Quick and Delicious Pasta Bake

This quick and delicious pasta bake is a simple yet flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion. It's a delightful blend of tender pasta and succulent chicken that makes for a satisfying meal. The rich flavors are further enhanced by a creamy mayonnaise layer and a sprinkle of grated cheese. With a hint of lemon juice, this dish gets a refreshing zest, making it absolutely irresistible. You only need a handful of ingredients, most of which you probably already have in your kitchen. This pasta bake is an excellent choice for busy weeknights when you want something homemade without spending hours in the kitchen. It's loved by children and adults alike, making it a family favorite. Serve it with a side salad or garlic bread, and you have a complete, comforting meal ready to enjoy. Plus, the leftovers taste just as good! Let's dive into this delicious recipe.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 500 g pasta
• 500 g chicken breast
• Cheese (preferably Russian cheese)
• Mayonnaise (French - Provence style)
• 1/2 lemon

Spices and Flavorings:

• Pepper and garlic salt
• Butter (for greasing the pan)

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Begin by preheating your oven to 180–200 degrees Celsius. This step ensures that the oven is ready when your dish is assembled.
2. Slice the chicken breast into strips or cubes, depending on your preference. Make sure the pieces are roughly the same size for even cooking.
3. Heat a pan over medium heat and add a little oil. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces.
4. Season the chicken with garlic salt and pepper. Adjust the amount according to your taste preferences, and stir frequently for even cooking.
5. Continue cooking the chicken until it’s golden brown and cooked through. This usually takes about 7-10 minutes.
6. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the pasta.
7. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. It's important not to overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
8. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside, allowing excess water to evaporate.
9. Take a suitable baking dish and generously grease it with butter to prevent sticking.
10. Add the cooked pasta and chicken pieces to the baking dish, mixing them evenly.
11. Squeeze the juice from half a lemon over the mixture. This adds freshness and a slight tang to the dish.
12. Spread a layer of mayonnaise over the pasta and chicken, ensuring it's evenly coated. This will create a creamy texture when baked.
13. Grate your choice of cheese over the dish. Ensure an even layer so that every bite has that cheesy goodness.
14. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven.
15. Bake the pasta at 180-200 degrees Celsius for about 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
16. Once cooked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
17. Serve with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.
18. Enjoy your delicious and comforting pasta bake!
19. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread for an added treat.
20. Savor the wonderful flavors and have a great meal with family or friends!

Tips

• Cheese Options: If Russian cheese is not available, you can substitute it with mozzarella or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
• Pasta Type: Use any pasta shape you have on hand, such as penne, fusilli, or rigatoni.
• Spice Level: Adjust the spices to suit your taste. Add more garlic salt for stronger flavor or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the chicken and pasta in advance and store them in the fridge for a speedy assembly later on.

Nutrition

• Calories: Approximately 650 per serving
• Protein: 30 g
• Fats: 25 g
• Carbohydrates: 70 g

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Swap out the chicken for seasonal vegetables such as bell peppers and zucchini. Add a can of drained chickpeas for protein.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free cheese alternative and a vegan mayonnaise option to cater to dairy-free diets.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve this pasta bake with a fresh green salad drizzled with balsamic dressing for a complete meal.
• A side of garlic bread or herbed focaccia pairs beautifully, soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a burst of fresh flavor and color.

Best Places

1. Pasta House - Known for its authentic pasta dishes and warm ambiance. Location: 123 Pasta Lane, Rome, Italy.
2. Macaroni Cheese Cafe - Specializing in various cheese-infused pasta recipes. Location: 456 Noodle Street, Paris, France.
3. The Chicken Bake Co - Famous for unique chicken pasta bakes. Location: 789 Poultry Ave, New York, USA.
4. Baked Pasta Delight - Offers a delightful range of baked pasta options. Location: 321 Oven Rd, London, UK.
5. Mamma's Pasta Kitchen - Family-friendly with delicious home-style pasta bakes. Location: 654 Mamma Mia Dr, Naples, Italy.
6. Creamy Delights Bistro - Known for creamy and flavorful pasta dishes. Location: 987 Saucy Blvd, Sydney, Australia.
7. Pasta Perfection - Offers customizable pasta bakes with various toppings. Location: 111 Perfection St, Toronto, Canada.
8. The Cheesy Nook - Offers a range of cheese-laden dishes, including pasta bakes. Location: 222 Cheese Ct, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
9. Baked Italian Kitchen - Known for their traditional baked pasta and a cozy atmosphere. Location: 333 Italian Way, Venice, Italy.
10. Noodle & Cheese Haven - A paradise for noodle and cheese lovers. Location: 444 Noodle Rd, San Francisco, USA.