how do you make jamie oliver chicken pasta bake

The Ultimate Guide to Making Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Pasta Bake

Jamie Oliver’s chicken pasta bake is a comforting crowd-pleaser that our family makes time and time again This cheesy baked pasta combines tender chicken, al dente pasta and a creamy, tomatoey sauce for a hearty meal that’s so satisfying.

If you’re looking for an easy dinner recipe that delivers big on flavor, Jamie’s chicken pasta bake is a fantastic option. It comes together in just over an hour from start to finish. Best of all, you only need one dish to make this baked pasta – so cleanup is a breeze!

In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know to make Jamie Oliver’s famous chicken pasta bake recipe, including:

• An overview of the ingredients
• Step-by-step photo instructions
• Cooking tips to ensure pasta perfection
• Serving suggestions and side dish pairings
• Storage instructions

So let’s get cooking! Here’s how to make Jamie’s incredible chicken pasta bake at home…

Chicken Pasta Bake Ingredients

Here is what you’ll need to make this hearty baked pasta recipe:

• Pasta – penne or fusilli work well
• Cooked chicken – breast or thigh, shredded
• Onion – 1 large, finely chopped
• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
• Canned tomatoes – crush or chop
• Tomato paste
• Dried oregano
• Chicken stock
• Heavy cream or creme fraiche
• Grated cheese – mozzarella and parmesan
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh basil or parsley (optional)

For a delicious chicken pasta bake that serves 4-6 people, you’ll need about 300g dried pasta, 500g cooked chicken, 400g canned tomatoes and 200ml each of chicken stock and cream. Get the full ingredient quantities in the recipe card below.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps for perfect Jamie Oliver chicken pasta bake every time:

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking. Set aside.

1. Sauté the Onions & Garlic

Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 5-7 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.

1. Make the Tomato Sauce

To the onions and garlic, add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, chicken stock, salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 10-12 minutes to thicken.

1. Add Chicken & Cream

Stir in the cooked, shredded chicken and heavy cream. Cook for 3-4 minutes to warm through.

1. Combine with Pasta

Add the cooked pasta to the chicken tomato sauce and mix well so the pasta is fully coated.

1. Transfer to Baking Dish

Spoon the chicken pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with grated mozzarella and parmesan cheese.

1. Bake until Golden

Bake uncovered at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes until browned and bubbling.

1. Finish with Herbs

Remove from oven, let sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley. Enjoy!

Tips for Pasta Perfection

Here are some of my tips for making the best chicken pasta bake every time:

• Slightly undercook the pasta so it doesn’t get mushy when baked later.

• Use a mix of mozzarella and parmesan for the cheesy topping – the combo gives great flavor.

• Don’t skimp on seasoning! Be generous with salt, pepper and dried oregano.

• For extra creaminess, use creme fraiche instead of regular cream.

• Cook the chicken breast or thighs separately to shred before adding to the pasta bake.

• Add vegetables like mushrooms, spinach or roasted peppers to boost nutrition.

• For a spicy kick, add chili flakes or hot sauce to the tomato sauce.

Sensational Side Dishes

Jamie’s chicken pasta bake is so flavorful and filling that it doesn’t need much alongside it. That said, here are some tasty sides that pair wonderfully:

• Garlic bread – classic comfort food!

• Green salad – balance the richness with something fresh

• Roasted vegetables – like broccoli, carrots or cauliflower

• Sauteed greens – spinach, kale or chard

• Bruschetta – great way to use up fresh tomatoes

Storing and Freezing Instructions

Leftover chicken pasta bake will keep in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. To freeze, let cool completely then transfer portions to ziplock freezer bags. It will keep frozen for 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

To reheat, place individual portions in a microwave-safe dish and microwave in 30 second bursts until hot throughout, stirring halfway. You can also reheat the entire baking dish in a 300°F (150°C) oven until piping hot, 20-25 minutes.

Make Jamie Proud with This Chicken Pasta Bake

Recreating Jamie Oliver’s recipes at home allows us to experience a little taste of Jamie’s cooking genius using simple ingredients from our own kitchens. This chicken pasta bake is heartwarming comfort food at its best.

With tender chicken, cheesy sauce and al dente pasta all baked together into a bubbling dish, this meal is sure satisfy. The combination of flavors and textures is what makes this recipe so crave-worthy. It’s a baked pasta you’ll want to make over and over again for your family.

So grab your baking dish and get ready to be amazed by how delicious yet easy Jamie’s chicken pasta bake is to whip up. We know this will become one of your go-to dishes for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. Enjoy!