Why Make This Recipe
Cheesy Chicken Pasta Bake is a comforting and delicious meal that brings together juicy chicken, cheesy goodness, and pasta in a single dish. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any gathering where you want to impress your guests. This recipe is simple yet satisfying, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends.
How to Make Cheesy Chicken Pasta Bake
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast
- Salt
- Pepper
- Garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp parsley flakes
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/3 cup flour
- 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 24 oz jar pasta sauce
- 8 oz pasta
- 1 cup ricotta
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Parmesan cheese (for topping)
- Parsley (fresh or dried, for topping)
Directions
- Cut the chicken into small bite-sized pieces. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- In a bowl, mix the flour, Parmesan cheese, and seasonings.
- Cook the pasta according to package directions.
- Coat the chicken pieces in the flour mixture.
- Melt butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet.
- Reduce the heat to low. Add minced garlic and the jar of pasta sauce to the skillet. Stir well.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Stir to combine.
- Drop spoonfuls of ricotta cheese on top.
- Add the cooked chicken and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in the oven at 400 degrees for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Top with additional Parmesan cheese and parsley flakes before serving.
How to Serve Cheesy Chicken Pasta Bake
Serve the Cheesy Chicken Pasta Bake hot from the oven. You can pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Sprinkle a bit more parsley on top for a fresh touch before serving.
How to Store Cheesy Chicken Pasta Bake
To store leftovers, let the dish cool and then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag. It will be good for up to 3 months.
Tips to Make Cheesy Chicken Pasta Bake
- Feel free to substitute the chicken with cooked ground turkey or beef if you prefer.
- You can add vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or gouda, if you want to change the taste a bit.
Variation
For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the chicken seasoning. You can also try using a different type of pasta, like penne or rotini, to add variety to the dish.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare everything in advance and bake it just before serving.
What can I serve with this dish?
It goes great with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Cheesy Chicken Pasta Bake
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast Cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt To taste
- Pepper To taste
- Garlic powder To taste
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp parsley flakes
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/3 cup flour
- 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 24 oz pasta sauce Jarred
- 8 oz pasta Cooked according to package directions
- 1 cup ricotta
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Parmesan cheese For topping
- Parsley Fresh or dried, for topping
Instructions
Preparation
- Cut the chicken into small bite-sized pieces. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- In a bowl, mix the flour, Parmesan cheese, and seasonings.
- Cook the pasta according to package directions.
- Coat the chicken pieces in the flour mixture.
Cooking
- Melt butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet.
- Reduce the heat to low. Add minced garlic and the jar of pasta sauce to the skillet. Stir well.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Stir to combine.
- Drop spoonfuls of ricotta cheese on top.
- Add the cooked chicken and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in the oven at 400 degrees for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Top with additional Parmesan cheese and parsley flakes before serving.