This Baked Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is a comforting dish with juicy chicken, pasta, and melty mozzarella cheese. It’s like a warm hug on your plate!
You can’t go wrong with cheesy goodness! I love how it combines flavors and is super easy to whip up for dinner. Perfect for feeding the family or impressing guests!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: I love using penne for its sturdy shape, which holds onto the sauce well. If you don’t have penne, any other tubular pasta like rigatoni or ziti works beautifully. You can even use gluten-free pasta if needed!
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish. For a quicker option, rotisserie chicken is perfect and adds extra flavor without the hassle of cooking it from scratch. Shredded chicken also mixes in nicely.
Marinara Sauce: You can use store-bought marinara sauce to save time, but homemade is always a treat! If you’re looking for a twist, try using Alfredo sauce or roasted red pepper sauce instead.
Cheese: Mozzarella cheese gives that gooey goodness. You can mix it with provolone for more flavor or use low-fat cheese if you’re watching calories. For a sharper taste, consider adding some grated Parmesan or Pecorino.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken breasts can sometimes be tricky, but here are a few tips to keep it juicy and flavorful:
- Start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces. This helps it cook evenly.
- Season generously with salt, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Don’t be shy; this adds flavor!
- Cook over medium heat, allowing it to brown without burning. Stir occasionally to keep it from sticking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Once you nail the chicken, your pasta bake will shine! Enjoy every cheesy bite.
Baked Chicken Mozzarella Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pasta:
- 12 oz penne pasta
For The Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For The Sauce:
- 2 cups marinara sauce
For The Cheese:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15-20 minutes of prep time and 20-25 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll need approximately 45-50 minutes to enjoy a warm, cheesy meal with your loved ones!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that it’s hot and ready when your dish goes in for baking!
2. Cook the Pasta:
In a large pot, cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente (slightly firm to the bite). Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the chicken.
3. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the bite-sized pieces of chicken to the skillet. Sprinkle the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper over the chicken. Stir well to combine the flavors. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through, which should take about 6-8 minutes.
4. Combine Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, the sautéed chicken, and the marinara sauce. Stir until everything is well coated with the sauce.
5. Assemble the Dish:
Next, transfer the pasta and chicken mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. Top it generous with shredded mozzarella cheese, making sure it covers the entire surface.
6. Bake:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. The cheese should be melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, carefully remove the dish from the oven. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Enjoy your warm, cheesy Baked Chicken Mozzarella Pasta with family and friends! It’s a meal full of flavor and comfort. Bon appétit!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is great for this recipe, you can substitute with any pasta shape you have on hand, such as rotini, rigatoni, or even gluten-free pasta. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you’re using!
How Can I Make This Dish Healthier?
For a healthier twist, consider using whole wheat pasta or adding extra vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to the mix. You can also use skinless chicken thighs for more moisture or reduce the cheese for lower fat content.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can! You can assemble the pasta and chicken combination ahead of time, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will be cold from the refrigerator.
What Should I Serve with Baked Chicken Mozzarella Pasta?
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or some garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Steamed vegetables or a light vegetable stir-fry would also enhance the meal with added nutrition!