Creamy Tarragon Chicken Pasta Bake
This Creamy Tarragon Chicken Pasta Bake is a delightful and comforting casserole that brings together tender chicken, aromatic tarragon, and rich creamy flavors. With just a few simple ingredients, you'll have a mouthwatering dish that's perfect for family gatherings or meal prep. It's easy to make, hearty, and can be halved for smaller portions. Simply combine everything, pop it in the oven, and enjoy the enticing aroma as it bakes to perfection.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
cream of chicken soup
2 (cans (10 3/4 ounces each))
half-and-half cream
2 (cups)
dried tarragon
4 (teaspoons)
black pepper
1/2 (teaspoon)
linguine or spaghetti
1 (package (16 ounces), cooked and drained)
cubed cooked chicken
6 (cups)
grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 (cup)
paprika
to taste (optional)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, half-and-half cream, dried tarragon, and pepper until well combined.
3
Gently fold in the cooked linguine or spaghetti and cubed cooked chicken until evenly coated with the sauce.
4
Transfer the mixture into an ungreased 4-quart baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
5
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the casserole.
6
If desired, add a dash of paprika for extra flavor and color.
7
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and bubbly.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Tarragon Chicken Pasta Bake?
It is a comforting casserole that combines tender chicken, aromatic tarragon, and a rich creamy sauce with pasta.
What kind of soup is used in this recipe?
The recipe uses two 10.75-ounce cans of cream of chicken soup.
How much half-and-half cream is required?
You will need 2 cups of half-and-half cream.
What is the recommended amount of tarragon?
The recipe calls for 4 teaspoons of dried tarragon.
How much black pepper should I add?
Use 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper.
What types of pasta can be used?
You can use a 16-ounce package of either linguine or spaghetti.
Should the pasta be cooked before baking?
Yes, the pasta should be cooked and drained before being added to the mixture.
How much chicken is needed for this dish?
The recipe requires 6 cups of cubed cooked chicken.
What kind of cheese is used for the topping?
A half-cup of grated Parmesan cheese is sprinkled over the top.
Is paprika a required ingredient?
No, paprika is optional and can be added to taste for extra flavor and color.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
How long does the pasta bake need to stay in the oven?
Bake it for 30 minutes or until it is heated through and bubbly.
What size baking dish should I use?
A 4-quart baking dish is recommended for this recipe.
Do I need to grease the baking dish?
No, the instructions specify using an ungreased baking dish.
How do I make the sauce for the bake?
Whisk together the cream of chicken soup, half-and-half, dried tarragon, and pepper in a large mixing bowl.
How do I combine the ingredients?
Gently fold the cooked pasta and cubed chicken into the whisked sauce until they are evenly coated.
Can I halve this recipe for a smaller group?
Yes, the recipe can be easily halved for smaller portions.
Is this dish good for meal prepping?
Yes, it is noted as being perfect for family gatherings or meal prep.
What flavor does the tarragon provide?
Tarragon provides a unique aromatic flavor that complements the creamy chicken and pasta.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 8 total ingredients, including the optional paprika.
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Yes, as long as it is cubed and measures 6 cups, rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving option.
How do I know when the casserole is finished cooking?
The casserole is done when it is heated through and the edges are bubbly.
Is this a hearty meal?
Yes, the combination of pasta, chicken, and cream makes it a very hearty and filling dish.
Can I use fresh tarragon instead of dried?
The recipe specifies dried tarragon, but fresh could be used if adjusted for potency (typically 3 times more fresh than dried).
Should I cover the dish with foil while baking?
The instructions do not mention covering the dish, allowing the cheese to brown slightly.
What is the preparation for the chicken?
The chicken should be pre-cooked and then cut into cubes.
What is the preparation for the Parmesan cheese?
The Parmesan cheese should be grated before sprinkling it over the casserole.
Is this recipe considered easy to make?
Yes, it involves simple steps like whisking, folding, and baking, making it an easy recipe.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
Tags include chicken, casserole, tarragon, pasta, comfort food, and family meal.
Can I use other pasta shapes like penne?
While linguine and spaghetti are suggested, other shapes like penne would also work well with the creamy sauce.