Mary Berry Chicken Pasta Bake
Dive into the comforting warmth of Mary Berry's Chicken Pasta Bake, a creamy, cheesy delight that's perfect for family dinners. This dish combines tender chicken, penne pasta, and a rich bechamel sauce, topped with golden, bubbling cheese and fresh tomatoes for a touch of sweetness. Here's how to create this heartwarming meal that's sure to please everyone at the table.
Mary Berry's Chicken Pasta Bake: A Brief Description
Mary Berry's Chicken Pasta Bake is a testament to comfort food, blending the richness of cheese with the heartiness of pasta and chicken. It's a versatile dish that allows for customization according to your taste, making it a staple for any home cook.
Ingredients for the Cherry and Coconut Cake
- Chicken breasts, seasoned with garlic granules and paprika for depth of flavor
- Penne pasta, though you can opt for your favorite pasta shape
- A base for the sauce made from butter, plain flour, and full-fat milk, enriched with Dijon mustard and grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh tomatoes and optional parsley for garnish, adding freshness and color
Preparation Instructions
- Pasta and Chicken: Start by cooking the penne to al dente perfection and sautéing the chicken until golden.
- Creamy Sauce: A roux of butter and flour, gradually whisked with milk, forms the foundation of the sauce, which is then flavored with mustard and Parmesan.
- Assembly: Layer the cooked pasta in a dish, add the chicken, pour over the creamy sauce, and top with tomatoes and extra cheese for a melt-in-your-mouth finish.
- Baking: The assembled dish goes into the oven until it's beautifully golden and bubbling, ready to be served with a side of your choice.
Storage and Reheating
To keep leftovers, store in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat in the oven or microwave until piping hot. This ensures the pasta bake remains moist and delicious.
Nutritional Information
Expect a rich dish, with calories primarily from the cheese, chicken, and pasta, providing a good balance of protein, carbs, and fats.
FAQ about the Chicken Pasta Bake
- Can I make it ahead? Yes, prepare the components and assemble before baking when needed.
- Substitutions? Feel free to swap out vegetables or pasta shapes.
- Reheating? Oven or microwave works, with the oven offering a chance to crisp up the top once more.
Enjoy the luscious layers of Mary Berry's Chicken Pasta Bake, a dish that promises satisfaction and comfort with every forkful. With its simple yet flavorful components, it's a wonderful way to end any day on a delicious note.
For a more detailed exploration of this recipe, including precise measurements and step-by-step instructions, visit sources like My Gorgeous Recipes, British Recipes Book, and Simple Home Cooked Recipes. Each offers a unique take on Mary Berry's classic dish, ensuring you can tailor it to your family's tastes.