Cheesy Baked Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Casserole

Hi there, food lover! 👋 Ready to fill your kitchen with the comforting aroma of bubbling cheese and hearty baked pasta? There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about pulling a golden, cheesy casserole from the oven and setting it right in the center of the table. This Cheesy Baked Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Casserole is a true family-style dish—warm, generous, and deeply satisfying. 🍗🍝

In many homes, baked pasta casseroles are the heart of weeknight dinners and Sunday gatherings alike. They’re practical, comforting, and perfect for feeding a hungry crowd. Tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, rich tomato sauce, and layers of melted mozzarella come together in a dish that feels both simple and special. It’s the kind of meal that invites everyone to gather, serve themselves, and enjoy seconds without hesitation.

This recipe keeps things traditional and straightforward, using wholesome ingredients and easy steps. Whether you’re preparing dinner for your family or bringing a dish to share with friends, this casserole promises creamy, cheesy goodness in every bite. Let’s get cooking!

Cheesy Baked Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Casserole Introduction

This Cheesy Baked Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Casserole celebrates classic Italian-inspired flavors in a comforting baked format. Juicy chicken is seasoned and sautéed until golden, then combined with tender pasta and a rich tomato sauce. Everything is layered with generous handfuls of shredded mozzarella and baked until perfectly melted and lightly browned on top.

The beauty of this dish lies in its balance—savory chicken, tangy tomato sauce, creamy cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta. A sprinkle of herbs adds freshness, while baking brings everything together into a harmonious, bubbling casserole.

It’s simple enough for a weeknight meal yet hearty enough for special occasions. With minimal preparation and familiar ingredients, this casserole is sure to become a trusted favorite in your home.

Ingredients

For the Pasta and Chicken:

• 12 ounces (340 g) penne or rigatoni pasta
• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

For the Sauce:

• 3 cups marinara sauce (homemade or good-quality store-bought)
• ½ cup heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried basil

For the Cheese Layer:

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella for topping

Optional Garnish:

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• Extra Parmesan for serving

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Cook the Pasta
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until just al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside. Avoid overcooking, as the pasta will continue to cook in the oven.
2. Prepare the Chicken
   If not already cooked, season chicken breast with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and cook the chicken until golden and fully cooked. Add minced garlic during the last minute of cooking for extra flavor. Dice or shred the chicken once cooled slightly.
3. Prepare the Sauce
   In a large mixing bowl, combine marinara sauce, heavy cream (if using), oregano, and basil. Stir well to blend the flavors.
4. Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce
   Add the cooked pasta and chicken into the sauce mixture. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated.
5. Layer the Casserole
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread half of the pasta mixture into the dish. Sprinkle 1 cup mozzarella and half of the Parmesan over the layer. Add the remaining pasta mixture on top. Finish with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
6. Bake to Perfection
   Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly. For a golden top, broil for an additional 2–3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
7. Rest and Serve
   Remove from the oven and allow the casserole to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve warm and enjoy the cheesy goodness! 🧀🍝

Notes

• Rotisserie chicken works wonderfully for convenience and added flavor.
• For extra vegetables, stir in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or diced bell peppers.
• Substitute whole wheat pasta for added fiber if desired.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat covered in the oven or microwave with a splash of water or milk to keep it moist.
• This casserole freezes well. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

Nutritional Information

(Approximate values per serving)

⏰ Prep Time: 15 minutes | 🔥 Baking Time: 25 minutes | ⏳ Total Time: 40 minutes
⚡ Calories per serving: 520 kcal | 🍽️ Servings: 6

• Protein: 32 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Fat: 24 g
• Saturated Fat: 11 g
• Cholesterol: 95 mg
• Sodium: 720 mg
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 6 g

This Cheesy Baked Chicken Mozzarella Pasta Casserole offers a comforting balance of protein, carbohydrates, and rich, satisfying cheese. Pair it with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to round out the meal beautifully.

There’s nothing quite like gathering around a warm casserole straight from the oven. The melted mozzarella stretches with every scoop, the savory aroma fills the room, and each bite delivers comforting, home-cooked flavor. This timeless baked pasta dish is sure to become a regular request at your dinner table.

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Bon appétit and happy cooking!