Description

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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.

Instructions

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 from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.