Chicken and Chorizo Pasta Bake (1 Hour)

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This penne pasta bake combines tender chicken pieces, spicy chorizo, and a generous amount of cheese for a hearty and comforting dish. The blend of flavors from the succulent chicken, the rich and slightly smoky chorizo, and the melting cheese creates a satisfying and delicious meal.

This bake is perfect for a family dinner, offering a fulfilling and tasty way to end a busy day. The combination of pasta, protein, and cheese, baked until bubbly and golden, makes this dish a crowd-pleaser and a sure hit for any pasta lover.

  • Prep Time: 40 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
  • Total Time: 60-65 minutes
  • Yield: 4–6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 8 oz penne pasta
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 6 oz chorizo, sliced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven (10 minutes): Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook Pasta (10 minutes): Boil the penne pasta in salted water until al dente, then drain.
  3. Sauté Chicken and Chorizo (10 minutes): In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté chicken pieces and chorizo with onion and garlic until the chicken is cooked through.
  4. Combine Ingredients (5 minutes): In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta with the chicken-chorizo mixture and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Assemble Pasta Bake (5 minutes): Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
  6. Bake (20-25 minutes): Bake in the preheated oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
  7. Garnish and Serve (5 minutes): Let the bake cool slightly, then garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Notes

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the chicken and chorizo while cooking. You can also mix in some vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition.

This pasta bake is versatile and can be adapted with different types of cheese or pasta. Serve with a simple side salad or garlic bread to complete the meal.

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 600
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 850mg
  • Fat: 35g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 120mg

Pair this with...

Garlic Bread

Grab a loaf of your favorite bread—baguette or ciabatta are classics. Slice it up, but not all the way through, so it fans out nicely. In a bowl, melt some butter and stir in minced garlic (as much or as little as you like), a sprinkle of salt, and maybe a touch of dried parsley for that extra flair. Generously brush or spread this garlicky goodness between the slices. Wrap the loaf in foil and pop it into a pre-heated oven. When it's golden and aromatic, pull it out and enjoy the buttery, crispy, garlicky delight.

Roasted Asparagus with Sea Salt

Start by preheating your oven. Take fresh asparagus spears, snap off the tough ends, and lay them out on a baking sheet. A little drizzle of olive oil goes a long way in giving them a lovely coat. Now, for the pièce de résistance, sprinkle some coarse sea salt over the top. It not only elevates the flavor but also gives a delightful crunch. Pop them in the oven and roast until they're tender yet crisp, with hints of golden brown at the tips. The result? A dish that's vibrant in color, rich in flavor, and just a touch fancy.

Simple Green Salad

Begin by selecting crisp lettuce leaves, giving them a thorough wash and a gentle pat dry. Tear the leaves into bite-sized pieces and place them as the foundation of your salad. Next, slice ripe tomatoes, their juicy segments promising a burst of sweetness. Add these to the lettuce, their vibrant red contrasting beautifully against the green. For a refreshing crunch, slice a cucumber into thin rounds or half-moons, layering them amongst the other ingredients. For dressing, a light drizzle of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice will enhance the salad's natural flavors without overshadowing them. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper and any herbs of your choosing.

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