Introduction
In the realm of comfort food, few dishes can rival the ease and satisfaction of a creamy pasta bake. This Italian-inspired recipe combines tender chicken, hearty rigatoni, and a flavorful marinara sauce, all topped off with bubbling cheese. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends, it’s a one-pan wonder that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes
2 tablespoons Italian dressing (not the creamy kind)
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
16 ounces dry rigatoni pasta (1 box)
24 ounces marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup freshly shredded mozzarella cheese
Chopped fresh basil (optional, for garnish)
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: Serves 4-6
Enjoy this delightful pasta dish that not only pleases the palate but also simplifies your cooking routine!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
In a 12-inch cast iron skillet over medium-high heat, combine the cubed chicken and Italian dressing. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Cook the chicken until browned and just cooked through, approximately 5 minutes, depending on the thickness of the pieces.
Step 3: Add Pasta and Sauce
Add the rigatoni pasta and the entire jar of marinara sauce to the skillet. Fill the empty marinara jar with water and add it to the skillet. If using a stockpot instead of a skillet, use 2 cups of water. Lightly stir the mixture to combine.
Step 4: Boil and Simmer
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15 minutes, or until the pasta reaches your desired tenderness.
Step 5: Add Cheese
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta, followed by the shredded mozzarella cheese. Do not stir. Continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted. For an extra melty top, you can broil the entire skillet for about 4 minutes.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
If desired, garnish with chopped fresh basil before serving.
Notes
Note 1: Chicken Cooking Time
Ensure the chicken is cooked through and has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Note 2: Pasta Cooking
Keep an eye on the pasta as it cooks, stirring lightly if necessary to prevent sticking.
Note 3: Cheese Variations
Feel free to use other cheeses such as cheddar or provolone if preferred.
Note 4: Broiling Instructions
If broiling, watch closely to avoid burning, as the cooking time may vary based on your oven.
Note 5: Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water or sauce to maintain moisture.
Cook techniques
Marinating Chicken
Marinating the chicken in Italian dressing helps to infuse it with flavor and moisture before cooking, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
Even Cooking
Cut the chicken breasts into uniform cubes to ensure even cooking. This prevents some pieces from being undercooked while others are overdone.
One-Pan Cooking
Using a cast iron skillet allows for a one-pan meal, making cleanup easier. The skillet retains heat well, promoting even cooking and browning of the chicken.
Pasta Incorporation
Adding dry rigatoni directly to the skillet with marinara sauce and water allows the pasta to cook in the sauce, enhancing its flavor and absorbing the sauce as it cooks.
Cheese Melting Technique
Sprinkling the cheeses on top and cooking them without stirring allows for a gooey, melted cheese layer on top. Broiling at the end can create a nicely browned top layer.
Garnishing
Using fresh basil as a garnish adds a burst of color and flavor, making the dish visually appealing and enhancing the taste profile.
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, but it’s best to thaw them beforehand for even cooking. You may need to adjust the cooking time.
What can I substitute for Italian dressing?
You can make a homemade marinade using olive oil, vinegar, and Italian seasoning as an alternative.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! You can substitute with any pasta shape, but cooking time may vary.
Is it okay to add vegetables to this dish?
Yes, adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms can enhance the dish’s nutritional value and flavor.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce mixture ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator and heat it before adding the cheese and finishing the cooking process.
What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at a low temperature or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or sauce to prevent drying out.
Conclusion
This creamy and hearty pasta dish is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. The tender chicken, combined with the rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese, creates a meal that is sure to please the whole family. With the addition of fresh basil, it adds a touch of freshness to the dish, elevating it even further. Enjoy this satisfying meal any night of the week!
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chicken Alfredo Rigatoni
Replace the marinara sauce with a creamy Alfredo sauce, and add steamed broccoli for color and nutrition.
Pasta Primavera
Include a variety of seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots along with the rigatoni and chicken for a vibrant, colorful dish.
Spicy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Add Cajun seasoning to the chicken while cooking and mix in some diced tomatoes and slices of bell pepper for a flavorful kick.
Caprese Pasta Bake
Layer fresh tomatoes and basil in the dish along with mozzarella and Parmesan, then bake for a bubbling, cheesy delight.
Pesto Chicken Rigatoni
Swap out the marinara sauce for pesto, and toss in some sun-dried tomatoes for a twist of flavor.
One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Use garlic and chicken broth in place of marinara, adding spinach and peas for greens, and finish with plenty of Parmesan cheese.
