Oven-baked chicken pasta

Recipe for Pasta with Caramelized Chicken and Bechamel Sauce

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Welcome to the delicious world of baked pasta! Today we will embark on a savory recipe that combines the delicate flavors of caramelized chicken with a creamy bechamel sauce and penne pasta. This dish will not only delight your taste buds but also add a touch of elegance to your table. Whether you are preparing dinner for family or looking to impress friends, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. Let's get started!

Ingredients

- 250 g penne pasta
- 2 chicken breasts
- 100 g grated parmesan
- 750 ml milk
- 50 g butter
- 50 g flour
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 medium onion
- 1 tomato
- Salt, pepper, and seasoning (to taste)
- Herbs (optional: oregano, basil, rosemary)

Necessary utensils

- A large pot for boiling pasta
- A frying pan
- A spatula
- A mixing bowl
- A baking dish
- A whisk or a mixer

The story behind the recipe

Baked pasta is a versatile dish that has gained popularity in many culinary cultures. Its origins lie in cooking traditions from the medieval period when pasta was often combined with rich sauces and meats. The combination of bechamel sauce with caramelized chicken and onion flavors adds extra taste and comfort to this dish, transforming a simple meal into an extraordinary culinary experience.

Step-by-step preparation

1. Boiling the pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt to flavor the pasta. When the water is boiling, add 250 g of penne pasta and follow the package instructions for cooking time (usually 8-10 minutes for penne). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

2. Preparing the chicken

Meanwhile, prepare the chicken. Cut the two chicken breasts into cubes. In a frying pan, add a tablespoon of olive oil and heat over medium heat. Add the chicken and let it brown for a few minutes, stirring occasionally. Once the chicken starts to turn golden, add a tablespoon of honey and mix well to coat the chicken with a sweet glaze. Turn off the heat and transfer the chicken to a plate.

3. Cooking the onion

In the same frying pan, add the chopped onion. Cook over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and releases its flavors. This step is essential for adding a special taste to your dish.

4. Preparing the bechamel sauce

For the bechamel sauce, start by melting 50 g of butter in another container over low heat. Once melted, add 50 g of flour, stirring constantly with a whisk to avoid lumps. Cook for 1-2 minutes, then gradually start adding 750 ml of milk, stirring continuously. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Finally, add 100 g of grated parmesan and mix until completely melted.

5. Assembling the dish

In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, caramelized chicken, and cooked onion. Add the bechamel sauce and mix well to ensure that every piece of pasta is evenly coated. Season with salt, pepper, and seasoning to taste.

6. Baking in the oven

Preheat the oven to 180°C. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish. Slice the tomato and place the slices on top of the dish. This will add a touch of freshness and a pleasant appearance. Bake in the oven for 20-30 minutes, or until the top becomes golden and crispy.

Serving suggestions

Serve the pasta hot, sprinkled with a little extra parmesan and, if desired, with fresh herbs on top (basil or parsley). This pasta with caramelized chicken and bechamel sauce pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad and a glass of dry white wine.

Possible variations

If you want to add extra nutrients, you can include vegetables such as spinach or zucchini in the pasta mixture. Also, for a spicy version, try adding a pinch of chili pepper to the bechamel sauce or using chicken breast marinated in Asian spices.

Useful tips

- Make sure the chicken is well browned to achieve an intense flavor.
- You can also use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
- If you don't have parmesan, another type of hard cheese will work, but the taste will be different.

Nutritional information

This recipe offers a balanced combination of carbohydrates from pasta, protein from chicken, and healthy fats from the sauce. One serving contains approximately 450 calories, depending on the exact ingredients used. It is also a good source of calcium from milk and parmesan.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, but the cooking time may vary.

2. What else can I add to the bechamel sauce?
You can experiment with different cheeses or add garlic or nutmeg for a more complex flavor.

3. How can I make this dish healthier?
Use whole ingredients such as whole wheat pasta and reduce the amount of cheese.

This recipe for pasta with caramelized chicken and bechamel sauce is a true feast, perfect for bringing joy and flavor to every meal. Don't forget to enjoy every step of cooking and, most importantly, every bite. Bon appétit!