Chicken and Vegetable Baked Pasta

This delightful recipe combines tender chicken strips and a medley of frozen vegetables in a delicious tomato sauce, all baked together with pasta and topped with a gooey cheese and breadcrumb mixture. Perfect for family dinners or a gathering with friends, this dish is not only flavorful but also satisfying. The combination of rosemary-infused chicken and a rich, tangy tomato dressing enhances the taste of the delicate pasta. A quick and simple meal, it only takes a few minutes to prepare before letting the oven work its magic. The result is a comforting and hearty dish with layers of cheesy goodness. By using frozen vegetables, the dish becomes a convenient and easy-to-make option. This baked pasta is an excellent way to include vegetables in your meal and makes for a great lunch or dinner choice. Whether you are cooking for a crowd or a quiet evening at home, this recipe is sure to please.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

150 g small, delicate pasta
2 small chicken breast fillets
300 g frozen mixed vegetables
250 g tomato sauce
70 g cheese, grated
1 tbsp breadcrumbs
30 g butter

Spices and Sauces

A pinch of rosemary
Salt
Pepper

Preparation Time

35 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken breast fillets into thin strips to ensure they cook evenly and absorb the flavors well.
Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta in a pot of salted water following the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Chicken: In a heated skillet, add a splash of oil and sauté the chicken strips along with the chopped rosemary. Season with salt and pepper. Once cooked, remove from the pan.
Cook the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the frozen vegetables. Pour in the tomato sauce and a couple of tablespoons of water. Bring to a boil, then simmer the vegetables for about 5 minutes.
Combine Ingredients: Season the vegetable mixture with salt and pepper, then add the cooked chicken strips and drained pasta to the pan. Stir everything together until well mixed.
Prepare for Baking: Transfer the mixture into a baking dish. Sprinkle with grated cheese mixed with breadcrumbs. Dot the top with small pieces of butter for added richness.
Bake the Dish: Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Place the baking dish inside and bake for approximately 15 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbling.
Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, serve hot directly from the oven.

Tips

Substitutions: You can substitute the chicken with turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Cheese Variations: For a different flavor, try using Parmesan or mozzarella cheese.
Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of chili flakes to the tomato sauce for an extra kick.

Nutritions

Calories: Approximately 500 kcal per serving
Protein: 30 g
Fat: 20 g
Carbohydrates: 50 g

Variations

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta for those with dietary restrictions.
Vegan: Replace chicken with seitan and use vegan cheese.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a fresh green salad and a side of garlic bread for a complete meal.
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for added freshness.

Best Places

Osteria Francescana - A highly acclaimed restaurant serving creative takes on Italian classics. Location: Via Stella, 22, Modena, Italy.
Chez Panisse Café - Known for organic locally driven dishes, including pasta specials. Location: 1517 Shattuck Ave, Berkeley, USA.
Le Bernardin - Offers exquisite seafood and pasta dishes. Location: 155 W 51st St, New York, USA.
La Pergola - Features high-end Italian cuisine with a spectacular view. Location: Via Alberto Cadlolo, 101, Rome, Italy.
The Ledbury - Offers innovative dishes including delicious pasta variants. Location: 127 Ledbury Rd, London, United Kingdom.
Quay - Known for their luxurious dishes and elegant setting. Location: Upper Level, Overseas Passenger Terminal, The Rocks NSW, Sydney, Australia.
Narisawa - Offers unique blends of Japanese and international cuisine. Location: 2 Chome-6-15 Minamiaoyama, Minato City, Tokyo, Japan.
Noma - Famous for its nordic flavors and creative dishes. Location: Refshalevej 96, 1432 Copenhagen, Denmark.
El Celler de Can Roca - A family-run restaurant serving modern interpretations of classic Catalan cuisine. Location: Carrer de Can Sunyer, 48, Girona, Spain.
Attica - Offers innovative dishes with a focus on Australian flora and fauna. Location: 74 Glen Eira Rd, Ripponlea VIC, Melbourne, Australia.