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Easy Chicken Pasta Bake

A delightful and comforting dish combining tender chicken, creamy pasta, and bubbling cheese, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Comfort Food, Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Sauce Base
  • 450 grams 450g of rigatoni pasta Hearty base for the dish.
  • 1 tablespoon 1 tablespoon of olive oil Infuses the dish with flavor.
  • 1 jar (650mL) 1 jar of marinara sauce Delicious base for the bake.
  • 1/2 cup 1/2 cup of sour cream Adds creaminess and depth.
Protein and Vegetables
  • 0.5 pound 1/2 lb of chicken breasts, diced Juicy and tender.
  • 2 cloves 2 cloves of minced garlic Adds fragrance.
  • 1 1 medium-sized red onion, sliced Brings sweetness.
  • 1/2 teaspoon 1/2 teaspoon of salt Enhances flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon 1/2 teaspoon of pepper Enhances flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon 1/2 teaspoon of red chili flakes Adds subtle kick.
  • 1 diced 1 diced red pepper Contributes freshness.
  • 2 cups 2 cups of chopped spinach Nutritious green element.
Cheese Topping
  • 453 grams 1 log of fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced Creates a melted top.
  • 10 leaves 10 fresh basil leaves A fragrant garnish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large pot of boiling water, cook the rigatoni pasta until just before al dente, about 6-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and cook for about 3-4 minutes until lightly browned.
  4. Add the sliced red onion and minced garlic to the pan, sautéing for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  5. Pour in the marinara sauce, sour cream, salt, pepper, and red chili flakes. Stir well and bring to a boil.
  6. Stir in the diced red pepper and chopped spinach. Heat through for about a minute.
  7. Gently toss the cooked rigatoni pasta into the sauce mixture until coated. Remove from heat.
  8. Pour the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and spread evenly.
  9. Arrange the slices of fresh mozzarella cheese on top.
Baking
  1. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
  2. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve hot.

Notes

You can freeze individual portions for up to 3 months, and reheat in the microwave or oven. Feel free to swap pasta shapes, add more vegetables, or use different cheeses for variety.