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A delicious and comforting Cheesy Chicken Pasta Bake sits ready to be served, showcasing golden-brown cheese and creamy sauce.

ULTIMATE CHEESY CHICKEN PASTA BAKE

This Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Pasta Bake is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for family dinners. It combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, a rich marinara sauce, creamy ricotta, and a generous topping of melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, baked to golden-brown perfection.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 750
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound pasta penne, rotini, or your favorite shape
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg, lightly beaten
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil optional, for garnish

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Large Skillet
  • Medium bowl
  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Mixing spoons
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain well and set aside.
  3. While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken, salt, and pepper. Cook until chicken is cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
  4. Add onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
  5. Stir in marinara sauce. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes.
  6. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well.
  7. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, chicken, and marinara sauce. Stir to coat.
  8. Spread half of the pasta mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish. Spoon ricotta mixture evenly over the pasta. Top with remaining pasta mixture.
  9. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
  10. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly and lightly golden brown.
  11. Let stand for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil, if desired.

Notes

For best results, cook pasta al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy during baking. Season the chicken generously for added flavor. A combination of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese provides both stretch and a rich, browned topping. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrients.