There’s something undeniably comforting about a hearty baked dish that combines the flavors of tender chicken, cheese, and the classic Italian aromas of oregano and basil. This Italian Baked Chicken Pasta recipe checks all the boxes for a satisfying family meal that’s perfect for cozy evenings or special gatherings. With layers of savory goodness and gooey cheese, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.
Italian Baked Chicken Pasta
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 jar (24 ounces) of your favorite marinara sauce
– 12 ounces of your preferred pasta (such as penne or rigatoni), cooked al dente
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, basil, and oregano.
3. Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Pour the marinara sauce over the cooked chicken and let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. In the prepared baking dish, spread half of the cooked pasta at the bottom in an even layer.
6. Spoon half of the chicken and sauce mixture over the pasta, spreading it out evenly.
7. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top of the chicken layer.
8. Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta, chicken and sauce mixture, and cheeses.
9. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
10. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
11. Once done, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
12. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for an extra burst of flavor.
This Italian Baked Chicken Pasta is a versatile dish that can easily be customized to suit your preferences. Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for an extra nutritional boost. You can also experiment with different types of cheese to create your own unique twist on this classic recipe. Serve it with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Enjoy the comfort and warmth of a homemade Italian meal without spending hours in the kitchen with this delicious recipe.
