This delightful chicken pasta casserole is the perfect addition to your festive table, combining tender chicken, creamy sauce, and a medley of flavors that will impress your guests and family alike.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2-3 chicken breasts
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 50g (1.7 oz) grated cheese
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons flour
For the Sauce and Vegetables:
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 large carrot, grated
- 4 tablespoons Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 200g (7.5 oz) pasta
- Fresh green onions, chopped
- 1 pickled cucumber, diced
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces
- In a bowl, mix eggs, paprika, black pepper, and flour
- Coat chicken pieces in the egg mixture
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat a large skillet with a little oil
- Fry the coated chicken pieces until golden brown and cooked through
- Set aside on a paper towel to drain excess oil
- Prepare Vegetables:
- Dice the onion
- Grate the carrot
- Chop green onions
- Dice the pickled cucumber
- Cook Pasta:
- Boil pasta in salted water according to package instructions
- Drain and set aside
- Create the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, sauté onions and carrots until soft
- Add Greek yogurt and soy sauce
- Mix thoroughly
- Combine and Finish:
- Add cooked chicken to the vegetable mixture
- Mix in the cooked pasta
- Sprinkle grated cheese on top
- Optional: Place under the broiler for 2-3 minutes to melt cheese
- Garnish:
- Sprinkle chopped green onions over the top
- Add diced pickled cucumber
Nutritional Information
Per Serving:
- Calories: 380-420
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 15g
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Servings: 4-5
Cooking Tips and Tricks
- Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F)
- Use freshly grated cheese for best melting
- Don’t overcook the pasta – keep it al dente
- Use a non-stick skillet for easier cooking and cleaning
Variations and Substitutions
- Pasta Options: Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta
- Protein Alternatives: Replace chicken with turkey or tofu
- Cheese Variations: Try mozzarella, cheddar, or a dairy-free cheese
- Vegetable Additions: Add bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, prepare the components in advance and assemble before serving.
Q2: Is this recipe freezer-friendly? Best consumed fresh, but can be refrigerated for 1-2 days.
Q3: How can I make this dish spicier? Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
Q4: Can I use a different type of yogurt? Plain regular yogurt works as a substitute for Greek yogurt.
Q5: What can I serve as a side dish? A light green salad or steamed vegetables complement this dish well.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days
- Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave
- Add a splash of milk or yogurt when reheating to prevent dryness
A perfect blend of comfort and festivity, this chicken pasta casserole is sure to become a family favorite!