Mary Berry Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe

Mary Berry’s Chicken Pasta Bake is a comforting and delicious dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or when you’re hosting friends. This hearty bake combines tender chicken, pasta, a rich tomato sauce, and creamy cheese to create a meal that’s both filling and flavorful. It’s an easy, make-ahead dish that will quickly become a favorite in your home.

Mary Berry Chicken Pasta Bake

Mary Berry’s Chicken Pasta Bake is a classic dish that blends cooked pasta with chicken in a rich tomato-based sauce, topped with a creamy cheese layer, and baked until golden and bubbly. It’s a satisfying, one-pan meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. The dish is comforting and packed with flavor from the fresh ingredients and the creamy, cheesy topping.

Other Popular Recipes

• Mary Berry Chicken and Broccoli Bake
• Jamie Oliver Chicken Pasta Bake
• Mary Berry Beef Stroganoff

Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Family-Friendly: Loved by both kids and adults.
• Make-Ahead: Perfect for preparing ahead of time and baking when ready.
• Comfort Food: A warm and hearty meal that’s ideal for busy nights.
• Balanced Flavor: The combination of chicken, pasta, and tomato sauce with cheese creates a flavorful, well-rounded dish.
• Easy to Adapt: You can easily switch up the vegetables or pasta to suit your taste.

Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Chicken Pasta Bake

To make one large baking dish (serves 4-6), gather the following ingredients:

• 300g (10.5 oz) pasta (penne or fusilli): Holds the sauce well and bakes beautifully.
• 2 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing the chicken and vegetables.
• 2 chicken breasts, diced: Adds lean protein to the dish.
• 1 onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for a fragrant and flavorful sauce.
• 400g (14 oz) canned chopped tomatoes: Forms the base of the tomato sauce.
• 1 tbsp tomato paste: Enhances the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce.
• 1 tsp dried oregano: Adds a classic Italian flavor to the dish.
• 1 tsp dried basil: Complements the oregano for a balanced herb flavor.
• 200ml (¾ cup) double cream: Creates a creamy and rich sauce.
• 100g (1 cup) grated mozzarella cheese: For the cheesy topping.
• 50g (½ cup) grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor to the bake.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: For seasoning.

Equipment

Here’s what you’ll need to make Mary Berry Chicken Pasta Bake:

• Large pot: To boil the pasta.
• Large frying pan or skillet: To cook the chicken and prepare the sauce.
• Baking dish (9×13 inch): To bake the pasta.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring.
• Grater: To grate the cheeses.

Instructions to Make Mary Berry Chicken Pasta Bake

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

• Heat olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat.
• Add the diced chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes, until the chicken is golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Onion and Garlic

• In the same pan, add more olive oil if needed and sauté the onion for 3-4 minutes until softened.
• Add the garlic and cook for another 1 minute, until fragrant.

Step 4: Make the Tomato Sauce

• Stir in the chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, and basil. Simmer for 10-12 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
• Add salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine the Chicken and Sauce

• Add the cooked chicken back into the sauce and stir well to combine.
• Pour in the double cream and simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce is creamy and well mixed.

Step 6: Assemble the Bake

• Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
• In a large baking dish, combine the cooked pasta with the chicken and tomato sauce mixture. Stir well to ensure the pasta is coated evenly with the sauce.
• Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top.

Step 7: Bake the Dish

• Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown on top.
• Once baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.

What Goes Well with Mary Berry Chicken Pasta Bake?

Here are some great pairings for Mary Berry Chicken Pasta Bake:

• Garlic Bread: A perfect side for soaking up the sauce.
• Green Salad: A simple salad with a light vinaigrette adds freshness to balance the richness of the bake.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots for extra flavor and texture.
• Steamed Broccoli: A light, healthy side that pairs well with the creamy bake.
• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad complements the pasta bake with its crisp and tangy flavors.

Expert Tips for Making the Best Mary Berry Chicken Pasta Bake

Follow these tips to make your Chicken Pasta Bake even better:

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the pasta al dente since it will continue to cook in the oven.
• Use Fresh Herbs: For a fresher flavor, replace dried herbs with fresh basil or oregano if available.
• Add Vegetables: You can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the sauce for extra nutrients and flavor.
• Grate Fresh Cheese: Freshly grated mozzarella and Parmesan cheese melt better and add more flavor to the dish.
• Make It Ahead: This dish can be assembled in advance and baked when ready. Just cover and refrigerate, then bake as directed.

Easy Variations of Mary Berry Chicken Pasta Bake

Looking to change up your pasta bake? Try these variations:

• Spicy Chicken Pasta Bake: Add chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the tomato sauce for a spicy kick.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or a combination of vegetables for a vegetarian version.
• Chicken and Pesto Bake: Stir in a couple of tablespoons of pesto with the cream for a delicious twist.
• Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake: Add steamed broccoli to the pasta and chicken for a well-balanced meal.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten intolerance.

Best Practices to Store Mary Berry Chicken Pasta Bake

Here’s how to store your pasta bake for future meals:

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the pasta bake by allowing it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 160°C (320°F) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions.

Best Practices to Reheat Mary Berry Chicken Pasta Bake

Reheating your pasta bake while keeping it delicious is easy with these methods:

• Oven: Reheat the entire dish in the oven for about 20 minutes at 160°C (320°F) until the cheese is bubbly and the pasta is heated through.
• Microwave: For individual portions, microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.

How Can I Make Mary Berry Chicken Pasta Bake Healthier?

For a lighter version of this dish, try these modifications:

• Use Whole Wheat Pasta: Swap regular pasta with whole wheat or a gluten-free option for added fiber.
• Reduce the Cheese: You can use less cheese or opt for a lighter cheese like part-skim mozzarella.
• Add Vegetables: Incorporate vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to add more nutrients to the dish.
• Use Light Cream: Replace the double cream with a lower-fat option, such as half-and-half, to reduce the calorie content.

Nutrition Value (per serving)

• Calories: 550
• Fat: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Protein: 28g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 6g

FAQs

Can I freeze Mary Berry Chicken Pasta Bake?

Yes, Mary Berry Chicken Pasta Bake can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly in foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven until warmed through.

How do I prevent my pasta bake from drying out?

To prevent the pasta bake from drying out, make sure to cover it with foil during the first part of baking. You can also add a little extra sauce or cream before baking to ensure the pasta stays moist. Removing the foil for the last 10 minutes will help create a golden, crispy top.

Can I bake this chicken pasta in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the chicken pasta bake in advance. Simply prepare the dish as directed, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready, bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What kind of pasta works best for chicken pasta bake?

Pasta shapes that hold sauce well, such as penne, fusilli, or rigatoni, work best for chicken pasta bake. These shapes help to catch the sauce in their ridges, ensuring each bite is flavorful and coated in the creamy tomato mixture.

Final Words

The Mary Berry Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe is a comforting and crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and cheesy topping, this bake is sure to become a family favorite.

More By British Baking Recipes

• Mary Berry Paprika Chicken
• Hairy Bikers Chicken Cacciatore
• Hairy Bikers Chicken Paprika
• James Martin Butternut Squash Soup
• Jamie Oliver Marrow Soup
• Mary Berry Lentil Soup

Print