Baked penne with chicken and mozzarella

Baked Penne with Chicken and Mozzarella - a simple and delicious recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Who doesn't love a dish that combines the rich flavors of chicken, the creamy textures of the sauce, and the gooey pieces of mozzarella? Baked penne with chicken and mozzarella is a perfect choice for a quick and tasty dinner that will delight the whole family. This easy-to-make recipe is not only nutritious but also full of flavor, being a perfect example of comfort food.

The history of baked penne is fascinating, with roots in culinary traditions that blend simple ingredients with accessible cooking techniques. Every family has its own version, but we propose a recipe that is guaranteed to bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones.

Necessary ingredients:

- 150 grams of tricolor penne (we recommend Barilla brand for the perfect texture)
- 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 large red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/2 skinless, boneless chicken breast, diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 can of diced tomatoes in juice (about 400g)
- 100 ml light cooking cream
- 55 grams grated parmesan
- 125 grams mozzarella, sliced

These ingredients are not only accessible but also packed with nutrients. Chicken is an excellent source of protein, and tomatoes contribute beneficial antioxidants for health. Mozzarella, besides its delicious taste, provides calcium, essential for bone health.

Steps for preparation:

1. Boil the pasta: In a large pot, add salted water and bring it to a boil. Add the penne and follow the package instructions to cook them al dente. They should be cooked in about 8-10 minutes. Once the pasta is ready, drain it and set it aside.

2. Prepare the chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and red bell pepper, sprinkling a little salt, and sauté for 5 minutes until they become soft and translucent. This step is essential to release the flavors of the vegetables.

3. Add garlic and chicken: Incorporating the minced garlic, continue to cook for 1 minute, then add the chicken cubes. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and dried basil. Cook everything over medium-high heat for 5-6 minutes until the chicken is golden and fully cooked.

4. Mix the sauce: Add the diced tomatoes and cooking cream to the skillet. Stir well to combine the ingredients and let the sauce simmer gently for 2 minutes. This sauce will give a rich flavor to the dish and make the pasta absorb all the aromas.

5. Combine the pasta with the sauce: Add the cooked penne to the skillet, stirring gently to coat them evenly with the sauce. Ensure that each piece of pasta is well dressed.

6. Prepare the baking dish: Transfer the pasta and chicken mixture to a baking dish. Arrange the slices of mozzarella on top so that they melt evenly during baking.

7. Bake: Preheat the oven to 190 degrees Celsius. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 10 minutes or until the mozzarella is golden and bubbly. This step adds a delicious crunchy texture on top.

8. Serving: Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. You can add some freshly chopped basil on top for an extra touch of flavor and freshness.

Serving suggestions: This baked penne recipe pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad and a simple dressing of olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Additionally, a glass of semi-sweet white wine will perfectly complement the flavors of this dish.

Tips and variations: If you want to add more vegetables to the recipe, you can include zucchini or mushrooms. Also, for a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with tofu or roasted vegetables.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other types of pasta? Yes, you can substitute penne with any other type of pasta, such as fusilli or rigatoni.

2. How can I make the recipe spicier? Add chili flakes or chili sauce during cooking for an extra kick.

3. What can I use instead of cream? You can opt for Greek yogurt or a vegan cream alternative, depending on your preferences.

Nutrition: One serving of this recipe contains approximately 450 calories, being a balanced meal that provides you with proteins, carbohydrates, and healthy fats.

These baked penne with chicken and mozzarella are a perfect example of a quick and simple recipe that not only satisfies your hunger but also brings the family together around the table. Experiment with the ingredients and make it your own, and every meal will become a special occasion. Enjoy!