Baked Chicken Pasta in a creamy sauce topped with cheese and herbs

Chicken Pasta Bake

ByCasey Monroe

why make this recipe

Chicken pasta bake is a comforting dish that combines juicy chicken, flavorful pasta, and a rich tomato sauce baked to perfection. It’s simple to make and ideal for family dinners or gatherings. The combination of chicken, bacon, and melted cheese creates a delicious meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken or vegetables in your fridge!

how to make Chicken Pasta Bake

Ingredients:

  • 500g / 1 lb chicken thighs, cut into small bite-size pieces (Note 1)
  • 1/2 tsp cooking/kosher salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 2 tsp Italian herb mix (any store-bought type)
  • 300g / 10oz rigatoni (or penne, elbow macaroni, shells, or similar)
  • 2 tsp salt (for cooking pasta)
  • 5 slices streaky bacon
  • 1/2 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp chili flakes / red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 cup chardonnay or other dry white wine (Note 2)
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 700g / 24oz tomato passata (Note 3)
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 tsp cooking/kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 3 tomatoes, cut into 8 wedges then halved
  • 2 big handfuls baby spinach (or bite-size kale)
  • 2 cups mozzarella, shredded
  • 1/2 cup (tightly packed) parmesan, finely shredded

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 180°C/350°F (160°C for fan ovens).
  2. Cook the pasta according to the package directions, using boiling water seasoned with 2 teaspoons of salt. Drain and rinse briefly under tap water, then set aside to cool while making the sauce.
  3. In a bowl, toss together the seasoned chicken ingredients.
  4. Put the bacon in a large non-stick pan without preheating. Turn the stove to medium-high. The fat will melt, cooking the bacon in its own fat. Cook until light golden, then remove to paper towels, leaving the fat in the pan. Once cooled, cut the bacon into 1 cm (1/3") pieces.
  5. In the same pan, add olive oil if needed to ensure you have at least 1 tablespoon of fat. Increase the heat to high. Cook the chicken for about 3 minutes until it’s golden on the outside but still a bit raw inside. Use a slotted spoon to remove it to a bowl.
  6. In the same pan, add the garlic and onion. Cook for 1 minute, then add chili flakes and oregano. Cook for another 2 minutes until the onion is translucent.
  7. Pour in the wine and let it simmer quickly for 1 to 2 minutes until most of the liquid evaporates. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute to enhance the flavor. Add the passata and use the water to rinse out the bottle. Combine with salt, pepper, and the chicken, including the juices. Mix and let it simmer for 5 minutes on medium heat.
  8. Add the baby spinach, tomatoes, pasta, and bacon to the pan. Toss everything well together.
  9. Transfer the mixture to a 23 x 33 cm (9 x 13") baking pan. Top with mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Bake for 25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and has golden spots.
  10. Allow it to stand for 5 minutes before serving!

how to serve Chicken Pasta Bake

Serve the chicken pasta bake hot, straight from the oven. It pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or some garlic bread. You might also want to offer additional grated cheese on the side for those who love an extra cheesy touch!

how to store Chicken Pasta Bake

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

tips to make Chicken Pasta Bake

  • For a spicier kick, add more chili flakes or fresh chopped chilies.
  • Feel free to mix in any vegetables you have on hand, like bell peppers or mushrooms.
  • For even more flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the garlic, salt, and herbs for a few hours before cooking.

variation

You can make this recipe with different types of pasta, like penne or shaped pasta, depending on your preference. Additionally, you can substitute chicken for other proteins, such as turkey or sausage.

FAQs

1. Can I use cooked chicken in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute cooked chicken. Just add it toward the end when mixing with the sauce to heat it through without overcooking.

2. How long does it take to bake?
The chicken pasta bake takes about 25 minutes to bake, but you should let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything in advance, assemble it in the baking dish, cover it, and store it in the fridge. Bake it just before serving.