Are you looking for a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a casual family gathering? Look no further than this Easy Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe! It’s a wholesome, hearty meal loaded with tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, gooey melted cheese, and a flavorful sauce that ties it all together. Plus, it’s super easy to make and can be customized with your favorite ingredients. Read on for step-by-step instructions and expert tips to make this dish a regular on your dinner menu!
What is Chicken Pasta Bake?
Chicken Pasta Bake is a classic baked pasta dish that combines pasta, chicken, sauce, and cheese, then finishes in the oven for a deliciously comforting and filling meal. This dish is perfect for feeding a crowd or making ahead for easy weeknight dinners. The combination of juicy chicken, creamy or tomato-based sauce, and melted cheese creates a satisfying flavor that everyone will love. Best of all, it can be tailored to include various ingredients to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients List for Chicken Pasta Bake
Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make the best chicken pasta bake:
- Chicken Breasts or Thighs (2-3 cups, cooked and shredded): You can use leftover chicken or cook fresh chicken specifically for this dish.
- Pasta (2 cups, uncooked): Penne, rotini, or rigatoni work great, but any short pasta can be used.
- Cheese (2 cups, shredded): A combination of mozzarella and cheddar works well for melty, cheesy goodness.
- Tomato or Alfredo Sauce (2 cups): Depending on your preference, you can use marinara, tomato sauce, or a creamy Alfredo sauce.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Adds depth and flavor to the dish.
- Onion (1 small, chopped): Enhances the savory flavor profile.
- Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): For sautéing the chicken and vegetables.
- Italian Seasoning (1 teaspoon): Adds a blend of herbs like oregano, thyme, and basil.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste): To season the dish.
- Parmesan Cheese (½ cup, grated): For sprinkling on top and adding extra flavor.
- Fresh Basil or Parsley (optional, for garnish): Adds a fresh, herby touch to the finished dish.
Additional Ingredients for Variation (Optional)
- Vegetables (1-2 cups): Bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini are great additions for extra nutrients.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (¼ teaspoon): For a bit of heat.
- Bacon (½ cup, cooked and crumbled): Adds a smoky, savory flavor.
- Panko Breadcrumbs (½ cup, mixed with butter): For a crispy topping.
Substitutions and Variations
One of the best things about this Chicken Pasta Bake is how versatile it can be. Here are some common substitutions and variations to try:
- Meat Options: Instead of chicken, you can use turkey, sausage, or even ham. You could also make it vegetarian by skipping the meat entirely and adding more veggies.
- Pasta: If you're gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta. Whole wheat pasta can also be used for a heartier texture.
- Sauce: If you prefer a creamy dish, substitute the tomato sauce for Alfredo or a homemade béchamel. For a healthier option, try a low-fat sauce or make a sauce using Greek yogurt.
- Cheese: Swap mozzarella for gouda, provolone, or Monterey Jack. You can also reduce the amount of cheese for a lighter dish.
- Vegetables: Add or omit veggies depending on your preference. Broccoli, spinach, or peas work well in this dish.
- Herbs and Spices: Customize the flavor profile by using different herbs and spices like rosemary, thyme, or paprika.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to making the Best Easy Chicken Pasta Bake:
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the Pasta: Boil your pasta in salted water until it's al dente (usually 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions). Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, and sauté until fragrant (about 2 minutes). Then, add the chicken, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until the chicken is no longer pink (if using raw chicken). If using pre-cooked chicken, just warm it through.
- Prepare the Sauce: Stir in your tomato or Alfredo sauce into the skillet with the chicken mixture. Let it simmer for 3-5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Combine Everything: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken and sauce mixture, and 1½ cups of the shredded cheese. Stir everything together until well coated.
- Assemble the Bake: Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese over the top and, if desired, add grated Parmesan for extra flavor.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. If you want a crispy topping, broil for the last 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve: Once the dish is out of the oven, garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve hot.
How to Cook Chicken Pasta Bake: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a large baking dish by lightly greasing it.
- Step 2: Cook your pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Step 3: Sauté garlic and onions in olive oil, then add the chicken and seasonings. Cook until golden and tender.
- Step 4: Mix the sauce with the chicken and seasonings. Simmer to blend the flavors.
- Step 5: Stir together the cooked pasta, chicken-sauce mixture, and shredded cheese. Pour into your prepared baking dish.
- Step 6: Top with cheese and bake for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Step 7: Broil for a few minutes to get a crispy, cheesy top layer.
- Step 8: Garnish with herbs, serve, and enjoy!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Pasta: Pasta should be cooked al dente to avoid becoming mushy when baked.
- Using Too Much Sauce: It’s easy to over-sauce this dish. Stick to the recommended amount to prevent the pasta from becoming too soupy.
- Not Seasoning the Chicken: Always season your chicken well before adding it to the pasta bake. Bland chicken can ruin the flavor of the dish.
- Skipping the Broil Step: If you like a crispy cheese topping, don’t skip the broiling step at the end.
- Not Letting It Rest: Let your pasta bake rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the dish set and makes it easier to serve.
Serving and Presentation Tips
- Serve your Chicken Pasta Bake with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce.
- Sprinkle extra Parmesan or drizzle with a little olive oil for added richness.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
How to Serve Chicken Pasta Bake
Serve this dish straight from the oven while it's hot and cheesy. Use a large spoon or spatula to scoop generous portions onto plates. You can serve it family-style by placing the baking dish in the center of the table and allowing everyone to help themselves. Pair with a crisp green salad and some garlic bread to complete the meal.
Presentation Ideas for Chicken Pasta Bake
- For an elegant touch, serve the pasta bake in individual ramekins or cast-iron skillets.
- Top each serving with a sprig of fresh basil or parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for extra flair.
- Serve alongside a glass of red wine for a more sophisticated meal.
Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe Tips
- Make Ahead: You can assemble the pasta bake ahead of time and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
- Freezing: This dish freezes well. Prepare as directed, but don’t bake it. Instead, cover it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. To bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake as directed.
- Crispy Topping: If you like a crunchy topping, sprinkle buttered panko breadcrumbs on top before baking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken? Yes, store-bought rotisserie chicken works perfectly for this recipe. Just shred it and add it in place of cooked chicken.
- Can I freeze Chicken Pasta Bake? Absolutely! You can freeze it before baking or after. If freezing before, assemble it, cover it tightly, and freeze. Thaw overnight and then bake.
- How do I make this dish vegetarian? Skip the chicken and load up on vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach for a delicious vegetarian version.
- What type of cheese melts the best? Mozzarella and cheddar are great options, but you can also try Monterey Jack or a mix of cheeses for different flavors.
- Can I make this dish ahead? Yes, you can prepare it up to a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you're ready to bake.
Conclusion
This Easy Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe is the perfect comfort meal that’s packed with flavor, easy to prepare, and versatile enough to suit any palate. Whether you're making it for a busy weeknight or a weekend family dinner, it’s sure to be a hit. With simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions, you'll have a satisfying dish on the table in no time. So, why wait? Gather your ingredients and try this delicious recipe today!
PrintThe Best Easy Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe
The Best Easy Chicken Pasta Bake is a comforting, cheesy casserole perfect for busy weeknights. Made with tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a creamy tomato sauce, this dish is topped with melted mozzarella and baked to golden perfection. Quick to assemble and packed with flavor, this chicken pasta bake is a family favorite that’s sure to satisfy any craving for a hearty, cheesy meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole, Pasta
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
- 3 cups cooked pasta (penne or rotini)
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 baking dish.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in marinara sauce, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper. Let it simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, and sauce. Mix well and pour into the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot.
Notes
- You can add veggies like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
- For a spicier version, mix in red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated easily.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (⅙th of casserole)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 950mg
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