Chicken Pasta with Béchamel Sauce

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Silky béchamel sauce envelops tender chicken and pasta, topped with melted mozzarella for a comforting bake.

Introduction

Comfort food has the magical ability to warm not just the body but also the soul. One of the most beloved classics across cultures is pasta, and when it’s paired with tender chicken and a creamy béchamel sauce, it becomes the ultimate culinary hug. Today, we’re diving deep into the recipe for Chicken Pasta with Béchamel Sauce, a creamy, cheesy, and satisfying dish perfect for any dinner table, whether it’s a weeknight family meal or a special gathering.

This comforting bake is made from scratch using simple pantry staples and turns humble ingredients into a luscious meal. The star of the show is the béchamel sauce, one of the five French “mother sauces,” elevated here with garlic, nutmeg, and mozzarella for extra depth. Tender, juicy chicken pieces make this dish hearty, while al dente pasta ensures it holds structure and texture beneath the creamy goodness.

Let’s explore every detail of making this incredible meal—from the selection of ingredients to the techniques that ensure maximum flavor and the tips that will help you get it right every time.

 Ingredients (US Cup Measurements)

  • 8 oz. ziti pasta (or any pasta of your choice)

  • 1 lb. chicken breast

  • 1 tbsp. olive oil

  • 3 tbsp. butter

  • 3 tbsp. all-purpose flour

  • 2 cups milk

  • ⅓ cup heavy cream

  • ½ tsp. ground nutmeg

  • ¼ tsp. white pepper

  • 2 tsp. salt (divided)

  • 1 tsp. garlic powder

  • ½ tsp. black pepper

  • 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

  • 2 tbsp. chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

 How to Prepare Chicken Pasta with Béchamel Sauce

This recipe comes together in several simple stages. Each one adds a layer of flavor and texture that makes this dish rich and satisfying.

 Preheat the Oven

  • Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is important so the baking stage is consistent and quick.

 Cook the Pasta

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Use 1 tablespoon of salt per 4 quarts of water for proper seasoning.

  • Add 8 oz. of ziti pasta and cook until al dente, about 8–10 minutes depending on the pasta brand.

  • Drain and set aside. Do not overcook, as the pasta will bake later and absorb the sauce.

 Prepare the Chicken

  • Take 1 lb. chicken breast and slice each piece lengthwise to create thinner cutlets. This reduces cooking time and ensures even doneness.

  • Season the chicken with:

    • 1 tsp. salt

    • 1 tsp. garlic powder

    • ½ tsp. black pepper

 Cook the Chicken

  • In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1 tbsp. olive oil.

  • Place the seasoned chicken in the skillet and sear each side for 4–5 minutes, or until golden brown and fully cooked.

  • Once cooked, transfer to a plate to cool. Then slice into ½-inch bite-sized pieces.

 Make the Béchamel Sauce

This creamy sauce is the foundation of flavor in this dish.

  • In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium.

  • Add 3 tbsp. butter and melt completely.

  • Stir in 3 tbsp. all-purpose flour and whisk constantly for about 30 seconds to form a roux. This eliminates the raw flour taste.

  • Warm 2 cups milk in a separate pan (do not boil) and gradually pour it into the roux, whisking vigorously to prevent lumps.

  • Once smooth, add:

    • ⅓ cup heavy cream

    • 1 tsp. salt

    • ½ tsp. ground nutmeg

    • ¼ tsp. white pepper

  • Continue whisking until the sauce thickens, which should take about 5–7 minutes.

 Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce

  • Add the sliced chicken and cooked pasta into the sauce.

  • Stir everything gently to ensure even coating of the sauce.

 Assemble and Bake

  • If your skillet is oven-safe, simply top the mixture with 1½ cups shredded mozzarella.

  • If not, transfer the pasta-chicken-sauce mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and sprinkle mozzarella evenly on top.

  • Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is golden, melted, and bubbly.

 Garnish and Serve

  • Remove from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving.

  • Sprinkle with chopped parsley for freshness and color.

 Preparation Time & Calories

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes

  • Cook Time: 50 minutes

  • Total Time: 1 hour

  • Calories: Approximately 742 kcal per serving (based on 6 servings)

 Cooking Tips & Customizations

 Cheese Variations

  • Mozzarella is melty and mild, but you can mix in Parmesan for nuttiness or cheddar for sharpness.

  • For a spicy twist, try adding pepper jack or red pepper flakes into the béchamel.

 Chicken Choices

  • If you’re short on time, use store-bought rotisserie chicken.

  • Chicken thighs are more flavorful than breast and remain juicy—just cook and chop as directed.

 Pasta Substitutes

  • Ziti works great, but you can use penne, fusilli, or even elbow macaroni.

  • Want a gluten-free option? Use rice pasta or chickpea pasta.

 Spice It Up

  • Add a dash of paprika, red chili flakes, or even a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the béchamel for a deeper flavor.

 Add Veggies

  • Stir in steamed broccoli, sautéed spinach, or mushrooms for a nutritional boost and added texture.

 Make-Ahead Instructions

  • You can assemble the entire casserole ahead of time, cover, and refrigerate for up to 2 days before baking.

  • You can also freeze it unbaked. When ready to cook, bake it from frozen at 350°F for 50–60 minutes, covered for the first 30 minutes.

 Serving Suggestions

Chicken Pasta with Béchamel Sauce is a rich and satisfying meal on its own, but if you want to round it out, here are a few delicious side options:

  • A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette

  • Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks

  • Steamed green beans or roasted asparagus

  • A glass of chilled white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio

 Storage and Reheating

  • Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

  • Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months.

  • Reheat: Microwave for 2–3 minutes or reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15–20 minutes until warmed through.

 Why You’ll Love This Dish

  • Comforting: Rich béchamel and melted cheese offer unmatched creaminess.

  • Customizable: Use different proteins, pastas, and add-ins to match your taste.

  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble it in advance for a fuss-free dinner later.

  • Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any time you need a guaranteed hit.

Conclusion

This Chicken Pasta with Béchamel Sauce is more than just a meal—it’s a cozy, creamy, soul-warming experience. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, hosting guests, or simply craving something indulgent, this dish is guaranteed to impress. With the balance of tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a silky-smooth béchamel sauce topped with bubbling mozzarella, it’s a dish that feels luxurious but comes together with ease.

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