Baked Chicken Parmesan Pasta

A comforting crowd-pleasing pasta bake featuring tender chicken tangy tomato sauce and a golden cheesy topping.

I first made this Baked Chicken Parmesan Pasta when my family craved something hearty and comforting. It instantly became a favorite—everyone always asks for seconds and loves the crunchy breadcrumb topping.

Ingredients

• Chicken: 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 500 g) 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Pasta: 400 g (14 oz) penne or rigatoni pasta
• Sauce: 700 ml (24 oz) marinara or tomato-basil pasta sauce 2 cloves garlic minced
• Cheese: 200 g (2 cups) shredded mozzarella cheese 60 g (1/2 cup) grated Parmesan cheese 100 g (1 cup) Italian-style breadcrumbs
• For Serving & Garnish: 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or parsley (optional) Olive oil spray

Instructions

Prepare the Pan:

Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Lightly grease a 22x33 cm (9x13 inch) baking dish.

Cook the Pasta:

Cook pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until just al dente (about 2 minutes less than package instructions). Drain and set aside.

Season the Chicken:

While pasta cooks season chicken breasts with salt pepper and Italian seasoning.

Cook the Chicken:

In a large skillet over medium-high heat drizzle a little olive oil and cook chicken breasts 4(5 minutes per side until golden and just cooked through. Transfer to a board cool slightly and dice into bite-sized pieces.

Mix Ingredients:

In a large bowl combine cooked pasta diced chicken marinara sauce garlic and half of the mozzarella and Parmesan. Mix well.

Assemble the Bake:

Spread the mixture evenly in the baking dish. Sprinkle with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan then top with breadcrumbs.

Add Oil:

Lightly spray the top with olive oil.

Bake:

Bake for 20(25 minutes until bubbling and the top is golden brown.

Serve:

Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped basil or parsley if desired.

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My kids love helping layer the cheese and breadcrumbs before we bake—making it a deliciously fun family moment every time.

Serving Suggestions

This pasta bake pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.

Allergen Information

Contains: Wheat (pasta breadcrumbs) Milk (cheese) Eggs (may be present in some breadcrumbs). Always check product labels for potential allergens.

Nutritional Information

Per serving: 530 Calories 17 g Total Fat 54 g Carbohydrates 37 g Protein

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This dish is perfect for potlucks and leftovers reheat beautifully. Enjoy a comforting taste of Italian-American tradition with every bite.

Recipe FAQ

→ What type of pasta works best for this dish?

Penne or rigatoni pasta are ideal as they hold sauce well and bake evenly in the dish.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the bake in advance and refrigerate before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if chilled.

→ How can I add extra flavor to the sauce?

A pinch of red pepper flakes or extra garlic enhances the sauce’s depth and heat without overpowering.

→ Is it possible to substitute the chicken?

Cooked breaded chicken cutlets can be used for a classic variation with added texture and flavor.

→ What garnishes complement the finished dish?

Freshly chopped basil or parsley adds a bright herbal note that balances the richness of the cheese and sauce.