Creamy Chicken Piccata Pasta Bake Recipe

 

Creamy Chicken Piccata Pasta Bake Recipe

This Creamy Chicken Piccata Pasta Bake is a rich and satisfying dish that blends the flavors of Italy with the comfort of a warm, cheesy bake. Tender chicken, flavorful pasta, and a creamy sauce are topped with melted mozzarella cheese and crispy breadcrumbs. This creates a dish that's both indulgent and satisfying. It's perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night with family.

 

Why You'll Love This 

You'll love this Creamy Chicken Piccata Pasta Bake recipe because it's creamy, cheesy, and truly delicious. The combination of tender chicken, flavorful pasta, and rich sauce balances perfectly with the crispy breadcrumbs and melted mozzarella cheese. Plus, it's easy to make and serves a crowd.

 

Preparation Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Total Time: 45-50 minutes

Servings: 4 people

Difficulty Level: Medium

Ingredients 

·       8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli, or farfalle) 

·       1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces. 

·       2 tablespoons of butter 

·       2 cloves garlic, minced. 

·       1 cup of chicken broth 

·       1/2 cup heavy cream 

·       1 tablespoon Dijon mustard 

·       1 teaspoon dried thyme 

·       Salt and pepper, to taste 

·       1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese 

·       1/2 cup of breadcrumbs 

·       Fresh parsley, chopped (optional) 

Tools 

·       Large pot 

·       Saucepan 

·       Colander 

·       9x13 inch baking dish 

·       Measuring cups and spoons 

 

Directions 

Step 1 

Cook the Pasta 

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. 

2. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. 

3. Drain and set aside. 

Step 2 

Prepare the Chicken 

1. In a large saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. 

2. Add the chicken to the saucepan and cook until browned and cooked through. 

3. Remove the chicken from the saucepan and set aside. 

Step 3 

Make the Sauce 

1. In the same saucepan, add 1 tablespoon of butter remaining. 

2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. 

3. Add the chicken broth, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and thyme to the saucepan. 

4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until slightly thickened. 

5. Stir in the cooked chicken and season with salt and pepper to taste. 

Step 4 

Assemble the Pasta Bake 

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F. 

2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken and sauce mixture, and shredded mozzarella cheese. 

3. Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9x13-inch baking dish. 

4. Top the pasta with additional shredded mozzarella cheese and breadcrumbs. 

Step 5 

Bake Pasta 

1. Bake the pasta in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. 

 

Approximate Macronutrient Breakdown (per serving) 

v  Calories: 500-550 

v  Protein: 35-40g 

v  Fat: 25-30g 

v  Carbohydrates: 30-35g 

 

Serve the pasta bake hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley. You can also serve it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. 

Tips and Variations 

·       Use leftover chicken or turkey for a quick and tasty option. 

·       Add some diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition. 

·       Try different types of cheese, like Parmesan or Gruyère, for a unique taste. 

·       Serve the pasta bake with a side of steamed vegetables or a green salad for a balanced meal. 

 

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? 

Yes, you can assemble the pasta bake ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it for later use. 

2. What type of pasta is best for this recipe? 

Penne, fusilli, or farfalle work well, but you can use any pasta you like. 

3. Can I customize the recipe with other ingredients? 

Yes, feel free to adjust the ingredients to match your taste and dietary needs. 

4. Can I serve this pasta bake as a main course? 

Yes, this pasta bake makes a great main course, especially with a side salad or garlic bread. 

5. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker? 

Yes, you can prepare this in a slow cooker. Just assemble the pasta bake and cook on low for 2-3 hours. 

6. Can I freeze this pasta bake? 

Yes, you can freeze this pasta bake for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to serve.