Description
Creamy Baked Pasta with Chicken, Bacon, and Cheese
Ingredients:
For the Pasta:
8 oz penne pasta
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
For the Sauce:
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup cream cheese
1 tbsp butter
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Toppings:
4 slices cooked bacon (crumbled)
1/4 cup chopped green onions
Instructions:
Prepare the Chicken:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C)
.
Season the chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper
.
Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes on each side until fully cooked. Remove and slice into strips
.
Cook the Pasta:
Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside
.
Make the Sauce:
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat
. Add the heavy cream, chicken broth, and cream cheese. Stir to combine and let it simmer until the cream cheese has melted and the sauce thickens
.
Stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth
. Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste
.
Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sliced chicken, and creamy cheese sauce. Stir to coat the pasta evenly
.
Bake the Pasta:
Transfer the pasta mixture into a baking dish or oven-safe skillet. Top with crumbled bacon and additional cheese if desired
.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly
.
Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot!
Enjoy Your Creamy Baked Pasta!
A rich and comforting dish with tender chicken, crispy bacon, and gooey melted cheese. Perfect for a satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for perfect results. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season and pan-sear the chicken breasts until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let them rest for 5 minutes before slicing to keep them juicy. While the chicken cooks, boil the pasta until al dente, as it will soften further in the oven. For the sauce, melt the butter and slowly whisk in the cream, broth, and cubed cream cheese over medium-low heat to prevent curdling. Once smooth, gradually add the shredded cheeses, stirring constantly until fully melted before adding seasonings. Combine everything in the baking dish, ensuring the pasta is fully coated.
Serving Suggestions
This rich pasta is a complete meal but pairs wonderfully with lighter sides. Serve it with a crisp garden salad tossed in a vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. Garlic bread or a simple roasted vegetable medley, like broccoli or asparagus, also makes an excellent accompaniment. For a casual gathering, serve directly from the oven-safe skillet at the table.
How-to Summary
In brief: Cook and slice seasoned chicken. Boil penne until al dente. Create a creamy cheese sauce by melting butter, cream, broth, and cheeses together. Combine pasta, chicken, and sauce in a baking dish. Top with bacon and extra cheese. Bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes until bubbly. Garnish with green onions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes. Assemble the pasta up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
What can I use instead of heavy cream? For a slightly lighter version, half-and-half or whole milk mixed with 1 tablespoon of flour can work, though the sauce will be less rich.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave with a splash of milk or covered in the oven at 350°F to restore creaminess.
Can I use a different pasta shape? Absolutely. Rigatoni, fusilli, or shells are great alternatives as their shapes hold the creamy sauce well.
Is it possible to use pre-cooked chicken? Yes, about 2 cups of shredded rotisserie or leftover grilled chicken works perfectly. Simply fold it in with the sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcooking the pasta initially, as it will turn mushy after baking. Do not add shredded cheese to a boiling sauce; use low heat to melt it gradually to prevent a grainy texture. Ensure your sauce is adequately seasoned before combining, as the pasta will dilute the flavor. Finally, do not skip letting the baked pasta rest for 5 minutes after removing it from the oven; this allows the sauce to set slightly for cleaner serving.
Conclusion
This creamy baked pasta with chicken, bacon, and cheese is the ultimate comfort food, combining simple ingredients into a decadent and satisfying meal. By following the step-by-step guide and tips provided, you can easily avoid common pitfalls and achieve a perfectly creamy, bubbly result every time. It’s a versatile dish perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests. Enjoy the delicious, hearty flavors of this classic combination.