Why Make This Recipe
Baked Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a fantastic meal that combines the comfort of pasta with the delicious flavors of chicken parmesan. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re looking to impress guests without spending all day in the kitchen. This one-dish meal is hearty, satisfying, and sure to please everyone at the table.
How to Make Baked Chicken Parmesan Pasta
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or rigatoni)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, marinara sauce, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Top with mozzarella cheese and sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
How to Serve Baked Chicken Parmesan Pasta
Serve Baked Chicken Parmesan Pasta hot from the oven. It pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For those who like a little heat, you can offer crushed red pepper flakes on the side.
How to Store Baked Chicken Parmesan Pasta
To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to store it for a longer time, consider freezing it. Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. Frozen pasta can last for up to 3 months.
Tips to Make Baked Chicken Parmesan Pasta
- Use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time.
- For extra flavor, consider adding spinach or bell peppers to the mix.
- If you want a crispier top, broil it for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking.
Variation
You can easily customize this recipe by swapping out the pasta for gluten-free options or using different types of cheese. For a spicy kick, add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce.
FAQs
Can I use uncooked pasta in this recipe?
No, it’s best to use cooked pasta as it will hold its texture during baking.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and bake it right before serving.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can replace the chicken with roasted vegetables or a meat substitute, and skip the chicken altogether for a delicious vegetarian version.
Baked Chicken Parmesan Pasta
A hearty one-dish meal that combines the comfort of pasta with the delicious flavors of chicken parmesan, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or rigatoni)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, marinara sauce, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Top with mozzarella cheese and sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Notes
Use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time. For a crispier top, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
