Comfort Food Baked Chicken Pasta

Name: Comfort Food Baked Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or fusilli); 2 cups shredded cooked chicken; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Meals Inspiration

I absolutely love this Comfort Food Baked Chicken Pasta recipe! It's the ultimate cozy dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any gathering. The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly baked pasta is a delightful blend that I always crave, especially on chilly evenings. Each bite is rich and comforting, making it a family favorite. What I enjoy most is how easily I can prepare it ahead of time. It’s a go-to for busy nights when I want something delicious with minimal fuss.

Created by

Nicola Fairchild

Last updated on 2026-02-15T03:29:37.044Z

When I first made this baked chicken pasta, I wanted a dish that would remind me of my childhood. I decided to try a few different cheeses and a homemade sauce that combined my favorite flavors. The combination turned out to be a huge hit!

The secret is to bake it until bubbly and golden on top. This not only enhances the flavors but also gives the pasta that irresistible crispy texture. I assure you, this dish will become a regular on your dining table!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy sauce that envelops each piece of pasta perfectly
Easy to make ahead for busy weeknights
Generous portions that are satisfying and filling

Creating the Perfect Sauce

The creamy sauce is the heart of this Comfort Food Baked Chicken Pasta. As you heat the olive oil, make sure not to let it smoke; medium heat is ideal to release flavors without burning. The heavy cream adds a rich texture, while the chicken broth brings depth. Stir consistently to combine these elements smoothly, creating a luscious sauce that lightly coats the pasta. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes during the simmering process.

When seasoning the sauce, taste as you go. Salt can enhance the flavors, but too much can overpower the dish. I recommend starting with a quarter teaspoon, then adjusting to your preference. The key is to achieve a balance where the creaminess and chicken broth shine through, complemented by the garlic and oregano's aroma. Simmer until the sauce thickens slightly—look for a glossy finish, which indicates it’s ready to mingle with the pasta.

Layering for Maximum Flavor

Mixing the ingredients in a large bowl ensures that each piece of pasta and chicken is generously coated with the sauce. Use a spatula for gentle folding instead of stirring, which prevents breaking the pasta. The goal is to create a cohesive mix without compromising the integrity of the ingredients. Incorporating half of the mozzarella and parmesan right into the mixture adds flavor depth, while the remaining cheeses will create a beautiful, bubbly crust that enhances the presentation.

If you're preparing this dish ahead of time, you can layer and assemble everything in the baking dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Before baking, let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes to ensure even cooking. This advance prep is a game changer for weeknight dinners, allowing you to enjoy the comforting aroma of baked pasta without spending additional time in the kitchen.

Serving and Storing

Once out of the oven, let the pasta bake rest for about five to ten minutes before serving. This resting time allows it to set slightly, making it easier to portion without falling apart. This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or garlic bread to soak up any leftover sauce. For a bit of twist, you could add steamed broccoli or spinach to the mix before baking, enhancing both nutrition and flavor.

Storing leftovers is simple. Keep any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the pasta in a covered baking dish and warm in an oven set to 350°F (175°C) until heated through, approximately 20-25 minutes. If you want to freeze this dish, ensure it cools completely, then cover tightly and store for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, and you’ll have a cozy meal ready to enjoy again!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Comfort Food Baked Chicken Pasta:

Main Ingredients

2 cups cooked pasta (penne or fusilli)
2 cups shredded cooked chicken
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure all your ingredients are ready before you start to streamline the cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the perfect baked chicken pasta:

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring well. Mix in garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and sauce. Stir in half of the mozzarella and half of the parmesan cheese.

Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese.

Bake

Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.

Once out of the oven, let it sit for a few minutes before serving for the best texture.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding some red pepper flakes to the cream sauce! You can also use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time.

Adaptations for Dietary Needs

For a lighter option, consider substituting half of the heavy cream with Greek yogurt or a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream. This swap not only reduces calories but also adds a creamy texture that still satisfies. If you need to avoid gluten, gluten-free pasta varieties such as quinoa or brown rice pasta work beautifully and hold up well when baked.

Vegetarians can play with this recipe by replacing the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or spinach, adding heartiness without meat. You can also incorporate diced zucchini or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition. The key is to keep flavors balanced; ensure your substitutes are seasoned similarly to maintain the dish's comforting essence.

Flavor Boosters

Enhancing this baked chicken pasta can be as simple as adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley before serving. Fresh herbs elevate the dish with a burst of flavor and freshness. I love adding a sprinkle of lemon zest for an unexpected zing that brightens the creamy sauces and complements the cheese beautifully.

For those who enjoy spice, consider mixing in diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce into the sauce before baking. It adds a delightful warmth without overpowering the dish's comforting qualities, ensuring that everyone can customize their heat level at the table if desired.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of pasta?

Absolutely! Any shape of pasta will work, just make sure to cook it al dente so it holds up during baking.

→ How can I make this dish healthier?

You can substitute the heavy cream with a lighter option like Greek yogurt or a combination of almond milk and cornstarch for thickening.

→ Can I freeze the baked pasta?

Yes, this dish freezes well! Just keep it in an airtight container before baking, and you can bake directly from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ What can I serve it with?

A simple garden salad or garlic bread pairs perfectly with this comforting pasta dish.