Creamy Chicken Pasta Bake

This Creamy Chicken Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort food! Loaded with tender chicken, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese, this dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping. Simple to make and irresistibly delicious, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy – A velvety sauce made with marinara and heavy cream.
• Cheesy and Satisfying – Mozzarella and Parmesan create the perfect gooey topping.
• Quick and Easy – Simple ingredients and minimal prep for a stress-free dinner.
• Family-Friendly – A dish that both kids and adults will love.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 12 oz rigatoni pasta
• 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded)
• 1 ½ cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Boil rigatoni pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

4. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
5. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
6. Stir in marinara sauce, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
7. Simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 3: Mix Everything Together

8. In a large bowl, combine the cooked rigatoni, shredded chicken, and creamy marinara sauce.
9. Toss everything together until evenly coated. If the mixture looks dry, add a splash of pasta water.

Step 4: Assemble the Bake

10. Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13 baking dish.
11. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

12. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
13. For a crispy golden top, broil for the last 2 minutes (watch closely!).

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

14. Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes.
15. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Yield: 6 servings
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for heat.
• Vegetable Boost: Stir in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
• Extra Creamy: Mix in ½ cup of ricotta or cream cheese for a richer texture.
• Different Protein: Swap chicken for cooked sausage, turkey, or shrimp.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

FAQs

Can I make this pasta bake ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble everything and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Absolutely! Penne, ziti, or fusilli work great in this recipe.

What’s the best way to keep it from drying out?

Adding a splash of pasta water or extra sauce before baking keeps it moist.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and check that your marinara sauce is gluten-free.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving option for this recipe.

What cheese works best for melting?

Mozzarella is best for that gooey stretch, but provolone or a blend also works well.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce won’t be as rich. Add 1 tablespoon of flour to help thicken it.

Can I add breadcrumbs on top?

Yes! Sprinkle buttered breadcrumbs on top before baking for extra crunch.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Definitely! It’s creamy, cheesy, and mild in flavor, making it a favorite for kids.

How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?

Cook the pasta just until al dente since it will continue cooking in the oven.

Conclusion

This Creamy Chicken Pasta Bake is a cheesy, hearty, and comforting dish that’s easy to make and always a hit at the dinner table. With simple ingredients and a creamy, flavorful sauce, it’s perfect for weeknight meals or special gatherings. Serve it warm and enjoy every gooey, delicious bite!

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