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Baked Chicken Parmesan Pasta

Baked chicken parmesan pasta in a white baking dish with melted mozzarella and fresh basil
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This baked chicken parmesan pasta is a comforting family-friendly dinner that combines juicy chicken, al dente penne, and rich marinara sauce all topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan. Ready in 45 minutes and perfect for weeknights or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 8 oz penne pasta or pasta of your choice
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (low-moisture preferred)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated recommended)
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces in a single layer and season with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through to an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.
  4. Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for one minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
  5. Pour in the marinara sauce and stir to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 2 to 3 minutes.
  6. Add drained pasta to the skillet and stir until everything is evenly coated in the sauce.
  7. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Top evenly with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
  8. Bake uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly. For a golden crispy top, broil for the last 2 to 3 minutes, watching closely.
  9. Let the dish rest for 2 to 3 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired and serve hot.

Notes

  • Make sure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F before combining with pasta.
  • For a spicy kick, stir a pinch of red pepper flakes into the marinara sauce.
  • Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and delivers more flavor than pre-packaged varieties.
  • When reheating leftovers, add a splash of water or extra marinara to keep the pasta moist.
  • Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.benefitiany.com/baked-chicken-parmesan-pasta/