Craving a hearty and delicious meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights? Look no further than this amazing Chicken Pasta Bake recipe! Not only is it packed with flavor, but it’s also a crowd-pleaser that will have your family coming back for seconds. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or an experienced home cook, this recipe is perfect for you. Ready to dive into the world of creamy, cheesy, and flavorful chicken pasta? Read on for all the details, tips, and tricks to perfect your chicken pasta bake!
What is Chicken Pasta Bake?
Chicken Pasta Bake is a comforting casserole-style dish that combines tender pasta, juicy chicken, and a flavorful sauce, all baked to perfection. It’s a versatile recipe that can be customized with different ingredients, sauces, and cheeses to suit your taste. The beauty of a pasta bake is that it’s easy to prepare in advance, making it an excellent choice for meal prep or for serving a hungry crowd. It’s the ultimate comfort food, combining everything we love about pasta and baked casseroles in one dish.
Ingredients List for Chicken Pasta Bake
To make the best Chicken Pasta Bake, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Pasta: 300-400 grams of pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work best)
- Chicken breasts: 2 medium-sized chicken breasts, diced
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons, for cooking the chicken
- Garlic: 2-3 cloves, minced
- Onion: 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- Bell peppers: 1-2 (any color), chopped
- Marinara sauce: 2 cups of your favorite pasta sauce
- Heavy cream: ½ cup, to make the sauce creamy
- Mozzarella cheese: 1 ½ cups, shredded
- Parmesan cheese: ½ cup, grated
- Italian seasoning: 1 teaspoon
- Salt and pepper: To taste
- Fresh basil (optional): Chopped, for garnish
These ingredients will create a rich, savory, and satisfying chicken pasta bake that your family and friends will love.
Ingredients List for Sauce Variations
While the classic version of Chicken Pasta Bake features marinara sauce and a touch of cream, you can switch things up with these sauce variations:
- Alfredo Sauce: Replace the marinara sauce with 1 ½ cups of Alfredo sauce for a creamier, richer taste.
- Pesto Sauce: Use ½ cup of pesto sauce mixed with 1 ½ cups of cream or half-and-half for a zesty, herby twist.
- Tomato-Basil Sauce: Substitute the marinara with a chunky tomato-basil sauce to elevate the freshness of the dish.
Feel free to get creative with the sauce based on your personal preferences or what you have in the pantry.
Substitutions and Variations
This Chicken Pasta Bake recipe is highly customizable, so you can easily adjust it to suit dietary preferences or simply mix things up. Here are some popular substitutions and variations:
- Protein Options: Instead of chicken, try using ground beef, turkey, or Italian sausage. For a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant.
- Pasta Types: While penne or rigatoni are ideal, you can use any short pasta like ziti, farfalle, or even macaroni.
- Cheese Choices: Mozzarella and Parmesan are classic choices, but you can mix in cheddar, gouda, or even a bit of blue cheese for a stronger flavor profile.
- Vegetables: Add in some extra veggies like spinach, broccoli, or even sun-dried tomatoes to boost the nutritional value and add flavor.
These simple swaps can completely transform your Chicken Pasta Bake and keep the dish exciting every time you make it.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making this Chicken Pasta Bake is easier than you think! Follow these step-by-step instructions to ensure you get a delicious meal every time.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking.
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add your pasta, and cook until al dente according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Cook the chicken: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the chopped onions, garlic, and bell peppers. Cook until softened, about 4-5 minutes.
- Make the sauce: Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet with the sautéed veggies. Stir in the heavy cream and Italian seasoning. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes until well combined.
- Combine everything: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, and sauce. Stir in 1 cup of mozzarella cheese.
- Assemble the bake: Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish: Remove the pasta bake from the oven and garnish with fresh basil, if using. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
How to Cook Chicken Pasta Bake: A Step-by-Step Guide
To recap, here’s a more streamlined guide to cooking Chicken Pasta Bake:
- Cook your pasta to al dente and set aside.
- Brown the chicken until fully cooked, and set aside.
- Sauté onions, garlic, and bell peppers until soft.
- Make the sauce by combining marinara and cream, and simmer.
- Mix pasta, chicken, and sauce in a large bowl, then transfer to a baking dish.
- Top with cheese and bake until bubbly and golden.
- Serve and enjoy your delicious Chicken Pasta Bake!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even with an easy recipe like Chicken Pasta Bake, there are a few common pitfalls to avoid:
- Overcooking the pasta: Be sure to cook your pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Dry bake: If your pasta bake comes out too dry, you likely didn’t use enough sauce. Make sure your pasta is well-coated before baking.
- Undercooked chicken: Always check that your chicken is fully cooked before adding it to the bake.
- Cheese overload: While we all love cheese, adding too much can make the bake greasy. Stick to the recommended amounts for the best texture.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Serving Chicken Pasta Bake is a breeze, but presentation can make it even more appetizing. Here are some serving and presentation tips:
- Portion sizes: Serve in individual portions on plates or bowls. You can top each portion with a little extra Parmesan for a nice finishing touch.
- Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh basil, parsley, or oregano adds a pop of color and freshness.
- Sides: Pair your Chicken Pasta Bake with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
How to Serve Chicken Pasta Bake
For a family-style meal, place the baking dish in the center of the table and let everyone serve themselves. If you’re hosting a dinner party, consider plating individual servings for a more polished presentation.
Presentation Ideas for Chicken Pasta Bake
To elevate the presentation, serve the Chicken Pasta Bake in a beautiful ceramic or glass baking dish. You can also top it with extra cheese during the last few minutes of baking, then broil it briefly for a golden, crispy top.
Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe Tips
- Make it ahead: You can prepare the pasta bake ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Freezer-friendly: This dish freezes well. Simply assemble it, cover tightly with foil, and freeze. When ready to cook, thaw overnight and bake as instructed.
- Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use whole wheat pasta?
Yes! Whole wheat pasta is a great option for a healthier version of this dish.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely. Just use gluten-free pasta and make sure your sauces are gluten-free as well.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, feel free to add veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini.
How long can I freeze Chicken Pasta Bake?
You can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just be sure to wrap it tightly to avoid freezer burn.
Conclusion
This Chicken Pasta Bake recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to customize and prepare. Whether you're making it for a busy weeknight dinner or as a make-ahead meal for guests, this recipe is sure to impress. With its tender chicken, creamy sauce, and bubbly cheese, it’s the perfect comfort food for any occasion. So grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a hearty, flavorful dish that everyone will love!
PrintThe Best Easy Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe
The Best Easy Chicken Pasta Bake is a delicious, cheesy casserole made with tender chicken, pasta, tomatoes, and herbs, all baked to perfection. This family-friendly dish is an ideal go-to recipe for busy weeknights, offering hearty comfort food without much fuss. Layered with melted cheese and savory seasonings, it’s a satisfying, one-pan meal that everyone will love. Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete dinner.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner, Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, cubed
- 12 oz penne pasta (or any pasta of choice)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook pasta according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix together cooked chicken, diced tomatoes, marinara sauce, garlic powder, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Add cooked pasta to the mixture and toss to combine.
- Transfer everything to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly on top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
- You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Add veggies like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
- This dish freezes well for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about ⅙th of the casserole)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 780mg
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