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Creamy Canned Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe Easy Cheesy Crispy Topping

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A quick and comforting creamy canned chicken pasta bake with a cheesy crispy topping, perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces (225 g) pasta (elbow macaroni or penne)
  • 1 can (12.5 oz / 354 g) canned chicken, drained
  • 2 cups (480 ml) milk (whole milk or 2%)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup (100 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
  • 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1/2 cup (50 g) panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup (50 g) shredded mozzarella or extra sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces (225 g) of pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour and stir constantly for about 2 minutes until smooth roux forms.
  3. Slowly pour in 2 cups (480 ml) milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Cook and stir until sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper to taste. Fold in 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
  5. Gently fold in cooked pasta and drained canned chicken, ensuring even coating with sauce.
  6. In a small bowl, mix 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs with 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese and 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter.
  7. Transfer the creamy chicken pasta mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Evenly sprinkle breadcrumb mixture on top.
  8. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until topping is golden brown and crispy.
  9. Let the bake rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

Use a trusted canned chicken brand like Swanson or Valley Fresh for best texture. For gluten-free, substitute pasta, flour, and breadcrumbs with gluten-free versions. If sauce is too thick before baking, stir in a splash of milk. Cover topping with foil if browning too fast. Breadcrumb alternatives include crushed crackers or cornflakes. For extra creaminess, add cream cheese or heavy cream to sauce before baking.

Nutrition

Keywords: canned chicken pasta bake, creamy pasta bake, cheesy pasta bake, quick dinner, easy pasta bake, comfort food, cheesy crispy topping

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