This Easy Italian Rigatoni Chicken & Tomato Bake Casserole is a delightful dish that combines rigatoni, cooked chicken, and a flavorful tomato-based sauce. It’s a practical choice for pasta dinners and weeknight meals, offering comfort and satisfaction in every bite.
With variations that often include tomato basil sauce and a creamy finish, this recipe is perfect for those looking to enjoy Chicken Rigatoni or explore different Rigatoni Pasta Recipes.
Delicious Chicken Rigatoni Bake
The Easy Italian Rigatoni Chicken & Tomato Bake Casserole is a delightful fusion of flavors that brings comfort to any dinner table.
This dish features tender rigatoni pasta combined with juicy chicken and a rich tomato basil sauce, creating a satisfying meal for family gatherings or weeknight dinners.
With the addition of creamy elements, this casserole transforms into a creamy tomato pasta experience that is hard to resist.
It’s an excellent choice for those seeking Chicken Rigatoni recipes or exploring various Rigatoni Pasta Recipes.
Ingredients That Shine
To create this mouthwatering casserole, you’ll need a handful of simple yet flavorful ingredients.
The star of the dish is the rigatoni pasta, which holds the sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
Juicy, cooked chicken adds protein and heartiness, while the tomato basil sauce infuses the dish with a vibrant taste.
Topping it all off is a generous layer of melted cheese, which creates a golden crust that is simply irresistible.
Preparation Made Easy
Preparing this casserole is straightforward and quick, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Start by cooking the rigatoni until it reaches the perfect al dente texture, then combine it with the chicken and sauce in a large bowl.
Once everything is mixed well, transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish, sprinkle with cheese, and let the oven work its magic.
In just about 50 minutes, you’ll have a bubbling dish ready to serve.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving, this casserole is best enjoyed hot, straight from the oven.
For a complete meal, pair it with a fresh side salad, which adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the casserole.
Garnishing with fresh basil not only enhances the presentation but also adds a touch of freshness that complements the tomato basil sauce beautifully.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This Easy Italian Rigatoni Chicken & Tomato Bake Casserole is versatile enough to be served at various occasions, from casual family dinners to more festive gatherings.
Its warm and inviting appearance makes it a crowd-pleaser, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a meal with loved ones, this dish is sure to impress with its comforting flavors and delightful aroma.
Nutritional Benefits
Not only is this casserole delicious, but it also offers a balanced meal option.
With a combination of carbohydrates from the pasta, protein from the chicken, and healthy fats from the cheese, it provides essential nutrients that fuel the body.
Each serving is packed with flavor while remaining mindful of calorie intake, making it a smart choice for those looking to enjoy a hearty meal without compromising on health.
Delicious Chicken Rigatoni Bake
This casserole features tender rigatoni pasta baked with juicy chicken and a rich tomato basil sauce, topped with melted cheese for a deliciously creamy tomato pasta experience. The recipe takes about 50 minutes from start to finish and serves 6 people.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces rigatoni pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 2 cups tomato basil sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked rigatoni, shredded chicken, tomato basil sauce, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve: Remove from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, and garnish with fresh basil if desired. Serve hot.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 22g
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 38g