This Baked Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is a cozy dish that combines juicy chicken, creamy mozzarella, and tender pasta all baked together. It’s like a warm hug on a plate!
I love how the cheese gets all melty and bubbly. It makes me feel like a chef every time! Plus, it’s easy enough to whip up on a busy night. Enjoying this with garlic bread is the best!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: Penne works great for this dish because its shape holds the sauce well. If you don’t have penne, feel free to use ziti, rigatoni, or any pasta you have on hand!
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are easy to cook and perfect here, but you can substitute turkey or even cooked rotisserie chicken for extra convenience.
Marinara Sauce: Store-bought is quick, but homemade adds a personal touch. For a twist, try using a creamy Alfredo sauce instead for a richer flavor.
Cheese: Mozzarella is essential for that gooey texture. You can mix it up with provolone or a sprinkle of smoked gouda for something different. Use nutritional yeast if you’re keeping it dairy-free!
How Do You Ensure the Chicken Stays Tender and Flavorful?
Cooking the chicken properly is key to keeping it juicy. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use medium-high heat to get a nice golden crust quickly.
- Make sure the chicken pieces are of even size for consistent cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; give them space to brown nicely. If needed, cook in batches.
- Always allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking—this helps lock in the juices.
With these tips and the exact ingredients, you’ll have a baked pasta dish that’s not just warm and cheesy but also full of flavor. Enjoy cooking!
Baked Chicken Mozzarella Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz penne pasta
For the Chicken:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
For the Sauce and Cheese:
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Garnish:
- Fresh basil, thinly sliced (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and 25-30 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll need around 45-50 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your pasta bakes perfectly when you’re ready to pop it in!
2. Cook the Pasta:
Boil a pot of water and cook the penne pasta as per the package instructions until it’s al dente (just firm to the bite). Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
3. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken, seasoning it with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sauté the chicken for about 6-8 minutes until it’s cooked through and golden brown. Then, toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until you can smell it.
4. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, mix together the cooked pasta, the sautéed chicken, garlic, and marinara sauce. Stir well to make sure everything is coated in that delicious sauce.
5. Layer It Up:
Take a greased baking dish and spoon half of the pasta mixture into it. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top. Then, stack the remaining pasta mixture and top it with the rest of the cheeses.
6. Bake the Dish:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll want to see that beautiful cheese bubbling and turning slightly golden on top.
7. Final Touches:
Once it’s done, carefully remove it from the oven, and let it sit for about 5 minutes. This resting time helps to set everything up just perfectly.
8. Serve & Enjoy:
Garnish your Baked Chicken Mozzarella Pasta with freshly sliced basil leaves before serving. Enjoy this comforting dish with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad!
Your warm, cheesy, and delightful Baked Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is ready to be devoured!
Can I Use Different Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While penne is great because it holds sauce well, you can substitute it with any pasta shape you have, such as fusilli, rotini, or even spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time as needed based on the type of pasta you choose!
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini. You can also use a plant-based protein, like tofu or tempeh, for added texture and nutrition.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or bake it in the oven until heated through, adding a splash of marinara sauce to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Just swap the penne pasta with a gluten-free pasta alternative. The cooking process remains the same, so you’ll end up with a delicious gluten-free version of this comforting dish!
