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Homemade Cheesy Chicken Pasta Bake recipe photo

Cheesy Chicken Pasta Bake

This Cheesy Chicken Pasta Bake is a crowd-pleaser! Combining tender chicken, pasta, and a medley of cheeses, it’s the ultimate comfort food!
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Cheesy, Comfort Food, Easy
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

Ingredients:

  • 8 oz penne pasta
  • 1 lb chicken breast cubed
  • 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil for serving

Instructions

Instructions:

  • Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add a generous pinch of salt. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • Step 2: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken breast and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sauté the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, or until cooked through. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  • Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, drained penne pasta, and marinara sauce. Mix in ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until everything is well coated.
  • Step 4: Pour the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top.
  • Step 5: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
  • Step 6: Once out of the oven, let the Cheesy Chicken Pasta Bake cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil before serving. Enjoy!

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Skillet
  • Baking Dish
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Oven

Notes

  • Use leftover or rotisserie chicken to save time.
  • Add red pepper flakes for a spicier kick.
  • This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge before baking.
  • Experiment with fresh herbs like oregano or thyme for added flavor.