The Best Easy Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe
The Best Easy Chicken Pasta Bake is a comforting dish loaded with tender chicken, al dente pasta, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this quick recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings for a cheesy, hearty meal. With minimal prep and a family-friendly flavor, this chicken pasta bake will be a go-to dish in your recipe collection.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup ricotta or cottage cheese (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, marinara sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Add the cooked pasta to the chicken mixture and toss until evenly coated.
- Spread half the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Add a layer of ricotta or cottage cheese (optional) and sprinkle with half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
- Add the remaining pasta mixture on top and sprinkle with the remaining cheeses.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh basil, if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
- You can use any pasta shape for this recipe.
- For added vegetables, mix in spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
- This dish freezes well, making it a great make-ahead meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 950mg