Chicken and Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe for Easy Dinners

If you’re looking for a comforting and wholesome dinner that brings together tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and hearty pasta, this Chicken and Vegetable Pasta Bake recipe is just what you need. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend family meals, this dish combines the ease of a one-pan bake with the rich flavors of a creamy, cheesy sauce.

Loaded with nutritious ingredients and vibrant colors, it’s a crowd-pleaser that satisfies both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe is straightforward, flexible, and guaranteed to deliver a delicious, warming meal that feels like a hug in every bite.

Ready in under an hour, this pasta bake is also a great way to use up leftover veggies or chicken, making it not just tasty but practical too. Plus, it freezes well, so you can enjoy it again on a busy day.

Let’s dive into why this recipe should be your new go-to comfort food!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chicken and Vegetable Pasta Bake is a perfect blend of convenience and flavor. It’s a one-dish meal that requires minimal preparation but rewards you with layers of deliciousness.

The chicken keeps it protein-packed, while the vegetables add freshness and nutrients. The creamy sauce ties everything together, making every forkful rich and satisfying.

It’s also very adaptable. You can swap out veggies based on what’s in season or your fridge, and adjust the cheese to suit your taste or dietary preference.

Plus, the leftovers taste just as good, making it an excellent choice for meal prep.

For those interested in more wholesome, easy-to-make recipes, don’t forget to check out our A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion and Amazing Vegan Pasta Recipes for Easy Delicious Meals for some plant-based inspiration.

Ingredients

• 300g penne pasta (or any pasta of your choice)
• 2 chicken breasts, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
• 200ml cream (or use coconut cream for dairy-free option)
• 150g grated mozzarella cheese
• 50g grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large frying pan or skillet
• Oven-proof baking dish (approx. 9×13 inches)
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and chopping board
• Colander for draining pasta
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Lightly grease your baking dish with a little olive oil.
2. Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, following package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove chicken from pan and set aside.
4. In the same pan, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
5. Add the vegetables — red bell pepper, zucchini, and broccoli. Cook for 5-6 minutes until they begin to soften but still retain some crunch.
6. Pour in the canned diced tomatoes and cream, stirring well. Add oregano, salt, and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer gently for 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
7. Return the cooked chicken to the pan and stir everything together. Remove from heat.
8. Combine the cooked pasta with the chicken and vegetable sauce, mixing thoroughly to coat all the pasta.
9. Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the grated mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the top.
10. Bake uncovered in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown and the bake is bubbling around the edges.
11. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Tips & Variations

To make this dish dairy-free, substitute the cream with coconut cream and use a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

Feel free to swap the chicken for cooked turkey or even cooked lentils for a vegetarian twist!

For added depth, try incorporating mushrooms or spinach into the vegetable mix. You can also experiment with different pasta shapes like fusilli or rigatoni — just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.

If you enjoy a little heat, sprinkle some chili flakes or serve with a side of Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend to spice things up.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This pasta bake is wonderfully versatile for serving. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette works beautifully to cut through the richness of the bake.

Roasted garlic bread or warm dinner rolls make for a comforting accompaniment, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.

For a lighter option, pair it with steamed green beans or a crisp cucumber and tomato salad. If you’re serving guests, consider garnishing with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil to add a burst of freshness.

Conclusion

This Chicken and Vegetable Pasta Bake is an ideal comfort food that balances ease, nutrition, and flavor perfectly. With wholesome ingredients like chicken, fresh vegetables, and a creamy sauce, it becomes a hearty meal that satisfies your taste buds and nourishes your body.

The recipe’s flexibility means you can tailor it to whatever you have on hand, making it perfect for busy evenings or meal prepping ahead.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this bake guarantees a delicious, warming meal that’s both filling and comforting. Don’t forget to explore other delightful recipes like Chicken and Roasted Veg Recipes for Easy Healthy Meals for more inspiration.

Happy cooking!

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