Save A comforting and flavorful baked pasta dish featuring tender chicken, zesty salsa, and melted cheese for a family-friendly weeknight meal.
This recipe quickly became a staple in our home because it combines bold flavors with easy prep and cleanup.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 300 g (10 oz) penne or rotini pasta (regular or gluten-free)
- Chicken: 2 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 400 g / 14 oz), diced; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp ground cumin; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Sauce: 2 cups (500 ml) tomato salsa (mild or spicy, as preferred); 1/2 cup (120 ml) sour cream; 1/2 cup (120 ml) chicken broth
- Cheese: 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- Vegetables & Garnish: 1 small red bell pepper, diced; 1/2 red onion, diced; 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Lightly grease a 23x33 cm (9x13 inch) baking dish.
- Step 2:
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Step 3:
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 56 minutes until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
- Step 4:
- Add the diced bell pepper and red onion to the skillet; sauté for 23 minutes until slightly softened. Remove from heat.
- Step 5:
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, chicken and veggies, salsa, sour cream, and chicken broth. Mix well to coat evenly.
- Step 6:
- Spread half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Top with the remaining pasta mixture, then sprinkle with the rest of the cheeses.
- Step 7:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Step 8:
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired. Serve hot.
Save This dish always brings everyone to the table with smiles, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Required Tools
Large pot, Large skillet, Mixing bowl, 23x33 cm (9x13 inch) baking dish, Knife and cutting board, Cheese grater
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat (unless using gluten-free pasta), Milk (cheese, sour cream); May contain Soy (in processed cheese), check salsa for allergens
Nutritional Information
Calories 540, Total Fat 22 g, Carbohydrates 49 g, Protein 35 g per serving
Save This dish combines convenience and bold flavors for a satisfying meal you can trust to please the whole family.
Recipe FAQ Section
- → What pasta types work best for this dish?
Penne or rotini are ideal as they hold the sauce well. Gluten-free versions work for dietary needs without sacrificing texture.
- → Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
Yes, diced turkey or firm tofu can be substituted, adjusting cooking times accordingly.
- → How can I make the dish spicier?
Use a hot salsa variety or add chopped jalapeños during the sauté step for an extra kick.
- → What cheeses are recommended for melting?
Cheddar and mozzarella provide a creamy, gooey topping that browns nicely in the oven.
- → Is it possible to prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the layers and refrigerate before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold.