If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening, this Cheesy Chicken Pasta Bake is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. Creamy tomato sauce swirls together with plenty of melted mozzarella and a sprinkle of sharp Parmesan, creating a luscious blanket over tender pieces of chicken and perfectly cooked pasta. From the very first bite, you’ll notice how the bright sweetness of red bell pepper and the gentle kick of Italian seasoning come together to elevate every mouthful. Steaming hot out of the oven, the golden breadcrumbs on top add a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the silky creaminess below. As someone who’s tried countless weeknight dinners, I can tell you this one stands out for its simple technique and spectacular payoff.
What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it can be. It’s a beginner-friendly, one-pot wonder that takes just 20 minutes of prep time and 25 minutes in the oven—perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want comfort without fuss. If you’ve got leftover chicken or bits of broccoli in the fridge, they can slide right into this bake, making it an ideal way to clear out the fridge. Plus, with a total resting time of 5 minutes, you’ll have a piping hot dinner on the table in under an hour. Whether you’re feeding a family of four or just treating yourself, this cheesy delight is bound to become a staple in your dinner rotation.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN CHEESY CHICKEN PASTA BAKE
Before diving into the kitchen, let’s gather our star players. Each ingredient contributes essential texture, flavor, and creaminess, combining to form a comforting, crowd-pleasing bake. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Cooked pasta
Acts as the hearty foundation, with penne or fusilli holding onto every bit of sauce thanks to their ridges and tubes.
- Diced cooked chicken breast
Provides tender, lean protein that effortlessly absorbs the flavors of garlic, peppers, and creamy sauce, making each bite satisfying.
- Olive oil
Serves as the gentle cooking medium, helping to sauté onions and garlic until sweet and aromatic without burning.
- Onion
Adds a mild, sweet flavor base when finely chopped and sautéed until translucent, giving depth to the sauce.
- Garlic
Lends its signature pungent warmth and complexity, making the whole dish more aromatic and irresistible.
- Red bell pepper
Brings a touch of sweetness and vibrant color, complementing the savory cheese and chicken.
- Broccoli florets
Bright green, steamed pieces that add a tender-crisp bite and boost the dish with fresh vegetable goodness.
- Marinara sauce
Builds the rich tomato base of the bake, keeping everything moist and flavorful without being too heavy.
- Heavy cream
Creates a velvety, indulgent texture, transforming ordinary sauce into something luxuriously smooth.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
Offers gooey, stretchy goodness when melted, forming that iconic cheesy pull we all love.
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Gives a sharp, nutty note that cuts through the richness and enhances the overall flavor.
- Italian seasoning
A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme that seasons the sauce with classic Italian flair.
- Salt and pepper
Essential for balancing and brightening all the flavors, ensuring each element shines.
- Breadcrumbs
Toast up golden and crisp on top, providing a contrasting texture and a beautiful rustic finish.
HOW TO MAKE CHEESY CHICKEN PASTA BAKE
Let’s walk through how easy it is to transform these ingredients into a bubbling, golden-brown masterpiece. Follow each step carefully, and you’ll have a restaurant-worthy dish that feels homemade.
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), ensuring it’s fully heated before the bake goes in so you get an even, golden crust.
2. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain thoroughly and set aside to prevent the sauce from becoming too watery.
3. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally so it doesn’t brown too quickly.
4. Add the minced garlic and diced red bell pepper to the skillet. Continue sautéing for another 2 minutes until the pepper softens and the garlic becomes fragrant.
5. Stir in the diced cooked chicken and steamed broccoli florets. Cook for 2–3 minutes to combine the flavors, tossing gently so the veggies don’t get mushy.
6. Reduce the heat to low, then pour in the marinara sauce and heavy cream. Stir carefully and allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer, infusing the sauce with creamy richness.
7. Add the shredded mozzarella and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir constantly until the cheeses melt into a silky, cohesive sauce.
8. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste, tasting as you go to achieve that perfect balance of herbs and seasoning.
9. Transfer the cooked pasta and chicken sauce mixture into a large baking dish, using a spatula to ensure the pasta is fully coated in sauce.
10. Evenly sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs over the top, distributing them so every bite gets a satisfying crunch.
11. Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and the sauce is bubbling around the edges.
12. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving, giving the sauce a chance to set so it doesn’t run off the plate.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR CHEESY CHICKEN PASTA BAKE
After waiting for that bubbly golden crust to cool just enough, serving becomes a moment of pure delight. Whether you’re plating up for a weeknight family dinner or sharing at a potluck, presenting this bake in style adds to the overall enjoyment. Think about colors, textures, and complementary flavors to enhance each bite. From bright garnishes to crisp side dishes, these ideas will elevate your cheesy chicken pasta bake from delicious to unforgettable.
- Fresh herb garnish
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil over each serving to add a burst of color and a hint of freshness that cuts through the richness.
- Garlic bread on the side
Warm, buttery slices with a hint of garlic become perfect vehicles for soaking up any leftover sauce, making every crumb count.
- Simple green salad
Toss together mixed greens, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes with a light vinaigrette to balance the creamy bake with crisp, tangy flavors.
- Red pepper flakes and extra cheese
Offer a small dish of crushed red pepper flakes and grated Parmesan at the table so guests can customize their heat level and cheesiness.
HOW TO STORE CHEESY CHICKEN PASTA BAKE
Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or simply want to savor leftovers, proper storage ensures your pasta bake stays just as delicious the next day. This beginner-friendly dish actually tastes even better after sitting in the fridge, as the flavors deepen and meld overnight. Make sure to follow these methods to maintain moisture, retain that crisp breadcrumb topping, and keep your creamy sauce from separating.
- Refrigeration
Allow the bake to cool completely before covering the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Before reheating, let it come to room temperature for 15 minutes.
- Freezing
Portion the cooled pasta bake into individual airtight containers or a large freezer-safe dish. Use freezer-safe wrap and seal well to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat gently
For refrigerated or thawed portions, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15–20 minutes, or until warmed through and bubbly. To refresh the breadcrumb topping, broil for the last 2–3 minutes until golden.
- Storing the topping separately
If you want to maintain maximum crunch, store the breadcrumbs in a small airtight container at room temperature. Add them on top just before baking or reheating for an extra-crispy finish.
CONCLUSION
From start to finish, this Cheesy Chicken Pasta Bake brings together simple ingredients—tender chicken, al dente pasta, vibrant veggies, and two kinds of cheese—into a comforting dish that’s perfect for both beginner and seasoned home cooks. With only 20 minutes of prep time and a total cooking time of 25 minutes, plus a short 5-minute rest, it’s an ideal weeknight dinner that feels anything but rushed. Each step, from sautéing aromatic onions and garlic to mixing in creamy marinara and heavy cream, culminates in a cheesy, bubbling masterpiece topped with perfectly golden breadcrumbs. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a casual gathering or just want a satisfying solo meal, this recipe delivers every time. And since it’s so versatile, you can easily customize it by swapping chicken for sausage or adding extra veggies like spinach or mushrooms.
Feel free to print this article or save it for later reference, and don’t forget there’s a helpful FAQ section below to answer any lingering questions about ingredients, substitutions, or technique. I’d love to hear how your bake turns out—drop a comment if you tried it, share your tips, or ask questions if you need a hand along the way. Happy cooking and may your kitchen always be filled with warmth, laughter, and, of course, plenty of cheesy goodness!
Cheesy Chicken Pasta Bake
Description
This Cheesy Chicken Pasta Bake is a comforting dish combining tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich, creamy tomato sauce. Topped with gooey mozzarella and crispy breadcrumbs, it's sure to be a family favorite!
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, drain, and set aside.
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In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
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Add the minced garlic and diced red bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for another 2 minutes until the pepper is tender.
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Stir in the diced cooked chicken and broccoli florets, cooking for another 2–3 minutes to combine the flavors.
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Reduce the heat to low and mix in the marinara sauce and heavy cream. Allow the mixture to come to a simmer.
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Add the mozzarella cheese and half of the parmesan cheese to the skillet, stirring until melted and creamy.
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Season the mixture with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
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In a large baking dish, combine the cooked pasta and chicken sauce mixture, stirring until the pasta is fully coated in sauce.
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Sprinkle the remaining parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
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Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Note
- You can add other vegetables such as spinach or mushrooms for additional flavor.
- For extra creaminess, stir in a dollop of cream cheese before baking.
- Swap out the chicken for cooked sausage or shrimp for different protein variations.
- The dish can be made ahead and refrigerated; just increase the baking time by 5–10 minutes when cooking from cold.
