Deliciously Cheesy Baked Pasta with Chicken and Chorizo: A Flavorful Delight!

Indulge in the mouthwatering goodness of our Cheesy Baked Pasta with Chicken and Chorizo. This crowd-pleasing dish combines tender chicken, smoky chorizo, and three irresistible kinds of cheese, creating a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more. With a simple preparation and a satisfying bake in the oven, this recipe is perfect for a comforting dinner or a gathering with friends and family.

Ingredients:

- 225 grams of your favorite pasta (penne, fusilli, or choose your preferred shape)

- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

- 115 grams of flavorful chorizo, thinly sliced

- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of olive oil

- 2 cloves of garlic, minced

- 1/2 teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning

- 1/2 teaspoon of smoky paprika

- Salt and pepper, to enhance the taste

- 1 cup of sweet cherry tomatoes, halved for a burst of freshness

- 75 grams of light soft cheese (such as light cream cheese or light ricotta) for a creamy touch

- 3 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese for a delightful tang

- 150 grams of finely chopped mozzarella cheese for a gooey and stretchy finish

- Fresh basil leaves, optional, for a vibrant garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook your pasta of choice according to the package instructions until perfectly al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Preheat your oven to 180°C  for the ideal baking temperature.

3. heat 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of olive oil over medium heat in a large frying pan. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and the savory chorizo slices. Sauté them until the chicken is beautifully browned and cooked through, and the chorizo develops a slight crispiness. This process should take around 6-8 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken and chorizo from the pan and set them aside.

4. In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, minced garlic, dried Italian seasoning, and smoky paprika. Sauté the mixture for about 1 minute, allowing the delightful aromas to infuse.

5. Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the pan and cook them for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften. Season with salt and pepper to suit your taste preferences.

6. Return the cooked chicken and chorizo to the pan, ensuring that all the flavors meld together perfectly.

7. Add the cooked pasta to the pan and toss everything together, ensuring that each pasta strand is well coated in the delectable mixture.

8. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish, spreading it evenly to create an enticing presentation.

9. In a small bowl, combine the light soft cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. Spoon dollops of this creamy cheese mixture over the pasta, adding a luxurious touch to each bite.

10. Sprinkle the finely chopped mozzarella cheese over the top, creating a golden and irresistibly gooey crust.

11. Bake the dish in the preheated oven for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbly, and the pasta is heated through.

12. Remove the tantalizing creation from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. If desired, garnish with fresh basil leaves to add a vibrant pop of color.

With its cheesy goodness, smoky chorizo, and tender chicken, our Cheesy Baked Pasta with Chicken and Chorizo will surely be a hit. Whether you're hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself

For this flavorful and cheesy baked pasta with chicken and chorizo, a medium-bodied red wine would be an excellent choice to complement the richness and bold flavours of the dish. Consider pairing it with a Syrah/Shiraz or a Chianti. These wines have enough depth and tannins to stand up to the meaty elements while providing a fruity and spicy profile that will enhance the overall dining experience. The wine's acidity will also help cut through the richness of the cheese and bring balance to the dish. Enjoy the combination of the robust flavors in the pasta with the nuances of the chosen red wine for a truly delightful culinary experience.

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