This Herb & Cheese Quick Bread is the ultimate comfort food, bursting with savory flavors and perfect for a cozy meal. With melty cheese, tender chicken, and pasta all baked together, this dish is hearty, satisfying, and incredibly easy to make. The best part? It’s ready in just 35 minutes, making it a great option for a weeknight dinner that everyone will love!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe combines the richness of cheese, the heartiness of chicken, and the comfort of pasta into one delicious dish. The quick bread-style bake is easy to prepare, and the result is a cheesy, bubbly meal that is sure to please both kids and adults alike. It’s perfect for those busy nights when you need a filling, flavorful dinner without spending too much time in the kitchen. Plus, the extra cheese on top adds that irresistible gooey finish that makes this dish even better.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
- 1 cup cooked chicken
- 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or rotini works best)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, and cheese.
- Stir in milk and butter, seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Pour the mixture into a baking dish and top with extra cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
- Serve immediately.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4
Variations
- Add Veggies: For a veggie-packed version, mix in some spinach, bell peppers, or onions to the pasta mixture.
- Spicy Version: Add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to give the dish an extra kick.
- Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda, provolone, or pepper jack for a unique twist.
- Gluten-Free: Swap the pasta for gluten-free penne or rotini to make this dish gluten-free.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warm and bubbly.
FAQs
1. Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Yes, this recipe is a great way to use up leftover chicken. Just shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces and add it to the mixture.
2. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the dish ahead of time, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if necessary.
3. Can I add a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite pasta, whether it’s spaghetti, fusilli, or even macaroni, for a different texture and shape.
4. Can I make this dish without cheese?
While cheese is what makes this dish so creamy and flavorful, you could make a lighter version without cheese. You could substitute with a dairy-free cheese or use Greek yogurt for creaminess.
5. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the chicken and replace it with another plant-based protein, like chickpeas or tofu, and you have a vegetarian option!
6. Can I freeze this dish?
Yes! You can freeze the prepared dish before baking. Just wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to cook, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
7. How do I make the bread more crispy on top?
For a crispier top, broil the dish for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Just be sure to watch it closely to avoid burning.
8. Can I add more cheese to the topping?
Of course! If you love cheese, feel free to add extra cheese on top for an extra gooey, cheesy finish.
9. Can I use milk alternatives like almond milk?
Yes, you can use any milk alternative, such as almond milk or oat milk. Just make sure it’s unsweetened and plain to keep the flavor balanced.
10. How do I serve this dish?
This hearty dish is perfect on its own, but you can serve it with a simple side salad or some steamed veggies for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Herb & Cheese Quick Bread is the perfect comforting dish to satisfy your hunger and your taste buds. With creamy cheese, tender chicken, and pasta baked together in one dish, it’s a meal that’s simple to make yet full of flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or looking for a filling meal prep idea, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite! Enjoy a hearty, delicious meal with minimal effort!
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Herb & Cheese Quick Bread
This Herb & Cheese Quick Bread combines the creamy goodness of cheese, tender chicken, and hearty pasta into a savory, comforting meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this cheesy, bubbly dish is ready in just 35 minutes and is sure to become a family favorite. Make it your own by adding veggies, switching up the cheese, or creating a spicy twist!
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
- 1 cup cooked chicken
- 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or rotini works best)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, and cheese.
- Stir in the milk and melted butter, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour the mixture into a baking dish and top with extra cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- For a veggie-packed version, add spinach, bell peppers, or onions.
- Spice it up with diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
- Experiment with different cheese varieties such as gouda, provolone, or pepper jack.
- To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta.
- If you need to make it vegetarian, substitute the chicken with chickpeas or tofu.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
