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Baked creamy chicken pasta in a casserole dish topped with cheese

Cheesy Chicken Pasta Bake

A comforting dish filled with creamy, cheesy goodness and tender chicken, perfect for family dinners and potlucks.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 425

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast Juicy and tender for a satisfying protein.
  • 8 ounces uncooked pasta Choose your favorite shape.
  • 28 ounces spaghetti sauce Provides depth and richness.
  • 2 cups part-skim mozzarella cheese Adds creamy, melty texture.
  • 1/2 cup fat-free cottage cheese Enhances texture without many calories.
  • 1/4 cup part-skim ricotta cheese Adds creaminess and sweetness.
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning Brings a wonderful herbaceous note.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large skillet coated with cooking spray, set over medium-high heat, cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and sauté for about 7 to 10 minutes, or until fully cooked.
  3. While the chicken is cooking, bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Mixing and Baking
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, drained pasta, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, cottage cheese, ricotta cheese, and Italian seasoning. Stir gently to combine.
  2. Pour the mixture into a 9x13 casserole dish coated with cooking spray and bake covered with foil for 25 to 30 minutes.
  3. Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until bubbly and melted.
Serving
  1. Allow the dish to cool for 10 minutes before serving. Pair with crusty bread for an extra treat.

Notes

Consider using rotisserie chicken for a quicker option, and feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to boost nutrition.