why make this recipe
Baked Chicken Penne is a delicious and easy meal that combines pasta and chicken in a warm, cheesy dish. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want to serve something comforting and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it requires minimal prep work, so you can pop it in the oven and have time to relax while it cooks.
how to make Baked Chicken Penne
Ingredients:
- Breaded frozen chicken patties
- Raw dry penne pasta
- Marinara sauce
- Shredded cheese
- Chopped vegetables (like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a rectangular baking pan, place the raw penne pasta at the bottom.
- Layer the frozen breaded chicken patties on top of the penne.
- Add the marinara sauce, shredded cheese, and chopped vegetables over the patties.
- Add enough water or broth to cover the pasta.
- Cover the pan with aluminum foil.
- Bake for about 30-35 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the pasta is tender.
- Remove foil, and bake for an additional 10 minutes to brown the top if desired.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
how to serve Baked Chicken Penne
To serve Baked Chicken Penne, dish it out onto plates or into bowls. You can sprinkle some extra cheese or fresh herbs on top for added flavor. This meal pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread for an extra crunch.
how to store Baked Chicken Penne
If you have leftovers, store Baked Chicken Penne in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, simply place it in the oven or microwave until heated through.
tips to make Baked Chicken Penne
- Use any vegetables you have on hand to make the dish more nutritious.
- Experiment with different types of cheese, like mozzarella, cheddar, or even a spicy pepper jack.
- For a crunchier top, broil the dish for a few minutes at the end of cooking.
variation
You can easily turn this dish into a vegetarian option by replacing the chicken patties with a plant-based alternative or simply adding more vegetables and using a meatless sauce.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pasta instead of dry penne pasta?
Yes, you can use fresh pasta, but adjust the cooking time to ensure it doesn’t overcook.
What if I don’t have marinara sauce?
You can use alfredo sauce, pesto, or any sauce you prefer. Just make sure it complements the flavors of the dish.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the dish a day in advance, cover it, and store it in the fridge. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
Baked Chicken Penne
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a rectangular baking pan, place the raw penne pasta at the bottom.
- Layer the frozen breaded chicken patties on top of the penne.
- Add the marinara sauce, shredded cheese, and chopped vegetables over the patties.
- Add enough water or broth to cover the pasta.
- Cover the pan with aluminum foil.
- Bake for about 30-35 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the pasta is tender.
- Remove foil, and bake for an additional 10 minutes to brown the top if desired.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.