This Baked Chicken Mozzarella Pasta brings a cozy vibe to dinner time! With tender chicken, creamy mozzarella, and pasta all baked together, it’s warm and comforting.
I love how easy it is—just mix everything in a baking dish, pop it in the oven, and let it do its magic. Plus, who can resist gooey cheese? It’s a win-win! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I prefer using penne for this bake because its shape holds the sauce beautifully. However, you can swap it for any pasta like rotini, shells, or even gluten-free pasta if needed!
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work great here, but you can also use thighs for a richer flavor. If you’re looking for a faster option, shredded rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver.
Marinara Sauce: A good marinara sauce adds depth to the dish. Feel free to use your favorite brand, or you can make a quick homemade version using canned tomatoes, garlic, and herbs. It’ll taste even fresher!
Cheese: While mozzarella is a classic choice, you can play around with cheeses. Try provolone for a sharper taste or even a dairy-free cheese if you’re looking for plant-based options.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Juicy and Well-Cooked?
Getting perfectly cooked chicken is essential for this dish. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a skillet preheated over medium-high heat. This helps sear the chicken for flavor.
- Cut your chicken into small, even pieces. This ensures they cook evenly and quickly.
- Cook the seasoned chicken for just 5-7 minutes. Once they’re golden brown and cooked through, remove them from the heat.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! Cook in batches if necessary to avoid steaming instead of searing.
Following these tips will keep your chicken juicy, adding great flavor to your baked pasta dish!
Baked Chicken Mozzarella Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta and Chicken:
- 12 oz penne pasta (or your favorite pasta)
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Sauce and Cheese:
- 3 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Seasoning:
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or mix of basil, oregano, thyme)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious baked chicken mozzarella pasta will take about 15 minutes for prep time, plus 25 minutes to bake. So in total, you’re looking at around 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial as it prepares the oven to cook the pasta dish evenly and perfectly.
2. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. When 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-high heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces into the skillet, then season them with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it turns golden brown and is fully cooked through.
4. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, the cooked chicken, and the marinara sauce. Mix everything well until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated in the sauce. Ensure no pasta is left dry!
5. Assemble in Baking Dish:
Transfer the pasta and chicken mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. This helps with even cooking and melting of the cheese.
6. Add Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the pasta mixture. This will create a delicious cheesy layer as it bakes.
7. Bake:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. You will know it’s ready when the cheese is melted, bubbly, and starting to brown slightly.
8. Cool and Garnish:
Once out of the oven, allow the pasta to cool for a few minutes. This gives it a chance to set a bit. Before serving, garnish with some freshly chopped parsley for an added burst of color and flavor!
9. Serve and Enjoy!
Dish out generous portions, serve warm, and enjoy your comforting baked chicken mozzarella pasta with family and friends. It’s sure to be a favorite!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way is to leave it overnight in the refrigerator. If you’re short on time, you can quickly thaw it in the microwave, but be careful not to start cooking it in the process.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables! Consider using bell peppers, zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms for added flavor. For additional protein, you could include some cooked chickpeas or black beans.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. You might want to add a splash of marinara sauce if the pasta seems dry.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the entire dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re starting with a cold dish out of the fridge.