This Chicken Rigatoni Pasta Bake is a cozy dish that combines hearty rigatoni pasta, tender chicken, and a creamy sauce. It’s topped with gooey cheese that melts beautifully!
You can’t go wrong with cheesy pasta, right? I love to serve this bake fresh from the oven; the smell alone makes everyone gather around. It’s a family favorite for sure! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rigatoni Pasta: This tube-shaped pasta holds the sauce well. If rigatoni isn’t available, you can use penne or ziti as good substitutes. They all have a similar shape and texture that works great in bakes.
Cooked Chicken: I love using shredded rotisserie chicken for this recipe because it saves time. Alternatively, you can use any leftover chicken or even turkey. For a vegetarian option, consider using cooked lentils or mushrooms instead.
Marinara Sauce: You can opt for a homemade marinara or choose your favorite store-bought version. Feel free to add some Italian seasoning or crushed red pepper for extra flavor. If you prefer a lighter option, try a tomato basil sauce instead.
Mozzarella Cheese: While mozzarella gives a nice stretchiness, you can mix it up with other cheeses like cheddar or provolone. For a healthier twist, you could use part-skim mozzarella or a dairy-free cheese alternative.
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Cooked Pasta Without Overcooking?
The key to delicious pasta in a bake is cooking it just right! Follow these steps for best results:
- Start with salted water – it should taste a bit like the sea. This helps season your pasta!
- Cook the rigatoni until it’s al dente, which means it’s still slightly firm when bitten. This helps it hold up in the oven.
- Always save some pasta water. If your sauce is too thick, adding a splash of this water helps achieve the right consistency.
- Drain and rinse it quickly under cold water briefly if you’re worried about it sticking together. This stops the cooking process.
Following these tips will help ensure your pasta bake has the best texture and flavor!
How to Make Chicken Rigatoni Pasta Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta Bake:
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Chicken Rigatoni Pasta Bake will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 25 minutes to bake, so you’re looking at around 40 minutes total. In no time, you’ll have a comforting and tasty dish that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
First things first, let’s get your oven ready! Preheat it to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake.
2. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your rigatoni pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, meaning it’s cooked but still firm. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Veggies:
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté it until it becomes translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking until the mushrooms are soft and the onions are golden, which will take about 5 more minutes. Sprinkle some salt and pepper to bring out the flavors!
4. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Add your cooked chicken and marinara sauce to the skillet. Stir it all together until it’s well mixed. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes, allowing those delicious flavors to blend.
5. Mix Everything Together:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rigatoni pasta with the chicken and sauce mixture. Add half of the mozzarella cheese and gently toss everything until the pasta is well-coated.
6. Prepare to Bake:
Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Now sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese on top for that cheesy goodness!
7. Bake the Pasta:
Place your baking dish in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly with some lightly golden spots.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, take it out of the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes to cool slightly. Before serving, garnish with some chopped fresh parsley for a nice touch. Dish it up warm, and enjoy your comforting Chicken Rigatoni Pasta Bake!
Dig in and savor every cheesy bite of this wonderful dish! 😊
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works great and saves you time. Just make sure it’s shredded or diced for easier mixing with the pasta and sauce.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes, you can! Simply replace the chicken with cooked lentils, chickpeas, or extra veggies like spinach and zucchini for a hearty vegetarian option.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or oven until heated through, adding a splash of marinara sauce if needed to keep it moist.
Can I Freeze This Pasta Bake?
Definitely! You can freeze the assembled but unbaked pasta bake. Just cover it tightly and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then bake as directed.