- Bechamel sauce (white sauce base for creamy texture)
- Heavy cream (for smooth consistency and richness)
- Milk (to create the bechamel sauce)
- All-purpose flour (thickens the sauce)
- Unsalted butter (essential for bechamel sauce)
- Salt (seasoning)
- Black pepper (seasoning, adds flavor)
- Garlic cloves (optional, for added depth of flavor)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish and additional freshness)
- Olive oil (optional, for sautéing vegetables)
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### Chicken Artichoke Mostaccioli in Bechamel Sauce Pasta Recipe
Chicken artichoke mostaccioli is a delightful dish that combines the creamy texture of bechamel sauce with the rich flavors of chicken and artichokes, served atop hearty pasta like mostaccioli. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner party or a family meal. Follow these detailed steps to create this sumptuous Italian-inspired dish.
#### Ingredients:
- 200g (7 oz) mostaccioli pasta
- 150g (5.3 oz) boneless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
- 2 medium artichokes, trimmed and chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
#### Preparation Steps:
1. **Prep Ingredients:**
- Rinse the mostaccioli pasta and set aside.
- Chop the artichokes into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they are thoroughly cleaned to remove any tough parts.
2. **Cook Pasta:**
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the mostaccioli and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
3. **Prepare Chicken and Artichokes:**
- In a large pan, heat 1/4 cup olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chicken pieces and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until lightly browned on all sides. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
4. **Add Artichokes:**
- To the same pan, add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant but not brown.
- Add the chopped artichokes and cook for about 5 minutes until they start to soften. Return the chicken to the pan and stir well.
5. **Make Bechamel Sauce:**
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
- Gradually whisk in 1/2 cup of heavy cream, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens slightly into a smooth bechamel sauce. Season with dried basil for extra flavor.
6. **Combine Ingredients:**
- Mix the cooked pasta into the chicken and artichoke mixture.
- Stir through the bechamel sauce until well combined and heated through.
7. **Serve:**
- Transfer the mostaccioli to serving plates.
- Top each portion with a generous amount of grated Parmesan cheese and shredded mozzarella.
- Broil for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
8. **Enjoy:**
- Serve immediately while still warm. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
#### Tips:
- Use high-quality ingredients for best results, particularly in the bechamel sauce.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste, especially with the chicken and artichokes.
- Consider using a mix of cheeses like Gruyère or Fontina alongside Parmesan for extra flavor.
By following these steps, you'll create a delicious Chicken Artichoke Mostaccioli in Bechamel Sauce that will impress your guests. Use keywords like "bechamel sauce," "mostaccioli pasta," and "artichokes" to enhance the SEO of this recipe. Enjoy making and eating this delightful dish!