Craving a hearty, comforting dish that melds delicious chicken, creamy sauce, and satisfying pasta? Look no further! The Top 1 Comforting Chicken Kiev Pasta Bake is an unbeatable choice for any night of the week. With its rich flavors, delightful textures, and simple preparation, this recipe has quickly become a beloved favorite in many households. As you gather your ingredients, get ready to experience a culinary hug that will warm your heart and fill your stomach.
Why We Love This Top 1 Comforting Chicken Kiev Pasta Bake Recipe to Try Tonight
This Chicken Kiev Pasta Bake is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of comfort food at its finest. Imagine tucking into a warm, cheesy pasta dish that not only boasts tender chicken but also a heavenly garlic butter sauce. The combination of creamy and crispy textures makes each bite a delightful experience. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe is versatile and satisfying, ensuring there’s something for everyone at the table. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish is bound to impress and make everyone feel at home.
Ingredients about Top 1 Comforting Chicken Kiev Pasta Bake Recipe to Try Tonight
- 2 large chicken breasts, cooked and shredded or diced (about 2½ cups)
- 12 oz (340g) cavatappi pasta or any short pasta
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1¾ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk (or half-and-half for extra creaminess)
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried dill (optional but traditional)
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter (for breadcrumbs)
- Optional: 1 teaspoon lemon zest for a fresher flavor profile
How to Make Top 1 Comforting Chicken Kiev Pasta Bake Recipe to Try Tonight Directions
To get started, you’ll want to cook your pasta according to the package instructions. It’s essential to keep an eye on it and stop cooking just shy of al dente, as the pasta will continue to cook while it’s baking in the oven. Once it’s perfectly tender, drain the pasta and set it aside for now.
Next, grab a medium saucepan and place it over medium heat. Melt the unsalted butter, allowing it to become bubbly and fragrant. Once the butter is melted, add in the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute. You want that delicious aroma to fill your kitchen! Stir in the all-purpose flour to create a roux, whisking constantly for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns a light golden color.
Now, slowly pour in the chicken broth while continuing to whisk vigorously. It’s crucial to do this step carefully to avoid lumps. After the broth is well integrated, pour in the milk, followed by the dried parsley, dried dill (if you’re using it), onion powder, and salt and pepper. Cook this lovely mixture while stirring frequently until the sauce thickens slightly—this should take about 4-5 minutes.
Once your sauce has thickened and is delightfully creamy, remove it from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and smooth. In a large mixing bowl or directly in your baking dish, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and the luscious garlic butter sauce. Mix everything well, ensuring that the pasta and chicken are evenly coated.
Now it’s time to build that golden crust! Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top of your pasta mixture. In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with olive oil or melted butter. Stir it together until all the breadcrumbs are coated, then sprinkle this mixture evenly across the cheese layer. This topping will give your dish an irresistible crunch reminiscent of classic Chicken Kiev.
Finally, you’re ready to bake! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the breadcrumb topping is golden brown, and you’ll see the cheese bubbling beneath it. Once done, resist the urge to dive right in—let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors settle and makes serving a breeze.
How to Serve Top 1 Comforting Chicken Kiev Pasta Bake Recipe to Try Tonight
When it comes to serving this Chicken Kiev Pasta Bake, you have many delightful options. First, consider portioning out generous servings onto plates so everyone can enjoy their share of crispy topping and creamy pasta. You might want to garnish each plate with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or even a touch of additional grated Parmesan for an extra flavor lift.
Pair this comforting bake with a simple side salad. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the dish, adding freshness and a bit of crunch. If you want to round out your meal, consider serving some crusty bread or garlic bread on the side—a perfect vessel for scooping up any remaining goodness on your plate.
Don’t forget the beverages! While this recipe doesn’t require any particular drink, a refreshing lemonade or sparkling water can complement the flavors nicely. If you’re planning for leftovers, this dish is great to keep and enjoy the next day, making it an ideal meal prep option.
Expert Tips: Top 1 Comforting Chicken Kiev Pasta Bake Recipe to Try Tonight
To ensure your Chicken Kiev Pasta Bake is nothing short of amazing, here are some expert tips to keep in mind.
- Cooking the Pasta: Make sure you cook the pasta just shy of al dente. This prevents it from becoming mushy during the baking process.
- Customize the Chicken: Feel free to use leftover rotisserie chicken or even turkey as a substitute for the chicken. The flavors will still blend beautifully!
- Add Veggies: For a nutritional boost, consider mixing in some cooked vegetables like spinach, peas, or broccoli. They’ll add color and extra nutrients without compromising the dish’s integrity.
- Breadcrumb Variants: For a different texture, you can use crushed crackers or even tortilla chips instead of panko. Each brings its unique crunch!
- Bake in Individual Portions: If you want to impress guests, you can bake this dish in individual ramekins for a lovely presentation.
How to Store Top 1 Comforting Chicken Kiev Pasta Bake Recipe to Try Tonight
Storing your Chicken Kiev Pasta Bake is simple and convenient. If you have leftovers, it’s best to let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
When you’re ready to indulge in your leftovers, you can reheat the dish in the oven at about 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or you can microwave it in individual portions. If you’re worried about the topping losing its crispness, consider adding a bit of fresh panko on top before reheating.
You can also freeze this dish if you anticipate longer storage. Simply place it in a freezer-safe container before freezing. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then follow the reheating instructions.
Variation of Top 1 Comforting Chicken Kiev Pasta Bake Recipe to Try Tonight
Don’t hesitate to get creative with this Chicken Kiev Pasta Bake! There are plenty of variations to try, making this dish your own.
- Cheesy Delight: If you’re a cheese lover, consider adding more types of cheese! Fontina or Gouda can introduce a delightful richness and flavor.
- Spice it Up: For a touch of heat, you can add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the garlic butter sauce.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs! Basil, chives, or oregano can add a refreshing twist to the dish, complementing the chicken beautifully.
- Whole Grain Pasta: For a healthier option, swap regular pasta for whole grain or gluten-free pasta. This adjustment allows you to enjoy your bake while catering to dietary preferences.
- Creamy Alternatives: Swap the milk with cream for a richer sauce, or plant-based milk if you’re aiming for a dairy-free version.
FAQ
What makes this Chicken Kiev Pasta Bake a top comfort food choice?
The combination of tender chicken, creamy garlic butter sauce, and the crispy breadcrumb topping creates a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. It’s perfect for any occasion when you need a hearty meal.
How can I adjust the flavors in the Chicken Kiev Pasta Bake?
You can enhance the flavors by adding fresh herbs, spices, or additional cheese. Ingredients like lemon zest can freshen the dish, while red pepper flakes can provide a spicy kick.
Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken meat is ideal for this recipe, making it quicker and easier to prepare.
How long does this Chicken Kiev Pasta Bake last in the refrigerator?
When properly stored in an airtight container, this dish will last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Is it possible to freeze Chicken Kiev Pasta Bake?
Yes! You can freeze it before baking or after. Just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container, and thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
With the Top 1 Comforting Chicken Kiev Pasta Bake, you’ll provide not just a meal, but an experience that everyone at the table will remember. So gather those ingredients, and let the culinary magic begin!
Chicken Kiev Pasta Bake
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 large large chicken breasts, cooked and shredded or diced (about 2½ cups)
- 12 oz cavatappi pasta or any short pasta
Sauce Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1¾ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk (or half-and-half for extra creaminess)
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried dill (optional but traditional)
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping Ingredients
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter (for breadcrumbs)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional) for a fresher flavor profile
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions, stopping just shy of al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter until bubbly, then add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute.
- Stir in the all-purpose flour and whisk for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
- Slowly pour in the chicken broth, whisking vigorously to avoid lumps.
- Add the milk, dried parsley, dried dill (if using), onion powder, and salt and pepper, stirring until the sauce thickens (about 4-5 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- In a bowl or baking dish, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and garlic butter sauce, mixing well.
Topping and Baking
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the pasta mixture.
- In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs with olive oil or melted butter and sprinkle evenly across the cheese layer.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 20-25 minutes until the breadcrumb topping is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
- Let rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
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