Oh my goodness, let me tell you about one of my all-time favorite dishes—Baked Chicken Ricotta Pasta! This recipe is a delightful blend of cheesy goodness with tender chicken nestled among perfectly baked pasta. It’s that type of comfort food that instantly warms your soul.
I remember the first time I made this dish—it was a chilly Sunday evening, and my friends had come over to catch up. I decided to whip up something that would not only be hearty but also feel special. As the aroma filled the kitchen, I could see their eyes widen in excitement. We sat down together, shared some laughs, and dug in. The warm, cheesy pasta with just a hint of herb was an instant hit! Now, whenever I make it, it feels like I’m recreating that cozy gathering.
Let’s dive into why this dish is so incredible and what you’ll need to whip it up!
What’s in Baked Chicken Ricotta Pasta?
Pasta: I typically go for penne or rigatoni; their shapes hold the sauce beautifully! Plus, they bake up perfectly.
Chicken Breast: Chicken is the star of this show, giving the dish its protein punch. I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken breast for a leaner option.
Ricotta Cheese: This creamy delight is the secret ingredient that adds richness and a touch of sweetness to the pasta. It creates that luxurious texture we all love!
Marinara Sauce: A good jarred marinara sauce works wonders here. I like brands that are low in sugar and high in flavor, like Rao’s or a homemade version if I have time!
Shredded Mozzarella: Who can resist gooey, melted mozzarella? It adds that melty stretch that takes this dish over the top.
Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan on top offers a savory bite and nice crunch when melted.
Spinach: Fresh or frozen spinach adds a dose of green goodness and balances out the flavors with its earthy taste.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of dried herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme kicks the flavor into high gear.
Is Baked Chicken Ricotta Pasta Good for You?
Oh, you bet it is! This dish is a wholesome option, thanks to its mix of ingredients:
Chicken Breast: Loaded with protein, it supports muscle maintenance and keeps you feeling full.
Ricotta Cheese: While it’s creamy, it contains calcium for strong bones and can aid in heart health when consumed in moderation.
Spinach: A leafy green packed with iron and vitamins! It’s great for your skin, eyes, and bone health.
Though delicious, moderation is key since the pasta is the main carb source, and too much cheese can add up in calories. You can always swap regular pasta for a whole grain option or gluten-free pasta if you’re looking to cut carbs or accommodate dietary needs.
Ingredients List
– 8 ounces of pasta (penne or rigatoni)
– 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded
– 1 cup of ricotta cheese
– 1 jar (24 ounces) of marinara sauce
– 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cups of fresh spinach (or 1 cup frozen, thawed and drained)
– 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper, to taste
**Servings:** This recipe comfortably serves 4-6 people.
How to Make Baked Chicken Ricotta Pasta?
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the pasta according to package instructions, but undercook it by 2 minutes since it will continue cooking in the oven. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, ricotta cheese, marinara sauce, and spinach. Mix well until everything is coated.
4. Stir in Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Pour half of the cheesy mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese on top, then layer with the remaining pasta mixture.
7. Top with the remaining mozzarella and all of the Parmesan cheese.
8. Cover the dish with aluminum foil (to avoid sticking, you can spray foil with cooking spray). Bake it in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes.
9. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
10. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Cheesy Tips and Variations!
– You can add veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrient goodness.
– If you want a spicier kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the mix.
– Don’t forget to sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top right before serving for an extra pop of color!
– This dish is a great make-ahead option. You can assemble it in advance and freeze it before baking. Just add about 10 more minutes to the baking time if cooking from frozen!
Trust me; you don’t want to miss out on this delightful Baked Chicken Ricotta Pasta! It’s like a warm hug on a plate. Give it a try, and I can’t wait to hear how it turns out for you! Let me know in the comments your thoughts, and feel free to share any twists you put on it! Happy cooking!