Tomato chicken pasta bake is a delicious and easy to make meal that is sure to be a hit with your family. It's a one-pan dish that can be made in under an hour and can be served hot or cold. Tomato chicken pasta bake is a great way to use up leftovers or to make for a quick dinner on a busy weeknight. With its combination of flavorful ingredients, this dish is sure to be a favorite.
The base of the dish is made up of chicken, tomatoes, and pasta. The chicken can be cooked beforehand or you can use leftover cooked chicken. The tomatoes can be either fresh or canned, depending on what you have available. The pasta can be any type of your choice, such as penne, rotini, or macaroni. The tomato sauce can be homemade or store-bought. The cheese can be any type of your choice, such as mozzarella, cheddar, or Parmesan.
To make the dish, first preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Next, cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside. In a large skillet, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown. Add the tomatoes and tomato sauce and cook for another 5 minutes. Add the cooked pasta and stir to combine.
Transfer the mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the cheese on top and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve hot or cold. Enjoy!
Tips and Variations
For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with firm tofu or mushrooms. You can also add vegetables, such as bell peppers, onions, or zucchini. To add some extra flavor, try adding some Italian herbs or spices, such as oregano or basil. You can also add some red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. For a richer flavor, try using cream instead of tomato sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Tomato chicken pasta bake is a great meal on its own, but it can also be served with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread. It can also be served as an appetizer or as a main course. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the microwave or oven before serving.
Nutritional Information
One serving of tomato chicken pasta bake (1/6 of the recipe) contains approximately 244 calories, 11g of fat, 23g of carbohydrates, 19g of protein, and 4g of fiber.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of pasta is best for tomato chicken pasta bake?
Any type of pasta can be used for tomato chicken pasta bake, such as penne, rotini, or macaroni. The cooking time may vary depending on the type of pasta used.
Can I use canned tomatoes for this recipe?
Yes, you can use canned tomatoes for this recipe. Make sure to drain the tomatoes before adding them to the skillet.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Is tomato chicken pasta bake gluten-free?
Yes, this dish can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and making sure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze tomato chicken pasta bake for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven or microwave.
