Chicken Parmesan Baked Pasta

Introduction

If you’re anything like me, you probably love a good, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug. That’s exactly what this Chicken Parmesan Baked Pasta is all about! It takes the classic chicken parm flavors — that juicy chicken, rich marinara, gooey mozzarella, and those irresistible crispy breadcrumbs — and brings them together in a cozy pasta bake that’s perfect for a laid-back family dinner or a casual get-together.

This recipe has become a staple in my home. It’s the kind of dish I turn to on busy weeknights when I want something hearty but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love pasta baked with tons of cheese? The best part is that it’s super simple to pull together, even if you’re just starting out in the kitchen. You’re just layering and baking — no fancy skills required here!

Whenever I make this, I get the whole family in on the action. My kids love helping sprinkle the breadcrumbs and watching the cheese bubble in the oven. And if you’re like me and enjoy leftovers (they’re even better the next day), this recipe’s a total win. So grab your ingredients, preheat the oven, and let’s make some memories over this warm, cheesy Chicken Parmesan Baked Pasta. You’re going to love how easy and rewarding it is!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are several reasons to love Chicken Parmesan Baked Pasta:

• Family-Friendly: It’s a hit with kids and adults alike, making it ideal for family meals.
• Easy to Make: Uses simple ingredients and a straightforward process for a no-fuss dinner.
• Great for Leftovers: Tastes just as good the next day, making meal prep a breeze.
• Comforting and Satisfying: The combination of pasta, chicken, cheese, and marinara sauce is a guaranteed comfort food.
• Customizable: Add extra veggies or swap pasta types to suit your taste.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for potlucks, gatherings, or any time you’re feeding a crowd.
• Freezer-Friendly: Prepare and freeze for an easy weeknight dinner.
• Minimal Cleanup: One dish for baking means less time spent on washing up.

Preparation Time and Cook Time

• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 450 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 30g, Carbohydrates: 45g, Fat: 15g

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for Chicken Parmesan Baked Pasta:

For the Baked Pasta:

• 1 lb penne pasta
• 1 lb cooked chicken breast, cubed or shredded
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Ingredient Highlights

• Penne Pasta: Holds sauce well and creates a hearty texture.
• Chicken Breast: Adds lean protein to the dish.
• Mozzarella and Parmesan: Melt into the pasta for a gooey, cheesy finish.
• Marinara Sauce: Brings a tangy, rich flavor to the dish.
• Italian Breadcrumbs: Provides a crispy topping to contrast with the creamy pasta.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Chicken Parmesan Baked Pasta:

Prepare the Pasta and Chicken

1. Cook the Pasta: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, marinara sauce, cubed chicken, half of the mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Stir to combine and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

Assemble and Bake

1. Layer the Pasta: Pour the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
3. Add Breadcrumbs: In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with minced garlic and olive oil. Sprinkle evenly over the pasta for a crispy topping.
4. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.

How to Serve

Here are some serving ideas for Chicken Parmesan Baked Pasta:

1. Serve with Garlic Bread: Pair with garlic bread for a full Italian meal.
2. Add a Side Salad: Complement with a green salad for freshness.
3. Top with Fresh Basil: Garnish with chopped basil for extra flavor.
4. Pair with Wine: Serve with a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot.
5. Individual Servings: Serve each portion in a small bowl with a sprinkle of Parmesan on top.
6. Create a Pasta Bar: Set up a pasta bar with various toppings like chili flakes, fresh herbs, and grated cheese.
7. Family-Style Serving: Place the baking dish at the center of the table for a communal, family-style meal.
8. Prepare with Zoodles: Substitute with zucchini noodles for a lower-carb option.
9. Use as Leftovers: Reheat in the oven the next day for a delicious leftover meal.
10. Serve in Bread Bowls: For a unique presentation, serve in hollowed-out bread bowls.

Additional Tips

Maximize your enjoyment of Chicken Parmesan Baked Pasta with these helpful tips:

1. Prep Ahead: Assemble the dish up to a day ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake.
2. Use Fresh Mozzarella: Fresh mozzarella adds extra creaminess if available.
3. Add Veggies: Throw in bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition.
4. Check for Doneness: Ensure the chicken is fully cooked before adding it to the pasta.
5. Season Generously: Season with extra Italian herbs if desired for more flavor.
6. Choose Quality Marinara: Use a quality marinara sauce to enhance the dish’s flavor.
7. Crisp the Topping: Broil for a minute or two at the end for an extra-crispy topping.
8. Freeze for Later: Freeze portions in individual containers for easy weeknight meals.
9. Use Whole Wheat Pasta: Substitute whole wheat pasta for added fiber and nutrients.
10. Save Some for Lunch: Pack leftovers in lunchboxes for a filling meal the next day.

Recipe Variations

Try these variations on your Chicken Parmesan Baked Pasta:

• Buffalo Chicken Style: Add a drizzle of buffalo sauce to the pasta for a spicy twist.
• Low-Carb Option: Swap the pasta for cauliflower florets to reduce carbs.
• Extra Cheesy: Add ricotta or cream cheese to the pasta mixture for extra creaminess.
• Veggie Packed: Mix in diced zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added veggies.
• Spicy Marinara: Use spicy marinara or add crushed red pepper for heat.
• Gluten-Free Version: Substitute with gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs.
• Use Rotisserie Chicken: Save time by using store-bought rotisserie chicken.
• Pesto Flavor: Swirl in a spoonful of pesto to add a fresh, herby flavor.
• Creamy Sauce: Mix marinara with Alfredo sauce for a creamy variation.
• Swap for Turkey: Use turkey breast as a lighter protein option.

Freezing and Storage

Ensure proper storage for your Chicken Parmesan Baked Pasta:

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerate: Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until warm.
• Freezing: Prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Thawing: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake as directed.

Special Equipment

You may need these kitchen tools to make Chicken Parmesan Baked Pasta:

• 9×13-inch Baking Dish: For baking the pasta.
• Mixing Bowls: For combining the pasta and sauce ingredients.
• Large Spoon: For mixing and serving the pasta.
• Aluminum Foil: To cover the dish if freezing.
• Grater: For grating Parmesan cheese.
• Garlic Press: For mincing garlic.

FAQ Section

Here are answers to common questions about Chicken Parmesan Baked Pasta:

• Can I make this ahead of time?
  Yes, you can assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake.
• Can I use a different type of pasta?
  Yes, feel free to use any pasta shape you like, such as rigatoni or fusilli.
• How long does it keep?
  It will stay fresh in the fridge for 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Can I skip the breadcrumbs?
  Yes, if you prefer, you can skip the breadcrumb topping for a softer texture.
• Can I add more cheese?
  Absolutely! Feel free to add extra mozzarella or Parmesan to make it even cheesier.

Print

Conclusion

Chicken Parmesan Baked Pasta is everything you want in a comfort food—it’s hearty, packed with flavor, and guaranteed to make everyone at the table happy! This pasta bake combines all the best parts of classic chicken parmesan in a deliciously cheesy, saucy, and crispy dish that’s perfect for cozy dinners or family gatherings. The best part? It’s super versatile. You can add extra veggies, switch up the cheeses, or make it a little spicy for an extra kick. Plus, it reheats beautifully, making it an ideal choice for meal prepping or busy weeknights.

I’d love to hear how your Chicken Parmesan Baked Pasta turns out! Whether you make it exactly as written or add your own personal twist, be sure to leave a comment and let me know how it went. Better yet, snap a photo of your finished dish and tag me on social media—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations! Your photos and stories make this recipe-sharing journey even more fun, and I’m always thrilled to see the amazing dishes you create. So grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to enjoy a cheesy, comforting pasta bake that’s sure to be a hit. Happy cooking!