Baked penne with chicken

Enjoy the flavor of a delicious baked penne recipe with chicken! This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for a family dinner or to impress friends. With a creamy sauce and a topping of perfectly melting cheese, you will fall in love with every bite.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients needed
- 500 g chicken breast
- 250 g penne (or other preferred pasta)
- 100 ml cooking cream
- 250 ml milk
- 2 eggs
- 1-2 tablespoons flour (depending on desired sauce thickness)
- 150 g cheese (grated)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon sweet or spicy paprika
- 1 teaspoon curry (optional)
- 1-2 cloves garlic (crushed)
- Dried thyme to taste
- Butter for greasing the dish

Short story
Baked penne is a dish that has won the hearts of many due to its versatility and ease of preparation. This recipe perfectly combines the delicious flavors of chicken with a creamy sauce, while the melted cheese adds a crispy texture on top. It is a dish that blends comfort and satisfaction, making it ideal for any occasion, whether it's a family dinner or a gathering with friends.

Step-by-step preparation

1. Boil the pasta: Start by bringing water to a boil in a large pot, adding 2 tablespoons of coarse salt. When the water starts to boil, add the pasta. Let it boil for 10-15 minutes, according to the package instructions, until al dente. After boiling, drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.

2. Prepare the chicken: While the pasta is boiling, wash the chicken breast and cut it into long strips. Season the strips with salt and pepper. Then, grill them (or in a grill pan) to fry. No oil is needed as the chicken will release enough fat. Cook until golden and well done (about 7-10 minutes).

3. Prepare the sauce: In a large bowl, mix the cooking cream with the eggs and milk. If you want a thicker sauce, add flour mixed with water (depending on the desired consistency). Season the sauce with salt, pepper, paprika, curry, and crushed garlic. Mix well until you obtain a homogeneous composition.

4. Combine the ingredients: Add the fried chicken strips to the prepared sauce, then incorporate the boiled pasta. Carefully mix everything, ensuring that the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.

5. Assemble the dish: Grease a heat-resistant dish with butter. Place a layer of penne with sauce, followed by a generous layer of grated cheese, then repeat with another layer of penne. Finally, cover everything with a generous layer of cheese and sprinkle thyme on top.

6. Bake: Preheat the oven to 180°C and place the dish in the oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese on top turns golden and crispy.

7. Serve: Remove the penne from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, and then serve with gusto. This dish is delicious both warm and at room temperature.

Useful tips
- Ingredient variations: You can replace the chicken breast with turkey meat or even vegetables for a vegetarian option. Zucchini or eggplant work very well in this recipe.
- Add spices: Feel free to experiment with different spices. Oregano, basil, or even a splash of pesto sauce can add a unique note to your dish.
- Vary the sauce: Instead of cream, you can use ricotta cheese or Greek yogurt for a lighter option.

Ideal combinations
Baked penne pairs wonderfully with a fresh vegetable salad or a Caesar salad. Additionally, a glass of dry white wine or a refreshing lemonade perfectly complements the meal.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use whole grain pasta?
Yes, you can use whole grain pasta for a healthier option, with a higher fiber content.

2. How can I store leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. You can reheat in the oven or microwave.

3. Can it be frozen?
Yes, this dish can be frozen, but we recommend reheating it in the oven to maintain the crispy texture of the cheese.

I conclude with a personal note: this baked penne recipe was discovered in moments of culinary inspiration and chaos in the kitchen, but it quickly became a family favorite. I hope you enjoy it just as much! KSSS!

 Ingredients: Ingredients: 500g chicken breast, 100ml cooking cream, 250ml milk, 2 eggs, 1-2 tablespoons of flour (depending on how thick you want the sauce), salt, pepper, spicy paprika, thyme, curry, garlic, cheese, a pack of penne.

 Tags:  baked penne with chicken