: Slightly undercook the pasta since it will continue cooking in the oven.
2. Add Spice: If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes or chili powder into the tomato sauce.
3. Use Fresh Mozzarella: Fresh mozzarella melts beautifully and adds a creamy texture.
4. Make It Creamy: For a richer sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese before mixing with the pasta.

Storage Tips:

1. Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
2. Freezing: Assemble the dish but don’t bake it. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 1 month. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.

Conclusion:

This Cheesy Chicken Pasta Bake with Tomato Sauce is the perfect blend of hearty, cheesy, and savory flavors. The tender chicken and al dente pasta are beautifully coated in a rich tomato sauce and topped with gooey mozzarella. Whether it’s for a family dinner, a potluck, or meal prep, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy everyone at the table. Try it today and enjoy the comforting taste of homemade goodness!