If you are looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that will have everyone asking for seconds, this Cheesy Baked Chicken Rigatoni Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked rigatoni, and a luscious ricotta and pesto mixture all baked under a golden layer of gooey mozzarella. This recipe is the ideal blend of creamy, savory, and fresh flavors that comes together effortlessly for a hearty meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might seem simple, but each one plays a crucial role in delivering layers of taste, texture, and color to this dish. From the creamy ricotta to the zesty pesto, and the meaty chicken to the hearty rigatoni, every component shines in harmony.
- 16 ounces rigatoni pasta: The perfect tubular shape to hold sauce and cheese in every bite.
- 1 large egg: Helps bind the ricotta mixture for a silky, smooth texture.
- 16 ounces ricotta cheese (whole milk recommended): Adds a rich, creamy element that balances the tangy marinara.
- ¼ cup basil pesto: Brings a fresh, herbal punch and vibrant color to the ricotta blend.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds sharp, nutty flavor to deepen the cheese profile.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors perfectly.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Gives a gentle kick without overpowering the dish.
- 1 ½ pounds chicken breast, cut into 1 ½-inch pieces: Tender, juicy protein to make this pasta substantial.
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: A flavorful blend that seasons the chicken beautifully.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: For that essential garlic aroma and taste.
- ½ teaspoon salt: To season the chicken evenly.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle heat to the chicken.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For perfectly browning the chicken with a golden crust.
- 32 ounces marinara sauce, divided: Combines rich tomato flavor with a hint of garlic and herbs.
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Creates the irresistible, bubbly topping that pulls apart beautifully.
How to Make Cheesy Baked Chicken Rigatoni Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Cook the Pasta
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the rigatoni pasta in boiling salted water until al dente, which means it should be tender but still have a slight bite to hold up well in the bake. Drain the pasta and return it to the pot where it will be ready for mixing.
Step 2: Mix the Ricotta Filling
While the pasta is cooking, whip up the ricotta mixture. In a medium bowl, combine the large egg, ricotta cheese, basil pesto, grated Parmesan, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the ingredients form a smooth and creamy blend. This mixture will add a luxurious creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the robust marinara.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
Next, season your chicken pieces in a separate bowl with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. These spices will infuse the chicken with classic Italian flavors that uplift the entire dish.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add your seasoned chicken. Cook until each piece is nicely browned and fully cooked through, locking in moisture and developing a rich crust that adds texture to the final bake.
Step 5: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce
To the pot with the rigatoni, add the cooked chicken along with 2 cups of the marinara sauce. Stir everything well so every bite is infused with the tomatoey goodness and tender chicken flavors.
Step 6: Assemble the Bake
Take a 9×13 inch baking dish and start by pouring 1 cup of the marinara sauce evenly across the bottom. Then add your pasta and chicken mixture, spreading it out evenly. Spoon the remaining 1 cup of marinara sauce on top, followed by dollops of the ricotta mixture gently smoothed over the surface. Finally, cover everything with the shredded mozzarella cheese that will melt and brown beautifully.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to keep moisture in, and bake for 23 to 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the dish is bubbling and the mozzarella is melted and lightly browned, signaling that magic cheese pull moment.
Step 8: Rest and Serve
Let the Cheesy Baked Chicken Rigatoni Pasta Recipe rest for about 5 minutes after baking; this allows it to set, making it easier to serve and letting flavors meld together even more beautifully.
How to Serve Cheesy Baked Chicken Rigatoni Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil leaves adds an inviting pop of green and a lovely fresh aroma that cuts through the richness of the cheese. A light dusting of extra grated Parmesan on top can also elevate the presentation and flavor.
Side Dishes
This pasta dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette, or a side of steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus to add a healthy crunch and balance to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the pasta in individual ramekins or small casserole dishes for a charming personal touch. You can also add a drizzle of basil pesto or a handful of toasted pine nuts on top just before serving for extra texture and flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, making the next day’s meal just as delicious, if not more.
Freezing
This dish freezes beautifully. Cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator to ensure even reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers covered with foil in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 25 minutes or until warmed through. This prevents the pasta from drying out and helps maintain that lovely gooey cheese texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While rigatoni is ideal because it holds sauce so well, penne or ziti also work great. Just make sure to cook the pasta al dente so it doesn’t become mushy after baking.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the chicken and add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini. The cheese and pesto mixture ensures it remains rich and flavorful even without the meat.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time before baking?
Yes, you can assemble the entire dish the night before, cover it tightly, and keep it in the fridge. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from cold.
What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?
If ricotta isn’t available, cottage cheese blended until smooth can work in a pinch. Alternatively, cream cheese mixed with a little milk can offer similar creaminess.
How spicy is the Cheesy Baked Chicken Rigatoni Pasta Recipe?
This recipe is mild with just a touch of black pepper for warmth. Feel free to add red pepper flakes if you like a bit more of a kick.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Baked Chicken Rigatoni Pasta Recipe truly stands out as a satisfying and versatile dish that brings comfort and joy to any table. It’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or whenever you crave something wholesome and delicious. I can’t wait for you to enjoy this recipe as much as I do—trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
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Cheesy Baked Chicken Rigatoni Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Cheesy Baked Chicken Rigatoni Pasta is a comforting Italian-American favorite featuring al dente rigatoni pasta combined with tender, seasoned chicken breast and a rich ricotta pesto mixture. Baked to perfection with layers of marinara sauce and melted mozzarella, this hearty casserole is perfect for family dinners or special gatherings.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 16 ounces rigatoni pasta
Ricotta Mixture
- 1 large egg
- 16 ounces ricotta cheese (whole milk recommended)
- ¼ cup basil pesto
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Chicken
- 1 ½ pounds chicken breast, cut into 1 ½-inch pieces
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Sauce and Cheese
- 32 ounces marinara sauce, divided
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the rigatoni pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and return it to the pot to keep warm.
- Make Ricotta Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the egg, ricotta cheese, basil pesto, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until all ingredients are fully incorporated and smooth.
- Season Chicken: In a separate bowl, season the chicken breast pieces with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated.
- Cook Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook until they are browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally to brown evenly.
- Combine Pasta and Chicken: Add the cooked chicken and 2 cups of marinara sauce to the pot with the rigatoni pasta. Stir gently to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Assemble the Dish: Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Pour the pasta and chicken mixture over the sauce. Spoon the remaining 1 cup of marinara sauce on top. Dollop the ricotta mixture evenly over the marinara layer and smooth it gently with a spoon. Finally, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 23-25 minutes until the dish is bubbly and the cheese is melted and lightly browned on top.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and allow it to stand for 5 minutes before serving. Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley or basil for added color and flavor.
Notes
- For best results, cook the pasta just until al dente, as it will continue cooking in the oven.
- You can substitute basil pesto with sun-dried tomato pesto for a different flavor.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add crushed red pepper flakes to the chicken seasoning.
- Use whole milk ricotta cheese for a creamier texture; low-fat versions may affect the richness.
- Letting the dish rest after baking allows the flavors to meld and makes slicing easier.
