If you’re craving a comforting, cheesy, and creamy dish, this Creamy Brazilian Chicken Pavê Bake is exactly what you need. Layers of tender shredded chicken in a rich sauce, optionally topped with mashed potatoes, and finished with a golden cheesy crust make it a family favorite that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Brazilian Chicken Pavê Bake
This Brazilian-inspired bake is the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors. The shredded chicken absorbs the richness of the creamy sauce, while the optional mashed potato layer adds an extra touch of comfort. Topped with melted mozzarella and cheddar, this dish is hearty, satisfying, and ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or special occasions. Plus, it’s flexible—easy to adapt for dietary preferences or available ingredients.
Ingredients for Creamy Brazilian Chicken Pavê Bake
Chicken Mixture
- 2 chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup cooking cream
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt to taste
Topping
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated cheese (cheddar or similar)
Optional Layer
- 2 cups mashed potatoes
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Ingredient Notes
- Milk & Cream: Use whole milk and light cooking cream for maximum richness, or swap with plant-based alternatives for dairy-free versions.
- Cheese: A mix of mozzarella and cheddar gives the perfect gooey melt and sharp flavor. Nutritional yeast works for a vegan version.
- Chicken: Shredded turkey, chicken thighs, or jackfruit (for vegetarian) can substitute chicken breasts.
- Mashed Potatoes: Optional, but they add a creamy, filling layer that complements the chicken sauce beautifully.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Grease a baking dish with a little olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2 – Sauté Aromatics
In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft and fragrant.
Step 3 – Cook the Chicken
Add the shredded chicken to the pan. Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Cook for another 3–4 minutes until the chicken is heated through and coated with spices.
Step 4 – Make the Creamy Sauce
Sprinkle the flour over the chicken mixture and stir well. Gradually add milk while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Once combined, add the cooking cream and simmer gently until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.
Step 5 – Assemble the Bake
Spread a layer of the creamy chicken mixture evenly in the greased baking dish. If using, add a smooth layer of mashed potatoes on top.
Step 6 – Add Cheese Topping
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated cheddar evenly over the top. Make sure the cheese layer covers the entire surface for that perfect golden crust.
Step 7 – Bake
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
Step 8 – Serve
Remove from the oven and let the bake rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Pro Tips for Success
- Avoid Dry Chicken: Use cooked chicken breasts or thighs that are tender and moist.
- Smooth Sauce: Stir constantly when adding milk to prevent lumps.
- Cheese Layer: Cover the edges with cheese to prevent the sauce from drying out.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the bake a few hours in advance and refrigerate; bake just before serving.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for a subtle kick.
Flavor Variations
- Vegetarian: Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or jackfruit.
- Spicy: Add chopped green chilies or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
- Herb-Infused: Mix fresh thyme, oregano, or rosemary into the creamy chicken sauce.
- Cheese Lover: Use a mix of mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan for extra richness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this bake with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. It also pairs wonderfully with garlic bread or a fresh tomato salsa for a complete meal.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze the assembled bake before baking for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding 10–15 extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Reheating: Microwave single servings or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Carbs | 18 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | 480 mg |
FAQ About Creamy Brazilian Chicken Pavê Bake
What is pavê in Brazilian cuisine?
Pavê is traditionally a Brazilian dessert made of layered biscuits with cream, similar to tiramisu. This savory version adapts the layered concept for chicken, mashed potatoes, and creamy sauce.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the layers and refrigerate until ready to bake. Baking fresh ensures a bubbly, golden cheese topping.
Can I use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely. Pre-cooked chicken speeds up preparation and works perfectly in this recipe.
Is this dish gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, substitute the flour with a gluten-free option like rice flour or cornstarch for the sauce.
Can I freeze leftovers after baking?
Yes, store cooled leftovers in airtight containers or freezer-safe dishes. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Easy Spiced Grilled Chicken with Rice & Fresh Salad
Equipment
- medium pot
- grill pan or skillet
- mixing bowl
- knife
- cutting board
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup white rice
- 2 cups water
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 lemon, juiced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- salt and black pepper, to taste
- fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Rinse 1 cup of rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- In a medium pot, combine rice with 2 cups water and ½ teaspoon salt.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Remove from heat, let it rest 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
- Preheat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Rub chicken breasts with olive oil, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Grill for 6–7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and golden brown.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
- In a bowl, combine diced tomatoes, sliced cucumber, and chopped red onion.
- Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.
- Season with salt and pepper and toss gently.
- Place a serving of rice on each plate.
- Arrange sliced chicken next to the rice.
- Add the fresh salad and sprinkle chopped parsley over the top.
- Serve warm and enjoy your balanced, flavorful meal.
Notes
Nutrition
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Brazilian Chicken Pavê Bake is a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that’s easy to make, customizable, and full of flavor. Whether for a family dinner or special occasion, the combination of creamy chicken, optional mashed potatoes, and melted cheese delivers a satisfying dish that everyone will love.