There’s something undeniably comforting about a dish that combines the heartiness of pasta, the savory flavors of chicken, and the gooey goodness of melted cheese. Baked Chicken Parmesan Pasta brings together all these elements into one delicious and satisfying meal that your whole family will love. This recipe takes a classic favorite and transforms it into a cozy and inviting dinner option that is perfect for any night of the week.
**Baked Chicken Parmesan Pasta**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 12 oz dried pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional, for garnish)
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Set aside.
2. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. While the pasta is cooking, cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and season with garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook until they are browned on all sides and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Once the chicken is cooked, add the marinara sauce to the skillet and stir well to combine. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes to heat through and meld the flavors.
6. In the prepared baking dish, spread half of the cooked pasta in an even layer. Top with half of the chicken and sauce mixture. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the chicken.
7. Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta, chicken, sauce, and cheeses. Make sure to spread the cheese evenly to cover the top layer.
8. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Remove the foil and let the dish bake for another 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and slightly crispy.
10. Once baked to perfection, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with some chopped fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and an extra burst of flavor.
Enjoy this delightful Baked Chicken Parmesan Pasta alongside a crisp green salad or some garlic bread for a truly comforting and satisfying meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to please with its blend of flavors and textures. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to whip up a delicious homemade meal that will warm both your heart and your belly.
