This Baked Chicken Mozzarella Pasta is a cozy dish that brings together tender chicken, creamy mozzarella, and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s like a warm hug on a plate!
I love how cheesy and satisfying this meal is. Plus, it’s easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd! Just mix, bake, and enjoy—dinner is served!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: I love using rotini because its spirals hold onto the sauce perfectly. If you don’t have rotini, feel free to use penne or fusilli for the same delicious effect.
Chicken Breasts: Diced chicken breast is a great option here. If you prefer, leftover rotisserie chicken works well and cuts down on prep time, giving you a taste that’s just as good!
Marinara Sauce: You can use store-bought for convenience, but homemade is always a nice touch! If you want a kick, try adding some crushed red pepper flakes to your sauce.
Cheese: Mozzarella is my go-to for its gooey meltiness. For a twist, you can mix in some provolone or even cheddar. And if you run low on Parmesan, nutritional yeast is a great dairy-free substitute!
How Do I Make Sure the Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking the chicken well is crucial for this dish. Here’s how to make sure it’s juicy and flavorful:
- Start with medium heat to avoid burning the outside while the inside remains undercooked.
- Season generously with salt, pepper, and oregano right before cooking for better flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; this helps with even cooking. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Use a meat thermometer! Chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Baked Chicken Mozzarella Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta and Chicken:
- 12 oz rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
- 2 large chicken breasts, diced
For the Saucy Goodness:
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
For the Cheesy Toppings:
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Other Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious bake will take about 15 minutes to prepare, and then you’ll bake it for 20-25 minutes. So, in total, you’re looking at around 40 minutes—quick enough for a weeknight dinner and comforting enough for the whole family!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake the pasta! Boil a large pot of salted water. Once boiling, cook the pasta according to package instructions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). Drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Cook the Chicken:
While the pasta is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken to the pan, seasoning it with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is browned and cooked through. You want it to be nice and tender!
3. Add Garlic:
Once your chicken is cooked, add the minced garlic to the pan. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. It smells amazing already!
4. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Remove your skillet from the heat and mix in the marinara sauce with the chicken. Stir well to combine everything!
5. Mix Pasta and Sauce:
In a large mixing bowl, combine your cooked pasta with the chicken and marinara mixture. Give it a good stir to make sure the pasta is nicely coated.
6. Assemble in a Baking Dish:
Transfer half of the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Then, add the remaining pasta mixture, followed by the rest of the mozzarella and the grated Parmesan cheese on top.
7. Bake it Up:
Pop the baking dish into the oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown.
8. Cool and Garnish:
After baking, let it cool for a few minutes. Then, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness!
9. Serve and Enjoy!
Dig in and enjoy your warm, cheesy, and comforting baked chicken mozzarella pasta! Perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for the week ahead.
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a healthier alternative that adds extra fiber. If you’re going gluten-free, choose a gluten-free pasta variety that you enjoy—just follow the cooking instructions on the package for best results.
What Can I Substitute for Marinara Sauce?
If you want to mix it up, consider using Alfredo sauce for a creamy version or pesto for a fresh twist! If using homemade sauces, be sure they’re thick enough to hold on to the pasta and chicken.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. If it seems dry, a splash of marinara or a bit of olive oil can help moisten it!
Can I Freeze Baked Chicken Mozzarella Pasta?
Definitely! You can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Just prepare it up to the baking step, cover it tightly with foil, and freeze. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight and then bake as instructed. Enjoy your easy meal prep!
