Chicken and Chorizo Pasta Casserole
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Category: One Dish Meal
Servings: 1 casserole (approx. 4 servings)
Keywords: Pork, Meat, Gluten-Free, Beginner Cook, Easy, <60 Mins
Description:
This hearty Chicken and Chorizo Pasta Casserole is a perfect balance of bold flavors and comfort. Whether you enjoy the robust spice of chorizo or are looking for a savory, satisfying dish, this casserole is sure to hit the spot. While I made it without vegetables or cheese, I believe adding them would elevate this dish even more. This recipe is incredibly versatile—you can make it gluten-free or regular to suit dietary preferences. It’s a great option for both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs alike, combining simple ingredients for a delicious one-dish meal!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chorizo sausage | 200g |
| Green onion | 1 |
| Fresh cilantro | 1/4 cup |
| Spiral-shaped pasta | 1/4 pound |
| Mozzarella cheese | 1 cup |
| (Optional) Vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini) | 1 cup |
| Cooked chicken breast (shredded) | 1 cup |
| Pasta sauce (e.g., Classico Fire-Roasted Tomato & Garlic) | 100g |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 568.2 |
| Fat | 23.9g |
| Saturated Fat | 8.2g |
| Cholesterol | 70.2mg |
| Sodium | 949mg |
| Carbohydrates | 55.5g |
| Fiber | 2.5g |
| Sugar | 6.8g |
| Protein | 30.4g |
Instructions
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Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a pot of water to a boil. Add your spiral-shaped pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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Prepare the Chorizo: While the pasta is cooking, thinly slice the chorizo sausage into rounds. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the chorizo until it is browned and cooked through, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Once done, remove the chorizo from the pan and drain any excess fat.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large casserole dish, combine the cooked pasta, your favorite pasta sauce, shredded cooked chicken, and the chorizo. Add in the chopped green onions and cilantro for freshness. If you’re including vegetables (like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach), fold them in at this stage.
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Add Cheese: Top your casserole with a generous layer of shredded mozzarella cheese, which will melt and create a delicious, gooey topping. If you prefer a dairy-free or lower-fat option, feel free to skip this step or use a lighter cheese.
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Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for 35-40 minutes, or until it is hot throughout and the cheese is melted and bubbly. The top should be slightly golden brown and the aroma should be mouthwatering.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, remove from the oven and allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish pairs wonderfully with a light salad or some crusty bread. Enjoy the rich, savory flavors of the chorizo and the comforting pasta in every bite!
Gluten-Free Modifications
To make this dish gluten-free, you can easily swap the ingredients that contain gluten:
- Chorizo: I used Freybe Wine Chorizo, which is gluten-free, but make sure to double-check the label of any chorizo you buy.
- Pasta: I used Tinkyada Rice Pasta Spirals, a fantastic gluten-free pasta option that holds up well in casseroles.
- Pasta Sauce: Classico’s Fire-Roasted Tomato & Garlic pasta sauce is naturally gluten-free, but be sure to verify the ingredient list if using a different brand.
Tips for Customizing This Dish
- Add Vegetables: Feel free to toss in some sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, or even some spinach for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Use Different Meats: If you’re not a fan of chicken, you can substitute with turkey or even ground beef for a slightly different taste.
- Spice it Up: For extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño along with the chorizo.
- Top with Fresh Herbs: For an added burst of flavor, sprinkle fresh basil or parsley over the casserole just before serving.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken and Chorizo Pasta Casserole is an easy, flavorful, and customizable one-dish meal that’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. It combines the rich, smoky flavor of chorizo with tender pasta and savory chicken, all topped with melty cheese. Whether you stick with the original recipe or make it your own with veggies and cheese, it’s bound to be a hit with the whole family!
