This Creamy Chicken and Mozzarella Penne Bake is a comforting and indulgent dish that’s perfect for a hearty family meal. The combination of creamy cheese sauce, tender pasta, and crispy chicken creates a rich, satisfying dish that everyone will love. Baked to golden perfection with a generous topping of mozzarella cheese, this bake is sure to be a hit at your dinner table.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients:
- For the Pasta and Sauce:
- 400g penne pasta
- 400g white sauce (béchamel or Alfredo)
- 300g cream cheese
- 250g mozzarella cheese, grated
- 400ml fresh cream
- 400ml chicken broth
- 100g Parmesan cheese, grated
- 80g unsalted butter
- 4 teaspoons garlic paste
- 1 pinch salt
- 1 pinch black pepper
- 1 pinch dried parsley
- For the Topping:
- 200g mozzarella cheese, grated
- 1 breaded fried chicken fillet
- Fresh parsley, to taste
Directions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Boil the penne pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a large pan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the garlic paste and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the chicken broth and fresh cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Add the cream cheese, stirring until smooth and fully combined.
- Season the Sauce:
- Mix in the white sauce, grated mozzarella (250g), grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and dried parsley. Stir until the cheeses have melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Combine the Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked penne pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly.
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Slice the breaded fried chicken fillet into strips or pieces.
- Assemble the Dish:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Pour the pasta and sauce mixture into a baking dish. Top with the remaining 200g of grated mozzarella cheese and the sliced fried chicken.
- Bake:
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese on top is golden and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve hot.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Pair with a light white wine or sparkling water to complement the creamy flavors.
Cooking Tips:
- To avoid clumping, make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature before adding it to the sauce.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a slight kick.
- If the sauce is too thick, adjust the consistency by adding more chicken broth or cream.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Cream Cheese and Mozzarella: Provide calcium and protein.
- Chicken: A good source of lean protein.
- Pasta: Offers carbohydrates for energy.
Dietary Information:
- Contains Dairy: Not suitable for dairy-free diets.
- Can be made gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure the breaded chicken is gluten-free.
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 650 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 40g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Calcium: 350mg
Storage:
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: The baked pasta can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Rich and creamy with a satisfying blend of cheeses and savory chicken.
- Easy to prepare and perfect for feeding a crowd.
- Bakes up beautifully with a golden, bubbly cheese topping.
Conclusion:
This Creamy Chicken and Mozzarella Penne Bake is a delightful comfort food that combines creamy cheese sauce with tender pasta and crispy chicken. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. The golden, melted cheese on top adds an irresistible crunch, making every bite a treat. Enjoy this hearty and delicious dish that’s sure to become a favorite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute penne with any pasta shape like ziti, fusilli, or rigatoni. - Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to a day in advance and bake it just before serving. - Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken instead of breaded chicken fillet?
Absolutely, rotisserie chicken is a convenient alternative. - What if I don’t have white sauce?
You can use a homemade béchamel sauce or Alfredo sauce instead. - Can I make this dish dairy-free?
You can use dairy-free cheese and cream substitutes to adapt the recipe. - How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through, or in the microwave if you’re in a hurry. - Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, it freezes well. Ensure it’s stored in an airtight container and thawed before reheating. - Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Yes, adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms can enhance the dish. - What can I use instead of garlic paste?
Minced garlic or garlic powder can be used as substitutes. - Can I use a different cheese for the topping?
Yes, cheddar, gouda, or fontina cheese would work well as alternatives.