This Baked Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is a comforting dish that combines juicy chicken, cheesy mozzarella, and hearty pasta all in one. It’s creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-delicious!
I love how easy this dish is to make! Just mix everything together and let the oven do the magic. It’s a perfect meal for busy weeknights when you want something tasty without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: This is the classic choice for baked pasta dishes, but if you don’t have it, feel free to substitute with rigatoni, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta if needed. The key is to use a pasta shape that holds the sauce well.
Chicken Breast: Boneless, skinless chicken is perfect for quick cooking. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use turkey breast, or for a vegetarian spin, try diced mushrooms or canned chickpeas instead.
Marinara Sauce: A good quality marinara makes a big difference. If you don’t have marinara, crushed tomatoes or homemade tomato sauce work beautifully. Just season them with Italian herbs!
Mozzarella Cheese: Fresh mozzarella gives the best texture, but shredded mozzarella is convenient. You could mix in cheeses like provolone or cheddar for fun flavor combinations, too.
Ricotta Cheese: This adds creaminess and richness. If you don’t have ricotta, cottage cheese or even cream cheese can be used as a substitute, adding a different, yet delightful, creamy texture.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Cooked Just Right?
Cooking the chicken correctly is crucial for this dish. Here’s how to get perfectly cooked chicken:
- Cut the chicken into even bite-sized pieces for consistent cooking.
- Cook on medium-high heat to get a good sear. This also locks in moisture.
- Make sure the chicken is cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy if you’re unsure.
- Avoid overcrowding the skillet. If needed, cook the chicken in batches to ensure even cooking.
Avoid overcooking, as it can make the chicken tough. Follow these tips, and you’ll have moist and flavorful chicken in your pasta!
Baked Chicken Mozzarella Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz penne pasta
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of basil, oregano, thyme)
For the Sauce:
- 2 cups marinara sauce
For the Cheese:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese (optional for added creaminess)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or basil leaves, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for preparation and around 25 minutes for baking, so you can have a delicious meal ready in about 40 minutes total. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake the pasta.
2. Cook the Pasta:
Boil water in a large pot and add the penne pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (cooked but still firm to the bite). After cooking, drain the pasta and set it aside.
3. Prepare the Chicken:
While the pasta cooks, grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute until fragrant. Next, add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
4. Add the Sauce:
Once the chicken is cooked, reduce the heat to low. Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet and stir it together with the chicken. Let it heat through for a few minutes.
5. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the chicken and marinara sauce mixture. If you’re using ricotta cheese, add it now and mix everything together until well combined.
6. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Grease a baking dish with a little oil or cooking spray. Pour the pasta mixture into the dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously on top.
7. Bake:
Place the dish in the hot oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted, bubbly, and just beginning to turn golden brown.
8. Serve:
Once it’s done baking, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil before serving to add a burst of color and flavor.
Enjoy this delicious, cheesy baked chicken mozzarella pasta!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta Instead of Regular Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat penne is a great option and provides more fiber. Just be sure to watch the cooking time, as it may need a minute or two longer than regular pasta to reach al dente.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Allow the baked chicken mozzarella pasta to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Yes! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables for added nutrition and flavor. Spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini work wonderfully. Sauté them along with the chicken or mix them into the pasta before baking.
Is It Possible to Make This Recipe in Advance?
Definitely! You can prepare everything up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate it for up to a day. When you’re ready to cook, just bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.