Chicken and Tomato Pasta Bake

Introduction

Bring comfort and flavor to your table with this irresistible Chicken and Tomato Pasta Bake! This dish is everything you want in a cozy meal—tender chunks of chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, flavorful tomato sauce, all topped with a generous layer of melted, golden cheese. It’s hearty, satisfying, and guaranteed to have everyone at the table asking for seconds.

I love making this recipe on busy weeknights or when I need something easy but impressive for a casual gathering. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug—simple, comforting, and packed with flavor. Plus, it’s super versatile! You can add your favorite veggies, experiment with different cheeses, or even swap in gluten-free pasta if needed. It’s like a blank canvas, ready to adapt to whatever you’re craving.

One of my favorite memories of this dish is making it on a cold evening when my family was craving something warm and filling. The bubbling cheese and aroma of garlic and tomatoes filled the kitchen, and by the time we sat down to eat, it felt like the perfect way to end the day. The best part? Leftovers heat up beautifully, so you can enjoy it again the next day (if there’s any left, that is!).

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just want a satisfying meal to enjoy at home, this Chicken and Tomato Pasta Bake is a recipe you’ll turn to again and again. Let’s get cooking—you’re going to love this one!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why this Chicken and Tomato Pasta Bake deserves a spot on your meal rotation:

• Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein, carbs, and cheese for a satisfying meal.
• Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will devour this cheesy pasta dish.
• Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or swap out the pasta shape to suit your mood.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare in advance and bake when ready to serve.
• Perfect for Leftovers: Tastes just as good the next day, making it ideal for meal prep.
• Simple Ingredients: Pantry staples come together for a delicious, comforting meal.
• Great for Sharing: A perfect dish for potlucks or family gatherings.

Preparation Time and Cook Time

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Calories per serving: Approximately 400 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 28g, Carbohydrates: 35g, Fat: 15g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your Chicken and Tomato Pasta Bake:

For the Pasta Bake

• 2 cups penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Penne Pasta: Holds the sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
• Chicken Breast: Provides lean protein for a satisfying meal.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Melts into a bubbly, golden topping.
• Heavy Cream: Adds a rich, velvety texture to the sauce.
• Tomatoes: The star ingredient, bringing acidity and depth to the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Chicken and Tomato Pasta Bake:

Prepare the Pasta

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Cook the Chicken

2. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. Cook the Chicken: Add the diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, and paprika, and cook until lightly browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Sauce

4. Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant.
5. Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, and chicken broth. Let it simmer for 5 minutes.
6. Add Cream: Stir in the heavy cream and let the sauce thicken slightly.
7. Combine Chicken: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix well.

Assemble the Bake

8. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
9. Mix Pasta and Sauce: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta and the chicken tomato sauce. Mix until evenly coated.
10. Layer in Baking Dish: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
11. Add Cheese: Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top.

Bake

12. Bake the Dish: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden.

How to Serve

This Chicken and Tomato Pasta Bake pairs well with various sides and serving ideas:

1. Fresh Salad: Serve with a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
2. Garlic Bread: Complement the dish with buttery garlic bread or breadsticks.
3. Vegetable Side: Roasted veggies like zucchini or broccoli add a healthy touch.
4. Single Servings: Portion into individual bowls for a cozy, family-style dinner.
5. Potluck Favorite: Bring it to gatherings for an easy-to-share, crowd-pleasing dish.

Additional Tips

Maximize your success with these helpful hints:

1. Undercook the Pasta: Slightly undercook the pasta before baking to prevent it from becoming mushy.
2. Use Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for extra flavor and a pop of color.
3. Double the Recipe: Make a double batch and freeze one for later use.
4. Choose the Right Cheese: Use a combination of cheeses like cheddar or Gouda for a unique twist.
5. Add Veggies: Mix in spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added nutrients.
6. Taste the Sauce: Adjust seasonings to your preference before combining with pasta.

Recipe Variations

Get creative with these variations:

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for extra heat.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for roasted vegetables or chickpeas.
• Seafood Twist: Use shrimp or crab meat instead of chicken.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta for a celiac-friendly version.
• Low-Carb: Substitute pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower.
• Cheese Swap: Experiment with feta or ricotta for a tangy flavor.

Freezing and Storage

Here’s how to store your Chicken and Tomato Pasta Bake for maximum freshness:

• Refrigerate Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freeze for Later: Freeze the fully assembled (but unbaked) dish for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
• Reheat Gently: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use the microwave for individual portions.
• Freezing Before Baking:
• Prepare the dish up to the point of baking, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and a layer of aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed, adding about 10-15 minutes to ensure it’s heated through.
• Freezing Individual Portions:
• Divide the pasta bake into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags for single servings. This is perfect for meal prep or quick lunches. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the microwave or oven.
• Freezing After Baking:
• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing. Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and foil, or use airtight containers. When reheating, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or microwave in 1-minute intervals until heated.
• Preventing Freezer Burn:
• Ensure the dish is tightly wrapped or stored in an airtight container. Remove as much air as possible from bags to prevent freezer burn and maintain flavor.

FAQ Section

Got questions? Here are answers to some common ones:

• Can I use leftover chicken?
  Absolutely! Shredded rotisserie chicken works wonderfully in this recipe.
• What pasta works best?
  Penne is a great choice, but you can also use rigatoni, fusilli, or shells.
• Can I make this dairy-free?
  Yes! Substitute the cheese and cream with dairy-free alternatives.
• Can I make this ahead of time?
• Yes! Assemble the dish up to the point of baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven, adding a few extra minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.
• What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
• Reheat individual portions in the microwave in 1-minute intervals until hot, or cover the entire dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes to retain the creamy texture.
• Can I add extra protein?
• Of course! Try mixing in cooked sausage, ground beef, or even bacon bits for a meatier twist.
• What can I use instead of chicken?
• If you’re out of chicken or want a change, try turkey, shrimp, or plant-based chicken substitutes.
• How do I prevent the pasta from drying out?
• Make sure there’s enough sauce to coat all the pasta before baking, and cover the dish loosely with foil for the first half of the baking time to lock in moisture.
• Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
• Yes, but you’ll need to peel and dice them first. About 4-5 medium tomatoes should replace one 14 oz can of diced tomatoes.

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Conclusion

Chicken and Tomato Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort food, offering the perfect blend of savory flavors and creamy textures. This dish is hearty, satisfying, and oh-so-cheesy, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re whipping up a quick family dinner or preparing a dish to impress your guests, this pasta bake is sure to steal the show.

With tender chicken, a rich tomato sauce, and a gooey, golden cheesy topping, it’s the kind of meal that warms both the heart and the stomach. Plus, it’s easy to customize—add your favorite vegetables, use a different type of pasta, or spice it up with some crushed red pepper.

Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me on social media—I love seeing your delicious creations! Happy cooking, and enjoy every cheesy bite!