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Baked Pasta with Chicken and Potato Chip Topping

This baked pasta dish combines cooked dried noodles with shredded leftover chicken and melting cheese, baked until bubbly and golden. The final dish has a crispy, cheesy crust with a tender interior, enhanced by a crunchy top layer of crushed potato chips. It is a simple, improvisational meal that offers a satisfying blend of textures and flavors.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz dried pasta (penne or rotini) uncooked
  • 1 cup shredded cooked chicken leftover or cooked beforehand
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella) for topping and mixing
  • 1 cup crushed potato chips for topping
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for sautéing
  • 1/2 cup milk or cream optional, for creaminess
  • to taste salt and pepper

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Baking dish
  • Mixing bowl
  • Oven
  • Fork or spoon for mixing

Method
 

  1. Boil a large pot of water, add a pinch of salt, and cook the pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, minced garlic, milk or cream, half of the shredded cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well.
    8 oz dried pasta (penne or rotini)
  3. In the large pot used for boiling, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the garlic until fragrant and golden, about 1 minute, then add the cooked pasta and cheese mixture. Stir until the pasta is coated and heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
    8 oz dried pasta (penne or rotini)
  4. Transfer the pasta mixture into a baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top. Then, evenly distribute the crushed potato chips as a crunchy topping.
    8 oz dried pasta (penne or rotini)
  5. Place the baking dish in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Bake until bubbling and golden on top, about 15-20 minutes. The cheese should be melted and the chips crispy.
  6. Remove from oven and let sit for a few minutes before slicing and serving, ensuring the toppings are crispy and the cheese is gooey.