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A delicious Cheesy Chicken Pasta Bake is shown as the featured image for this recipe.

Cheesy Chicken Pasta Bake Ultimate

This ultimate cheesy chicken pasta bake features tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a creamy cheese sauce, all topped with a golden-brown panko crust. It's a comforting and satisfying dish that's perfect for a family meal.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 650
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • 1 lb pasta penne, rotini, or farfalle
  • Salt for pasta water
  • 4 tbsp butter
  • 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups milk whole milk or 2% recommended
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp nutmeg optional
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp melted butter
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • large pot
  • Saucepan
  • whisk
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • small bowl
  • measuring cups and spoons
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
  3. Add chicken and season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  4. Cook until chicken is cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside.
  5. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  6. Add pasta and cook according to package directions, but subtract 2 minutes (it should be slightly undercooked).
  7. Drain the pasta well.
  8. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
  9. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, until a smooth paste forms (this is a roux).
  10. Gradually whisk in milk, ensuring no lumps form.
  11. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
  12. Reduce heat to low and stir in salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
  13. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
  14. Add the cooked pasta and cooked chicken to the cheese sauce. Stir to combine, ensuring all pasta is coated in sauce.
  15. Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
  16. In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan cheese.
  17. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the pasta bake.
  18. Bake in preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the cheese sauce is bubbly.
  19. Let the pasta bake rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

For best results, use freshly grated cheese. You can substitute other types of pasta or cheese to your liking. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave. Add vegetables like broccoli or peas for extra nutrients.