Mozzarella Chicken and Linguine Casserole

Mozzarella Chicken and Linguine Casserole Recipe from Italy

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Mozzarella Chicken and Linguine Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that combines tender chicken, flavorful tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese. This casserole is perfect for a family dinner or a potluck gathering.

History

This recipe is a modern twist on classic Italian flavors. The combination of chicken, linguine, tomato sauce, and mozzarella cheese is a popular choice in Italian-American cuisine. The casserole format makes it easy to serve a crowd and is a great way to use up leftover chicken.

Ingredients

3 cloves of garlic, crushed
1 tbsp of cooking oil
1-2 lb (907 g) of boneless chicken
1 lb (454 g) of linguine
16 oz (454 g) of tomato sauce
1 cup of hot water
4 oz (113 g) of sliced mushrooms, drained
salt and pepper to taste
4 oz (113 g) of mozzarella cheese

How to prepare

In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until browned.
Add chicken to the skillet and cook for 3 minutes on each side. Remove from heat.
Meanwhile, cook linguine according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a separate bowl, combine tomato sauce, hot water, and mushrooms.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
In a casserole dish, layer the ingredients as follows: one-third of the sauce mixture, drained linguine, another one-third of the sauce mixture, cooked chicken, remaining sauce mixture, and mozzarella cheese.
Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and bake the casserole for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Variations

Add diced bell peppers or spinach to the sauce mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
Use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or Parmesan, for a different flavor profile.
Substitute ground turkey or beef for the chicken for a different protein option.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to brown the garlic before adding the chicken to the skillet to enhance the flavor of the dish.

- Cooking the chicken for 3 minutes on each side ensures that it is cooked through but still tender.

- Layering the ingredients in the casserole dish helps to distribute the flavors evenly throughout the dish.

- Preheating the oven to 325°F (163°C) ensures that the casserole cooks evenly and the cheese melts to perfection.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Mozzarella Chicken and Linguine Casserole with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the garlic before adding the chicken enhances the flavor of the dish.

- Layering the ingredients in the casserole dish ensures that the flavors are evenly distributed.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use any type of pasta in place of linguine, such as spaghetti or fettuccine.

- Substitute chicken broth for the hot water for added flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if the casserole is cold from the refrigerator.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the casserole with fresh basil or parsley before serving for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Mozzarella Chicken and Linguine Casserole with a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Mozzarella Chicken and Linguine Casserole contains approximately 400 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Mozzarella Chicken and Linguine Casserole contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Mozzarella Chicken and Linguine Casserole contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Mozzarella Chicken and Linguine Casserole contains approximately 30 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese) and wheat (linguine) allergens.

Summary

Mozzarella Chicken and Linguine Casserole is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Mozzarella Chicken and Linguine Casserole is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a potluck gathering. With a balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals, this casserole is a nutritious and flavorful meal option.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I knew it was something special. It was a dreary day in the middle of winter, and I had just finished rearranging my recipe collection when I stumbled upon a faded index card tucked away in the back of the box. It was written in delicate script, with splatters of tomato sauce and olive oil staining the edges.

As I read through the ingredients and instructions, I could practically taste the rich flavors and textures that promised to burst forth from this dish. Mozzarella Chicken and Linguine Casserole. The name alone sounded like a symphony of flavors, a perfect marriage of pasta, cheese, and savory chicken.

I had never heard of this recipe before, and I had no idea where it had come from. But something about it called out to me, beckoning me to try it out. So, I gathered the necessary ingredients and set to work in my cozy kitchen.

As I chopped the garlic and onions, sautéed the chicken in a fragrant blend of herbs and spices, and boiled the linguine to al dente perfection, I felt a sense of excitement building within me. This dish was going to be something special, I could just feel it in my bones.

Once everything was prepared, I assembled the casserole in a large baking dish, layering the ingredients just as the recipe had instructed. I topped it off with a generous sprinkling of mozzarella cheese and popped it into the oven to bake.

The aroma that filled my kitchen as the casserole cooked was nothing short of heavenly. The scent of melting cheese, roasted chicken, and garlic-infused tomato sauce mingled together in a tantalizing dance that made my stomach growl with anticipation.

Finally, the timer dinged and I pulled the casserole out of the oven. The cheese was bubbly and golden, the chicken tender and juicy, and the linguine perfectly cooked. I scooped out a heaping serving onto my plate and took my first bite.

Oh, what a revelation! The flavors exploded in my mouth, each bite a perfect balance of cheesy, savory, and comforting. I savored every mouthful, reveling in the joy of discovering a new favorite recipe.

After that first taste, I knew that Mozzarella Chicken and Linguine Casserole would become a staple in my cooking repertoire. I made it for family dinners, potlucks with friends, and even for special occasions like birthdays and holidays. Each time, it was met with rave reviews and requests for the recipe.

Over the years, I have made this dish countless times, each time tweaking the recipe to suit my own tastes and preferences. I have added mushrooms, spinach, and even a touch of white wine to the sauce. I have experimented with different cheeses, herbs, and seasonings. But no matter how I change it up, the essence of the dish remains the same – a comforting, hearty meal that warms the soul and brings people together.

As I write this story now, looking back on all the memories and moments that Mozzarella Chicken and Linguine Casserole has brought to my life, I am filled with gratitude for the simple pleasures of cooking and sharing good food with loved ones. This recipe may have come to me by chance, but it has become a cherished part of my culinary journey, a reminder of the joy that can be found in a delicious meal shared with those we hold dear. And for that, I am forever grateful.