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Chicken Caprese Pasta Bake

Chicken Caprese Pasta Bake - Cozy Comfort Food Bliss

Delicious Chicken Caprese Pasta Bake combines comforting flavors in a quick-to-prepare dish that's perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Cooling Time 5 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta Base
  • 12 oz Pasta Use penne or rigatoni, or opt for gluten-free pasta if needed.
  • 1.5 cups Marinara or Tomato Basil Sauce Homemade or store-bought works.
For the Chicken and Cheese
  • 2 cups Cooked Chicken Shredded or cubed; using leftover roasted chicken can save you time.
  • 1.5 cups Shredded Mozzarella Low-fat mozzarella can be swapped for a lighter option.
  • 0.5 cups Mozzarella Pearls or Chunks Can be omitted if you don’t have any on hand.
  • 0.25 cups Grated Parmesan Freshly grated is always best.
For Freshness and Flavor
  • 1 pint Cherry or Grape Tomatoes Halve them for better distribution.
  • 0.33 cups Chopped Fresh Basil Substitute dried basil (1 tablespoon) if fresh isn’t available.
For Seasoning and Finishing Touches
  • Salt and Pepper Essential for balancing flavors; season to taste.
  • Balsamic Glaze Make your own by reducing balsamic vinegar.
  • Crushed Red Pepper Adjust according to your heat preference.

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Large pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Gather your ingredients and a large pot for boiling pasta and a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. Bring salted water to a boil and cook pasta until al dente, about 8–10 minutes, then drain and return it to the pot.
  3. Stir in marinara sauce, cooked chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, and half of the shredded mozzarella. Mix gently until well-coated.
  4. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly to ensure even cooking.
  5. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top, adding mozzarella pearls if using.
  6. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden.
  7. Remove from oven, cool slightly, drizzle with balsamic glaze, and sprinkle remaining basil before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 520kcalCarbohydrates: 58gProtein: 37gFat: 19gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 400mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Cook pasta al dente to avoid sogginess. Use leftover roasted chicken for convenience. Fresh herbs enhance flavor.

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