make ahead baked pasta with chicken for busy weeknight dinners
When life gets hectic, finding time to prepare a home-cooked meal can be a challenge. That’s where make ahead meals come into play, especially dishes like baked pasta with chicken. This comforting recipe not only saves you time but also satisfies your family’s cravings for a hearty dinner. With layers of tender pasta, savory chicken, and gooey cheese, this dish is a surefire hit for busy weeknight dinners.
This baked pasta with chicken can be prepped in advance, allowing you to enjoy a delicious homemade meal without the stress of cooking after a long day. The best part? It’s simple to make, utilizes pantry staples, and is perfect for leftovers. So, let’s dive into how to create this delicious dish!
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, sautéing until the onion is translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the chicken and tomato sauce mixture. Stir until evenly coated.
- In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, layer half of the pasta mixture. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella cheese.
- Add the remaining pasta mixture on top and finish with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Allow the baked pasta to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Tips for Success
To make this baked pasta even more convenient, you can prepare it the night before. Assemble the dish and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold.
If you’re looking to add more veggies, consider mixing in some spinach or bell peppers into the sauce. This not only boosts the nutrient content but also adds vibrant colors to your dish.
Storing and Reheating
This make ahead baked pasta with chicken is perfect for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place servings in a microwave-safe dish and heat until warmed through, or re-bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot.
Freezing is also an option! You can freeze the assembled dish before baking. Just cover tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. When you’re ready to eat, bake from frozen, adding additional time as needed until the center is hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is a great choice, feel free to substitute with other pasta shapes such as rigatoni or fusilli. Just ensure that the pasta is not overcooked before mixing it with the sauce.
Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Yes, using leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken is a great way to save time. Just shred or dice the chicken and mix it into the sauce.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make this baked pasta vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables, such as zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers. You can also add beans for protein.
What can I serve with baked pasta?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or garlic bread. A light green salad with a vinaigrette can balance the richness of the pasta well.
Conclusion
This make ahead baked pasta with chicken is the ultimate solution for busy weeknight dinners. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, it’s a dish your family will love. Enjoy the convenience of having a hearty meal ready to go, and savor the delightful taste of homemade comfort food.
So gather your ingredients, whip up this easy recipe, and reclaim your evenings with family around the dinner table!
