Chicken Pasta Bake

Chicken Pasta Bake is a delicious and comforting casserole that combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a creamy sauce, all baked to perfection. This dish is a crowd-pleaser and perfect for weeknight dinners or potluck gatherings. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a satisfying and hearty meal that the whole family will enjoy.

Ingredients

• 8 oz. uncooked pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your preferred shape)
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded or diced
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp butter, melted (for the breadcrumb topping)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a saucepan, melt the 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth. Cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and bubbles.
5. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the garlic powder, dried basil, salt, and black pepper.
6. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and the creamy sauce. Mix well.
7. Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased baking dish.
8. Top the pasta with the shredded cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs.
9. Drizzle the melted 2 tbsp of butter over the breadcrumb topping.
10. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the top is golden brown.

Additional Tips

• For extra flavor, you can sauté some diced onions and garlic before making the sauce.
• Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations, such as mozzarella, Parmesan, or a blend.
• Add some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil for an extra burst of flavor.
• To make it a complete meal, consider serving it with a side salad or roasted vegetables.

Nutritional Value

One serving of this Chicken Pasta Bake (based on 6 servings) provides:

• Calories: Approximately 450
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 20g