Get ready to transform your weeknight dinner into a restaurant-worthy experience with this mouthwatering Italian Baked Chicken and Pasta! Imagine tender, perfectly seasoned chicken nestled in al dente pasta, smothered in rich marinara sauce, and topped with a golden, bubbling cheese crust that will have your family racing to the dinner table. This one-dish wonder combines the classic flavors of Italian cuisine with the convenience of a baked casserole, promising a meal that's both impressive and incredibly easy to prepare.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 pound boneless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your chicken and pasta bake cooks evenly.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the chicken. Pat the boneless chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Sear the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta and marinara sauce. Stir well to ensure that the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Add the sliced chicken to the pasta and sauce mixture, stirring gently to combine. This will allow the flavors to meld together.
- Transfer the pasta and chicken mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the pasta and chicken mixture. This will create a delicious, cheesy crust as it bakes.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is lightly golden.
- Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. This will make it easier to serve.
- Garnish with additional Italian seasoning or fresh herbs, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your Italian Baked Chicken and Pasta!
Tips
- For maximum flavor, use high-quality marinara sauce or make your own from scratch. The sauce is the heart of this dish!
- Don't overcook the pasta - aim for al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly in the oven. This prevents mushy pasta.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches exactly 165°F (75°C) for perfect doneness and food safety.
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow the cheese to set and make serving easier.
- For extra richness, you can add a splash of heavy cream to the marinara sauce before mixing with pasta.
- Experiment with different cheese blends - try adding some provolone or fontina for a more complex flavor profile.
- Prep this dish ahead of time and refrigerate before baking - it's perfect for make-ahead meals!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 573kcal
Carbohydrates: 66g
Protein: 42g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 38mg
