Chicken Kiev Pasta Bake: 7 Delicious Reasons to Make This Comforting Casserole Tonight

If you love cozy pasta dishes and crave the buttery, garlicky richness of classic Chicken Kiev, then this Chicken Kiev Pasta Bake is going to become your new go-to weeknight dinner. It combines everything you adore about golden chicken cutlets and herb-infused butter with the ease and heartiness of baked pasta. Packed with tender chicken, al dente pasta, crispy breadcrumbs, and a hint of garlic, this Chicken Kiev Pasta Bake brings comfort food to the next level.

This recipe is especially perfect for families, meal preppers, and anyone who loves satisfying chicken and pasta recipes no cream but with plenty of flavor. It also doubles beautifully as one of those genius leftover chicken and pasta recipes when you’re trying to make use of ingredients already in your fridge.

Whether you’re a fan of traditional Chicken Kiev, love a good chicken and cavatappi pasta bake, or need a one-dish wonder that delivers in both taste and texture, this dish is it. For more one-pan comfort meals, be sure to check out our popular Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole or Ultimate Steak Bake Recipe.

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What Is Chicken Kiev Pasta?

Chicken Kiev Pasta is a baked pasta dish inspired by the iconic Eastern European Chicken Kiev. Traditionally, Chicken Kiev features breaded chicken breast rolled around a garlic herb butter center, then pan-fried or baked. This recipe reimagines that buttery, garlicky flavor as a hearty casserole packed with pasta, shredded chicken, herbs, and a golden topping of breadcrumbs.

It’s essentially the comfort food upgrade of chicken cutlets and pasta—all the buttery goodness, with none of the frying. And since this version is baked, it’s hands-off once assembled, which means less cleanup and more time enjoying your meal.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Kiev Casserole Recipe

There’s so much to love about this Chicken Kiev Casserole Recipe. First, it’s incredibly easy to assemble. No complicated techniques—just simple ingredients and straightforward steps. Second, it’s an excellent use of leftover chicken or rotisserie meat, making it budget-friendly and time-saving.

The buttery breadcrumbs mimic the crisp coating of classic Kiev, while garlic, parsley, and seasoning infuse the dish with layered flavor. Unlike some pasta bakes that rely on heavy cream, this recipe proves that chicken pasta recipes no cream can still be rich and satisfying.

Lastly, it’s a one-pan dish, so if you love a good one pan chicken and pasta meal, you’ll appreciate the minimal cleanup and hearty portions.

Ingredients for Chicken Kiev Pasta Bake

Here’s what you’ll need to make this mouthwatering Chicken Kiev Pasta Bake:

• 12 oz pasta (cavatappi, penne, or fusilli)
• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella (optional)
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter (for breadcrumb topping)

You can easily swap the mozzarella for another mild cheese or skip it altogether for a lighter version. The key is the garlic-herb butter, which delivers all the signature flavor of traditional Chicken Kiev.

Essential Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

To prepare this recipe efficiently, make sure you have the following:

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Medium skillet for making garlic butter
• Mixing bowls
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

A food processor or knife may also be handy for chopping parsley finely. These tools will help you bring this chicken breast and noodles recipe together without stress.

How to Make Chicken Kiev Pasta Step-by-Step

1. Boil the pasta: Cook your pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Make garlic herb butter: In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in chopped parsley, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Combine with chicken: In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta with shredded chicken and the garlic butter sauce. If you’re using cheese, fold in mozzarella now.
4. Assemble the bake: Transfer everything into your greased baking dish. In a small bowl, toss panko breadcrumbs with olive oil or melted butter. Sprinkle over the pasta evenly.
5. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until the top is golden and crispy.
6. Serve: Garnish with extra parsley if desired and serve warm.

This recipe is perfect on its own but also works well with sides like our Peach Feta Salad or Pineapple Cucumber Salad for a light and fresh contrast.

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Tips for Making the Best Chicken and Cavatappi Pasta

Use cavatappi or any pasta with ridges—they hold onto the garlic butter better. Make sure the pasta is al dente, as it will continue cooking in the oven. Don’t skip seasoning the pasta water—it’s your first chance to layer flavor.

If you want extra creaminess without dairy, reserve a bit of pasta water and mix it with the butter sauce before combining everything. This keeps your chicken and cavatappi pasta moist and flavorful without adding cream.

Variations: Chicken Cutlets and Pasta, Cream-Free Options & More

There are plenty of ways to customize this dish to your dietary preferences or ingredients on hand:

• Use breaded chicken cutlets for a more traditional Chicken Kiev texture
• Replace butter with a dairy-free alternative for a lactose-light version
• Add chopped spinach, mushrooms, or peas for extra nutrients
• Swap pasta for gluten-free alternatives
• Omit the cheese entirely to keep it aligned with chicken pasta recipes no cream

This recipe is just as flexible as it is flavorful, making it perfect for experimentation.

What to Serve with Chicken Kiev Pasta Bake

Since this is a hearty, savory dish, it pairs beautifully with fresh and vibrant sides. Try a mixed green salad with lemon vinaigrette or a vegetable-forward dish like our Easy Spinach-Stuffed Potatoes. For a cozy winter pairing, serve it with roasted carrots or steamed broccoli.

Garlic bread is a natural choice too, especially to scoop up any leftover garlic butter in your bowl.

How to Use Leftovers: Chicken and Pasta Reinvented

Got leftovers? This recipe reheats like a dream and is a fantastic example of leftover chicken and pasta recipes done right.

You can:

• Pack portions into lunch containers with fresh veggies
• Turn leftovers into baked pasta cups using a muffin tin
• Add a little broth and turn it into a hearty pasta soup
• Mix with eggs and bake into a savory frittata

These leftover options ensure nothing goes to waste—and your meal planning stays on point.

Common Mistakes to Avoid with Chicken Pasta Recipes

Avoid overcooking your pasta—it should be al dente when you bake it. Make sure to evenly coat the pasta in garlic butter so every bite is flavorful. Don’t forget to taste and season your sauce before baking. Undersalted dishes often fall flat.

Also, use panko breadcrumbs for a light, crispy topping instead of regular breadcrumbs, which can become soggy.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftover pasta bake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, place in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes or microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring occasionally.

You can also freeze this dish. Just wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Chicken Pasta Recipes No Cream: Can It Be Done?

Absolutely. In fact, this Chicken Kiev Pasta Bake is proof that chicken pasta recipes no cream can be every bit as rich and comforting. The garlic herb butter replaces the need for cream, creating a sauce that clings to the pasta and brings moisture and depth.

For a creamier version, feel free to add a splash of milk or a spoonful of sour cream—but it’s completely optional.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Kiev Pasta

Can I use rotisserie chicken in Chicken Kiev Pasta Bake?
Yes! Using rotisserie chicken is one of the easiest ways to cut down on prep time when making Chicken Kiev Pasta Bake. It adds convenience and great flavor.

What pasta is best for Chicken Kiev Pasta Bake?
We recommend cavatappi, penne, or fusilli. These shapes hold onto the garlic butter and herbs, giving you the perfect bite in every forkful of your Chicken Kiev Pasta Bake.

Can I freeze Chicken Kiev Pasta Bake?
Absolutely. Prepare your Chicken Kiev Pasta Bake in advance, wrap it tightly, and freeze before baking. It can be baked directly from frozen—just add an extra 10–15 minutes to your cook time.

Is it possible to make Chicken Kiev Pasta Bake dairy-free?
Yes. Swap out the butter for a dairy-free version and omit the cheese. You’ll still get that rich garlic flavor that makes Chicken Kiev Pasta Bake irresistible.

Final Thoughts + CTA to Share and Subscribe

This Chicken Kiev Pasta Bake is everything you want in a comforting, family-style meal. It brings the indulgent flavors of Chicken Kiev together with the ease of baked pasta. Whether you’re looking for a new one pan chicken and pasta dinner, a way to repurpose leftover chicken, or a rich dish that doesn’t rely on cream, this recipe has you covered.

Loved it? Share this recipe with friends and subscribe to our blog at RecipeSize.com for more crowd-pleasing meals like Cheesy Enchilada Tortellini or Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni.

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