I remember the first time I made Jamie Oliver’s Chicken and Chorizo Pasta Bake. I was looking for something hearty but not too complicated to impress my friends for a casual dinner. I came across the recipe and thought it sounded perfect-easy, flavorful, and filling. When I took that first bite, I was hooked. The smoky chorizo and tender chicken combined with a rich, cheesy sauce was a flavor explosion I didn’t expect. It became one of my go-to dishes, and I’ve shared it at many gatherings since.
Now, let’s dive into the details of this mouthwatering recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Jamie Oliver’s Chicken And Chorizo Pasta Bake Recipe
Jamie’s Chicken and Chorizo Pasta Bake is everything you want in a dish: comfort, flavor, and ease. It’s a perfect mix of savory chorizo, juicy chicken, and a creamy pasta base, all topped with melty cheese. It’s one of those recipes that makes you feel like a pro chef, yet it’s simple enough to make on a weekday night.
Here’s the thing: it’s so much more than just a pasta bake. The balance of textures and flavors is what sets this dish apart. You get the crunch of the breadcrumbs, the creaminess of the sauce, and the rich flavors from the chorizo and chicken. Plus, it’s super customizable, making it versatile for a variety of tastes.
Ingredients Needed
When it comes to making this dish, having the right ingredients is key. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken breast or thighs: I prefer using thighs because they stay juicy and tender, but either works fine.
- Chorizo: The smoky, spicy sausage adds so much flavor. You can go for a mild or spicy version depending on your preference.
- Pasta: Short pasta shapes like penne or rigatoni hold onto the sauce better.
- Onions and garlic: These form the base of the dish’s flavor.
- Tomato passata: Gives a rich, tomatoey base to the sauce.
- Double cream: Makes the sauce velvety and creamy.
- Cheese: Mozzarella and cheddar are the classics. They melt beautifully on top and add that golden, cheesy goodness.
- Breadcrumbs: For the crunchy topping that contrasts with the creamy pasta underneath.
- Herbs and spices: A little oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper to bring everything together.
- Olive oil: For sautéing the chorizo, chicken, and aromatics.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Chicken And Chorizo Pasta Bake
The best part about this recipe is how easy it is to put together. I love recipes that don’t have too many steps but still deliver a ton of flavor. Here’s how to make it:
- Preheat the oven: Set it to 200°C (or 180°C for fan ovens) so it’s nice and hot when your pasta bake is ready to go in.
- Cook the pasta: Boil your pasta in salted water until al dente. It will cook further in the oven, so you don’t want to overdo it here.
- Prepare the chicken and chorizo: Dice the chicken and slice the chorizo into small pieces. Heat some olive oil in a pan, then cook the chorizo until it’s crispy and releases its oils. Add the chicken and brown it.
- Add the aromatics: Toss in the onion and garlic and cook until they soften and become fragrant.
- Make the sauce: Stir in the tomato passata and a little cream. Let it simmer until everything’s combined and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, making sure it’s all coated.
- Layer and bake: Transfer everything into a baking dish. Sprinkle the cheese and breadcrumbs on top. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden and bubbling.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
Ever wonder why chorizo works so well in this pasta bake? Let me explain. Chorizo is packed with fat and spice, which gives it that wonderful smoky flavor and crispy texture when you fry it up. The fat from the chorizo also infuses the sauce, adding a depth of richness that chicken alone can’t deliver.
Then there’s the double cream. Cream is great at carrying flavors and balancing acidity, especially from the tomato. It adds a smoothness to the sauce, making each bite feel luxurious. And when you combine it with cheese, the sauce becomes thick, creamy, and irresistibly cheesy as it melts into the pasta.
Also, the breadcrumbs on top play a crucial role in texture. They get crispy in the oven, providing a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy pasta below.
Expert Tips
To make this dish even better, here are a few tips I’ve picked up along the way:
- Don’t overcook the pasta: As mentioned, the pasta will cook more in the oven. You want it to have a bit of bite before you bake it.
- Use a mix of cheeses: Mozzarella adds that gooey melt, while cheddar brings sharpness and flavor. A combo is perfect!
- Caramelize the onions: Take the extra few minutes to really cook your onions down. It brings out their natural sweetness, balancing the savory flavors of the chorizo.
- Add fresh herbs: If you have thyme or oregano, sprinkle some on top before baking for extra fragrance and flavor.
- Spice level: You can adjust the heat by choosing a mild or hot chorizo. If you like a bit of a kick, go for the spicy variety!
Recipe Variations
One of the reasons this dish is so loved is its flexibility. Here are a few ways you can change it up:
- Vegetarian version: Swap the chicken and chorizo for a mix of roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms. You can add smoked paprika to mimic the flavor of chorizo.
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs. It’s just as tasty and works wonderfully with this dish.
- Add some greens: Throw in some spinach or kale when you combine the pasta and sauce for an extra dose of veggies.
- Add bacon: If you’re a bacon fan, try swapping out the chorizo for crispy bacon. It adds a different level of smokiness.
Final Words
I can’t say enough about how satisfying this dish is. It’s simple yet packs a ton of flavor, making it a crowd-pleaser every time. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or prepping for a casual get-together, this recipe hits all the right notes.
I also love that it’s a great make-ahead meal. You can prep everything the day before, pop it in the fridge, and bake it off the next day-perfect for when you’re short on time but still want something impressive.
FAQs
What Ingredients Do I Need For Jamie Oliver’s Chicken And Chorizo Pasta Bake?
You’ll need chicken breasts, chorizo, pasta, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic, onions, tomatoes, and a few basic spices like paprika and oregano.
Can I Use Other Types Of Meat Instead Of Chicken In This Recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the chicken with turkey or even beef, though chicken works best for the texture and flavor.
How Long Should I Bake The Pasta Dish For?
Bake the dish at 200°C (180°C fan) for about 20 minutes or until the top is golden and crispy.