Baked Chicken Rigatoni

As a busy home cook, I’m always on the lookout for recipes that are both delicious and easy to make. That’s why I love Baked Chicken Rigatoni—it’s a dish that checks all the boxes: it’s quick, easy, and packed with flavors that everyone in the family will enjoy. In this recipe, I’ll guide you through making a mouthwatering baked rigatoni dish that combines tender chicken, rich marinara sauce, and creamy cheese.

Why You’ll Love It

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe is perfect for weeknights or when you need a quick meal. It requires minimal prep time and can be ready in just over an hour.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices to make it your own.
• Comforting: The combination of pasta, chicken, and cheese makes it a comforting meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Quick Facts

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Serving Size: 6-8 people

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 16 ounces Rigatoni pasta
• 1 large egg
• 16 ounces Ricotta cheese (whole milk for a creamier bake)
• ¼ cup basil pesto
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper

For the Chicken

• 1 ½ pounds chicken breast
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For Layering

• 32 ounces Marinara sauce (divided)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded Mozzarella cheese

How to Make It

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Cook Pasta: Boil rigatoni in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Prepare Ricotta Mixture: In a bowl, mix the egg, ricotta cheese, pesto, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook Chicken: Cut chicken into pieces and season with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook in olive oil until browned.
5. Combine Pasta and Chicken: Add cooked chicken and 2 cups of marinara sauce to the pasta. Mix well.
6. Assemble the Dish: Place 1 cup of marinara sauce in a 9×13 baking dish. Add the pasta mixture, then top with another cup of marinara sauce. Dollop the ricotta mixture over the sauce and cover with mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 23-25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is lightly browned.

Serving Suggestions

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle with parsley or basil for a fresh touch.
• Side Salad: Serve with a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
• Garlic Bread: Pair with garlic bread for a satisfying dinner.

Tips for Customization

• Add Vegetables: Throw in some sautéed spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition.
• Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Use Different Cheese: Experiment with other cheeses like provolone or cheddar.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 35g
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 400mg

FAQs

1. Can I Use Pre-Cooked Chicken?
   • Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken to save time. Just shred or chop it and add it to the pasta mixture.
2. Can I Freeze This Dish?
   • Yes, you can assemble the dish without baking and freeze it. Bake when you’re ready.
3. How Do I Prevent the Cheese from Browning Too Quickly?
   • Use foil to cover the dish during the initial baking time to prevent over-browning.
4. Can I Make This Dish Spicy?
   • Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the marinara sauce for a spicy twist.

This Baked Chicken Rigatoni is a versatile dish that can be tailored to your family’s tastes. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal or a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy experimenting with different flavors and ingredients to make it your own!