Comfort Food Baked Chicken Pasta

Name: Comfort Food Baked Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz penne pasta; 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 2 cups alfredo sauce; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 1 cup spinach, chopped; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for greasing

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I absolutely love making Comfort Food Baked Chicken Pasta for my family. It's become a favorite dish that not only warms our hearts but also satisfies our cravings for something cheesy and delicious. In just a few steps, I can combine tender chicken, hearty pasta, and a creamy sauce that is baked to perfection. The best part is that it’s comforting without being overly complicated, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Trust me, you’ll want to add this to your meal rotation!

Created by

Selene Woodward

Last updated on 2026-02-15T00:19:36.401Z

When I first made this Comfort Food Baked Chicken Pasta, I was amazed at how quickly it came together and how much flavor it packed. After experimenting with different ingredients, I decided that a blend of cream, cheese, and spices worked harmoniously to create a saucy, irresistible dish that my family can't get enough of. I also love that it’s versatile—feel free to toss in your favorite veggies!

One tip I always share is to cook the pasta just a minute less than the package instructions recommend. This helps prevent it from getting mushy while baking, ensuring that it holds its shape and texture. Top with fresh herbs before serving for an added burst of flavor!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy, rich sauce that brings comfort to every bite
Cheesy goodness that melts beautifully in the oven
Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or spices

The Importance of Timing

Cooking the pasta to the perfect al dente texture is crucial in this recipe. By boiling penne for about seven minutes, you ensure it won’t become mushy during baking. Remember, the pasta will continue to cook when mixed with the sauce and while baking, so caution is key. Setting a timer can help maintain that ideal texture, ensuring your dish has a delightful bite.

Another timing element to monitor is the baking duration. Keep a close eye on the casserole towards the end of the 25-30 minute baking time. Look for a bubbly surface and golden-brown edges as indicators that it’s ready. This ensures that the top layer of cheese melts beautifully without overcooking the creamy sauce underneath.

Ingredient Substitutions and Customization

One of the best aspects of this baked chicken pasta is its flexibility. If you're short on alfredo sauce, a homemade version using butter, cream, and Parmesan can work wonders. Additionally, consider trying a white sauce made with ricotta for a slightly different flavor and texture. You can also swap out the cooked chicken for shredded rotisserie chicken, which saves time and adds a delicious seasoned flavor.

For those looking to make the dish more robust, adding vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or broccoli could enhance both the color and nutrition. Just ensure any added vegetables are cooked to tenderness before mixing them into the pasta to ensure even cooking in the oven.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to prepare this delicious dish:

Ingredients

8 oz penne pasta
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
2 cups alfredo sauce
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1 cup spinach, chopped
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for greasing

Make sure you have everything ready before starting.

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your baked chicken pasta:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the penne pasta for 7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

Prepare the Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, alfredo sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt and pepper. Stir until well combined.

Add Spinach and Cheese

Fold in the chopped spinach until evenly distributed, then add half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, mixing gently.

Transfer to Baking Dish

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with olive oil and pour the pasta mixture into it, spreading evenly.

Top and Bake

Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until bubbling and golden brown.

Serve

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your comforting dish!

Enjoy your baked chicken pasta hot from the oven!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding some Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Additionally, leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated for a quick meal the next day.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Comfort Food Baked Chicken Pasta can easily be prepared ahead of time, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Prepare the pasta and sauce mixture, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply sprinkle on the cheese and follow the standard baking instructions, adding a few extra minutes if coming straight from the fridge.

Another option for meal prep aficionados is to freeze portions of the dish. Assemble the entire recipe but leave off the cheese topping. Take advantage of freezer-safe containers, and this dish can be stored for up to three months. When ready to eat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before baking, covering with foil to prevent excess browning.

Serving Suggestions

For serving, I highly recommend pairing this baked chicken pasta with a simple green salad drizzled with vinaigrette. The acidity from the dressing beautifully balances the richness of the dish, adding a refreshing contrast. Garlic bread also makes an excellent accompaniment, perfect for scooping up any cheesy goodness left on your plate.

To elevate your presentation, garnish the finished dish with freshly chopped parsley or basil before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the aroma right before digging in. If you want to impress guests, consider serving this meal with a glass of crisp white wine that complements the creamy flavors perfectly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes, you can use any pasta shape you like, just adjust the cooking time as needed.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the chicken with sautéed vegetables or tofu for a tasty vegetarian option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Cool the pasta completely and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze baked chicken pasta?

Yes, this dish freezes well. Just make sure to let it cool completely before freezer storage.