This Baked Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is a cozy dish that’s perfect for any night. It features juicy chicken, tasty pasta, and gooey melted mozzarella cheese all baked together!
I love how it brings the family together for a cheesy feast. Plus, it’s so easy to throw together—I often make it when I need a quick meal that everyone will enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: This recipe uses penne, but you can easily swap it for ziti, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta. Just ensure you cook it al dente since it will bake further.
Cooked Chicken: I recommend using rotisserie chicken for its convenience, but leftover grilled or baked chicken works too. For a vegetarian option, try using chickpeas or diced tofu instead.
Marinara Sauce: Homemade marinara is fantastic, but store-bought is a great time-saver. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using a marinara with added veggies.
Cheeses: While mozzarella is classic, feel free to mix it up! Try adding provolone or fontina for different flavors. For a lower-fat option, use part-skim mozzarella.
Fresh Herbs: I love using basil or parsley for garnish. If you don’t have these, dried herbs can be used in the sauce for added flavor.
How Do I Ensure the Cheese is Perfectly Golden and Melty?
Getting the cheese just right is key to this dish. Here’s how:
- Use a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan. Parmesan adds a delightful golden crust when baked.
- Spread the cheese evenly over the top so every bite is cheesy.
- If you like extra browning, broil for the last 2-3 minutes. Watch closely to prevent burning!
- Let it rest for a few minutes after baking; this helps the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to serve.
Following these tips will help you achieve wonderfully melted and golden cheese on top!
Baked Chicken Mozzarella Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta Dish:
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 3 cups marinara sauce (can use store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Cooking:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal will take you about 15 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake, making it a total of around 40 minutes from start to finish. A perfect recipe for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it will be nice and hot when you’re ready to pop your dish in!
2. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to the package directions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant—this is the perfect time to add flavor! Next, add the cooked chicken to the skillet and sprinkle with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to mix everything together and warm the chicken.
4. Combine Everything:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken mixture, and marinara sauce. Stir well so the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce and chicken.
5. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Pour the pasta and chicken mixture into a greased baking dish. Make sure it’s spread out evenly for even cooking.
6. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle the top of the dish with the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. This will melt beautifully and create a delightful cheesy crust!
7. Bake:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!
8. Let It Cool and Garnish:
Once out of the oven, allow the dish to cool slightly, about 5-10 minutes. Then, garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a pop of color and flavor before serving.
Enjoy your hearty and cheesy Baked Chicken Mozzarella Pasta! It’s a comforting and satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Can I Use Different Pasta Shapes?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for penne pasta, you can substitute it with ziti, fusilli, or any pasta shape you prefer. Just ensure you cook it until al dente since it will bake further in the oven.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! To make it vegetarian, simply replace the chicken with sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or even chickpeas for protein. Just cook the veggies until tender before mixing them in.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or use the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Can I Freeze This Dish?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked pasta and chicken mixture! Assemble the dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight and then bake as directed. If baking from frozen, increase the baking time by about 10-15 minutes.