Comfort food is a staple in many households, and there’s nothing quite as satisfying as a hearty, creamy pasta dish. Introducing the Cheesy Chicken in Blankets Pasta Bake—an irresistible blend of flavors and textures that will have you and your family coming back for seconds! This recipe doesn’t just deliver on taste; it’s an absolute breeze to make. With tender chicken enveloped in a velvety cheese sauce and layered with pasta, it’s the perfect dish for family dinners, potlucks, or even those cozy nights in. What’s more, this versatile recipe can easily be adjusted to suit your taste, making it a go-to in your kitchen repertoire!
This Cheesy Chicken in Blankets Pasta Bake is all about the creamy, cheesy goodness. You’ll relish each mouthful of tender pasta mixed with shredded chicken, enveloped in a lusciously creamy sauce, and topped with a heavenly cheese blend that melts into a golden crust as it bakes. Not only is it delicious, but it also makes for fantastic leftovers, which means you can enjoy the comforting flavors all week long. Plus, it’s customizable! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the cheese to suit your preferences. Get ready to fall in love with this fantastic recipe that’s sure to impress everyone at the dinner table!
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Chicken in Blankets Pasta Bake
- Convenience: Whip it up quickly and easily, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to even the pickiest eaters.
- Flavor-Packed: A delightful combination of cheeses and spices enhances the taste.
- Make Ahead: Ideal for meal prep or leftovers; it stays delicious even the next day.
- Versatile: Easily modify by adding veggies or changing the types of cheese.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into cooking this delicious dish, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather the needed tools. Start by ensuring your workspace is clean and organized, as this will help streamline the cooking process. You’ll need a large mixing bowl for combining the pasta and other ingredients, a 9×13 baking dish for baking, and a reliable spatula or wooden spoon for mixing.
Once your ingredients are ready, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Greasing the baking dish beforehand will ensure your cheesy pasta bake doesn’t stick. Make sure to have your measuring cups and spoons ready for accuracy as you gather all the ingredients listed. Bonus tip: If you opt for rotisserie chicken, shredding it beforehand will save time and effort. Now that your workspace is configured, you’re ready to assemble this comforting dish!
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne or ziti), cooked al dente
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
To kick things off, begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is warming up, grab your 9×13 inch baking dish and generously grease it with cooking spray or butter. This is crucial to prevent the cheesy pasta from sticking to the dish during baking.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add your cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and softened cream cheese. Then, pour in the heavy cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently mix everything together until all ingredients are well combined. Make sure the chicken and pasta are evenly coated with the creamy mixture.
Step 3: Transfer to Baking Dish
Once your pasta mixture is thoroughly mixed, pour it into the prepared baking dish. Spread the mixture evenly using your spatula, ensuring every bit of pasta and chicken is paired with the creamy goodness. This even distribution is key to achieving that perfect bake.
Step 4: Layer the Cheeses
Now comes the fun part—topping your pasta bake. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella, cheddar cheese, and grated parmesan generously over the top of the pasta mixture. This layer of cheese will melt and create a luscious, golden crust as it bakes. Don’t be shy; more cheese means more flavor!
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and let it bake uncovered for about 25 to 30 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want the cheese on top to be bubbly and slightly golden brown. This beautiful browning process adds a crispy texture to the dish.
Step 6: Finishing Touches
If you desire an extra crispy topping, switch on the broiler for the last 2 to 3 minutes of cooking. Watch closely to avoid burning! Once you remove it from the oven, let the pasta bake rest for about 5 minutes; this allows the sauce to set and makes serving easier. Finally, garnish with fresh parsley before diving in!
Variations
- Protein: Swap out chicken for turkey, or try using cooked sausage for a bit of spice.
- Vegetables: Incorporate broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
- Spices: Enhance the flavor by adding Italian seasoning, paprika, or crushed red pepper flakes for some heat.
Cooking Notes
- Always use cooked chicken to save time—rotisserie chicken works wonderfully.
- For maximum creaminess, consider shredding your own cheese instead of using pre-shredded options.
- If you prefer a crunch, add a topping of breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter before baking.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side salad for a well-rounded meal.
- Pair with garlic bread for a hearty touch.
Tips
- To make the dish gluten-free, substitute pasta with gluten-free alternatives.
- For an even creamier dish, add a splash of chicken broth along with the heavy cream.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 650
- Protein: 45g
- Sodium: 800mg
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne or ziti are recommended, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer.
Is it necessary to shred my own cheese?
Shredding your own cheese helps with melting and gives a creamier texture. Pre-shredded cheese may not melt as well due to added anti-caking agents.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it, and store it in the fridge. Bake it when you’re ready to serve.
What vegetables can be added to this recipe?
Broccoli, spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers are excellent additions that boost nutrition without compromising flavor.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Cheesy Chicken in Blankets Pasta Bake is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that brings families together. With its creamy texture, mouthwatering cheeses, and tender chicken, every bite reminds you of home-cooked goodness. This dish not only satisfies hunger but also warms the soul. Whether you’re making it for a cozy weekday dinner or a festive gathering, it’s bound to be a hit. We encourage you to try this recipe, add your creative spin, and share your experiences in the comments. Enjoy every cheesy, savory bite!
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Cheesy Chicken in Blankets Pasta Bake
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
Comfort food is a staple in many households, and there’s nothing quite as satisfying as a hearty, creamy pasta dish. Introducing the Cheesy Chicken in Blankets Pasta Bake—an irresistible blend of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne or ziti), cooked al dente
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, heavy cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Layer shredded mozzarella, cheddar cheese, and grated parmesan on top.
- Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- For an extra crispy topping, broil for the last 2 to 3 minutes. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving and garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
Consider using rotisserie chicken for convenience and shredding your own cheese for maximum creaminess.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 650 kcal
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Protein: 45 g