Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheesy Chicken Pasta Bake
- Season the boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the chicken for about 6-8 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to cool.
- In the same skillet, add more olive oil if necessary, and toss in the chopped onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes until soft and translucent. Add in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in a can of crushed tomatoes and a can of tomato sauce into the skillet. Add dried oregano, basil, and optional red pepper flakes. Mix well and let it simmer for 15 minutes over low heat, stirring occasionally.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, mixing it into the sauce and letting everything combine for an additional 5 minutes.
- While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta in a colander without rinsing it.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained pasta with the sauce and chicken mixture, stirring gently until the pasta is coated with sauce.
- Pour the pasta mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese over the pasta in an even layer.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the Cheesy Chicken Pasta Bake rest for about 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Nutrition
Notes
This Cheesy Chicken Pasta Bake is versatile; feel free to customize with different vegetables or spices for a personal touch.
