Tandoori Chicken Pasta

This cheesy Tandoori Chicken Macaroni is the ultimate comfort food, combining flavorful tandoori chicken, creamy pasta, and lots of melted cheese.

We love finding new ways to use tandoori chicken, and this pasta bake has become one of our favorites. It combines those bold, familiar flavors with creamy pasta and plenty of melted cheese for a comforting meal that’s always a hit.

This classic cheesy pasta bake gets a flavorful twist with chicken marinated in a homemade tandoori spice blend, a creamy white sauce, and plenty of melted cheese. Baked until golden and bubbly, it’s a comforting fusion dish that’s rich, satisfying, and perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or feeding a crowd!

Ingredients & Notes

• Chicken: Boneless chicken cubes make this pasta hearty and satisfying. They soak up the tandoori marinade and stay tender after baking. You can use either chicken breast or thighs.
• Tandoori Masala: The key flavoring in this dish adds warm spices, tanginess, and plenty of savory depth. We use our homemade tandoori masala blend for this recipe!
• Kashmiri Chili Powder: a mild chili powder, while optional, this spice is perfect for adding a vibrant red color to the chicken without too much heat. If you want, you can substitute it with paprika, but adding too much may slightly change the flavor.
• Pasta: Rotini pasta in this dish holds onto the sauce and flavorful chicken, making every bite deliciously cheesy. You can also use elbow or small shell pasta, any shape that helps hold onto the sauce well!
• Mozzarella Cheese: Mozzarella creates a gooey, melty topping that makes this baked pasta extra comforting. You can also use cheddar or Gouda for a richer, sharper flavor, like in a classic mac and cheese.

How to make Tandoori Chicken Pasta?

Marinate the Chicken

Combine the chicken, tandoori masala, lemon juice, and Kashmiri chili powder. Marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight for the best flavor.

Cook the Chicken

Cook the marinated chicken in oil until fully cooked and lightly browned.

Make the White Sauce

Melt the butter, stir in the flour, then add the milk and cook until the sauce is smooth and thickened.

Boil the Pasta

Cook the macaroni according to the package directions. Drain and return it to the pot.

Mix Everything Together

Add the cooked chicken and white sauce to the pasta, then stir until well combined.

Assemble the Bake

Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle the cheese evenly over the top.

Bake Until Golden

Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly, then broil briefly for a golden-brown finish.

Rest and Serve

Let the pasta cool for a few minutes before serving and enjoy.

Recipe Tips

• Marinate the chicken for a few hours or overnight if possible. The extra time allows the tandoori flavors to fully develop.
• Cook the pasta just until al dente, since it will continue cooking slightly in the oven.
• Grate your own cheese for the best melt and texture.
• Keep an eye on the pasta while broiling to prevent the cheese from burning.
• Let the pasta dish rest for a few minutes after baking so it can set before serving.
• If cooking for a crowd, assemble the pasta bake and refrigerate it. Bake before serving.

Storage Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat individual portions in the microwave until warmed through.
• For larger portions, reheat in a 350°F (180°C) oven until hot and bubbly.
• If the pasta seems dry after storing, add a splash of milk before reheating.

Variations

• Use a Different Cheese: Swap the mozzarella for cheddar, gouda, or a combination of cheeses for a different flavor profile.
• Make it Spicier: Add extra Kashmiri chili powder or a pinch of red pepper flakes for more heat.
• Try Another Pasta Shape: Penne, rotini, or shells work just as well as macaroni.
• Add Vegetables: Stir in peas, bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra color and texture.
• Skip the Baking: Mix the pasta, chicken, sauce, and cheese together and serve immediately for a quicker stovetop version.

Serving Suggestions

Serve it with a simple kachumber salad and a side of green chutney for a fresh, flavorful contrast to the rich, cheesy pasta. Together, they make an easy meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

Recipes you’ll love

If you’re looking for more easy weeknight dinner ideas, here are some of our favorites:

• Chicken Chow Mein
• Keema Aloo: Pakistani Ground Beef & Potato Curry

If you give this recipe a try, we’d love to see it! Tag us on Instagram @thespicemess