Easy Chicken Pasta Extravaganza – simple and delicious

Why You’ll Like It

Chicken Pasta Extravaganza is the ultimate one-dish comfort meal—juicy chicken, rich creamy sauce, pasta, veggies, and cheese all baked into one irresistible casserole. It’s satisfying, versatile, and perfect for both family dinners and leftovers.

 Tools Needed

• Large skillet

• Large pot (for pasta)

• Strainer

• Cutting board & knife

• 9×13″ baking dish

• Mixing spoon or spatula

Ingredients

• 300g (10 oz) pasta (penne or rotini)

• 450g (1 lb) cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)

• 1 cup diced bell peppers

• 1 cup chopped spinach or broccoli

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar

• 1 cup cream or half-and-half

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• Salt & pepper to taste

• Optional: grated parmesan for topping

 How to Make It

1. Cook the Pasta
   Boil pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Sauté the Veggies
   In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté garlic, bell peppers, and spinach or broccoli until tender.

3. Mix the Sauce
   Stir in cream, seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and combine.

4. Combine Everything
   Mix sauce and veggies with pasta. Stir in half the cheese.

5. Bake
   Pour into a baking dish, top with remaining cheese, and bake at 180°C (350°F) for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden.

🥗 Fresh & Light Sides

• Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli – Roasty, cheesy, and adds crunch.

• Classic Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and croutons.

• Cucumber Tomato Salad – A refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta.

• Lemon Garlic Green Beans – Bright and buttery with a hint of zest.

🥖 Breads & Rolls

• Garlic Bread – Crispy edges and soft centre, perfect for scooping sauce.

• Cheesy Pull-Apart Rolls – Great for soaking up creamy goodness.

• Herb Butter Breadsticks – Fluffy and flavourful.

🍲 Soup Starters

• Creamy Tomato Basil Soup – Light and tangy to complement the richness.

• Minestrone Soup – A veggie-packed starter to round out the meal.

🍋 Zesty & Tangy Sides

• Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts – Sweet, tangy, and slightly charred.

• Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette – Peppery and fresh.

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 Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storage:
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezing:
Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating:
Reheat covered in the oven at 175°C (350°F) for 15–20 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 2–3 minutes.