If you’re a fan of hearty, comforting meals, then you’re going to love this Baked Chicken Penne Pasta! With tender chunks of chicken, a rich tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese, this dish is perfect for a cozy dinner. Best of all, it’s easy to make and perfect for meal prepping.
Why You’ll Love This Perfect Pasta Recipe
- Easy . With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious dinner on the table in no time.
- Family-Friendly . This recipe is sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
- One-Dish Wonder . Everything bakes together, meaning fewer dishes and less cleanup!
- Make-Ahead . Prepare this dish in advance and bake it when you’re ready for a quick, hot meal.
- Versatile . You can easily customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables or switch up the cheese.
With this Baked Chicken Penne Pasta, you’re creating a flavorful, cheesy dish that will leave everyone at the table asking for seconds. It’s perfect for casual family dinners, gatherings with friends, or even a romantic night in.
What Does Chicken Penne Pasta Taste Like?
The creamy, cheesy layers combined with the tender chicken and pasta create a comfort-food masterpiece. The penne pasta perfectly soaks up the tomato-based sauce, while the melted cheese on top brings everything together in the most satisfying way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 12 Ounces Penne Pasta - Penne holds onto the sauce well, making it the perfect choice for this dish. Cook until al dente.
- 2 Chicken Breasts - Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for tender chunks of protein.
- 2 Cups Marinara Sauce - Choose a high-quality marinara sauce or make your own for the freshest flavor.
- 1 Cup Mozzarella Cheese - Melts beautifully for a gooey, cheesy topping.
- 1/2 Cup Parmesan Cheese - Adds a salty, nutty flavor to the dish.
- 2 TBSP Olive Oil - For sautéing the chicken.
- 3 Cloves Garlic - Fresh garlic adds a depth of flavor to the sauce.
- Salt & Black Pepper - Simple seasonings to enhance the flavors.
- Basil or Parsley - Fresh herbs for garnish, adding a pop of color and freshness.
How To Make Chicken Penne Pasta
- Cook the Pasta Boil the penne in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Chicken In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken breasts and cook until browned on all sides. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink in the center.
- Combine the Pasta and Sauce In the same skillet (or a large mixing bowl), combine the cooked penne, marinara sauce, and half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
- Transfer to Baking Dish Pour the pasta and chicken mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake to Perfection Preheat the oven to 375°F and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a burst of freshness.
Tips And Tricks
Making Baked Chicken Penne Pasta is easy, but these tips can help you achieve the best results every time:
- Undercook the Pasta . Cook the penne until it’s just al dente. This helps prevent the pasta from becoming too soft when baked with the sauce.
- Use Fresh Cheese . Grating your own mozzarella and Parmesan ensures the best melt and flavor.
- Add Veggies . You can easily add some sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Make Ahead . Assemble the dish in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This is great for busy weeknights.
Variations
Want to customize your Baked Chicken Penne Pasta? Here are a few tasty variations:
- Creamy- Swap the marinara sauce for a creamy Alfredo sauce or add a splash of heavy cream to the tomato sauce for extra richness.
- Spicy- Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Version - Skip the chicken and add a medley of roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and cherry tomatoes.
- Pesto- Replace the marinara with basil pesto for a bright and herby version of this classic dish.
What To Eat With Chicken Penne Pasta
This Chicken Penne Pasta is a hearty dish, but it pairs well with a few lighter sides:
- Garlic Bread - You can’t go wrong with a side of crusty garlic bread to soak up any extra sauce.
- Caesar Salad - A crisp Caesar salad with a tangy dressing balances out the richness of the pasta.
- Roasted Vegetables - Try roasted asparagus or Brussels sprouts for a healthy and delicious side.
How Long Does It Last?
Baked Chicken Penne Pasta can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to cover the dish tightly or transfer it to an airtight container to keep it fresh.
Can You Freeze It?
Yes! To freeze, assemble the dish but don’t bake it. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the pasta in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
More Simple Weeknight Meals
- Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup
- Crock Pot Sloppy Joes
- Beef And Bean Enchiladas
- Chicken Street Tacos
- Baked Chicken Teriyaki
- Baked Tortellini
- Chili Mac
- Puff Pastry Pizza
- Cheese Manicotti
- Teriyaki Noodles
Chicken Penne Pasta Recipe | Quick And Easy Pasta Dish
Ingredients
- ▢ 12 ounces Penne Pasta
- ▢ 2 Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts
- ▢ 2 cups Marinara Sauce
- ▢ 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese
- ▢ 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese
- ▢ 2 tbsp Olive Oil
- ▢ 3 cloves Garlic , minced
- ▢ 1/2 tsp Kosher Salt
- ▢ 1/4 tsp Ground Black Pepper
- ▢ Basil , to Garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta Boil the penne in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Chicken In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken breasts and cook until browned on all sides. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink in the center.
- Combine the Pasta and Sauce In the same skillet (or a large mixing bowl), combine the cooked penne, marinara sauce, and half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
- Transfer to Baking Dish Pour the pasta and chicken mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake to Perfection Preheat the oven to 375°F and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a burst of freshness.
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Chicken Penne Pasta Recipe | Quick And Easy Pasta Dish
Ingredients
- 12 ounces Penne Pasta
- 2 Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts
- 2 cups Marinara Sauce
- 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese
- 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil
- 3 cloves Garlic minced
- 1/2 tsp Kosher Salt
- 1/4 tsp Ground Black Pepper
- Basil to Garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta Boil the penne in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Chicken In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken breasts and cook until browned on all sides. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink in the center.
- Combine the Pasta and Sauce In the same skillet (or a large mixing bowl), combine the cooked penne, marinara sauce, and half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
- Transfer to Baking Dish Pour the pasta and chicken mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake to Perfection Preheat the oven to 375°F and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a burst of freshness.
Chicken Penne Pasta Recipe | Quick And Easy Pasta Dish https://twosleevers.com/chicken-penne-pasta-recipe/
If you’re craving a cozy, delicious treat perfect for fall, these Apple Cinnamon Rolls are exactly what you need! Soft, fluffy dough rolled with sweet cinnamon and filled with juicy apples—each bite is pure comfort. They’re simple to make and will fill your kitchen with the irresistible scent of cinnamon and apples.
Why You’ll Love This Brilliant Bite
- Delicious Fall Flavors . Apple and cinnamon are a match made in heaven, especially when paired in a tender, homemade roll.
- Perfect for Any Occasion . These rolls are a great way to celebrate fall, but they’re also a delicious treat for breakfast, dessert, or a weekend brunch.
- Make-Ahead Friendly . You can prep these cinnamon rolls in advance and bake them fresh when ready.
With their warm flavors and gooey cinnamon apple filling, these Apple Cinnamon Rolls are a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
What Do Apple Cinnamon Rolls Taste Like?
These apple cinnamon rolls have the perfect balance of flavors. The sweet apples add a burst of fruity freshness, while the cinnamon provides warmth and spice.
The soft, buttery dough creates the ideal base, making each bite melt in your mouth. The added drizzle of a creamy icing takes these rolls to the next level of indulgence!
Are Apple Cinnamon Rolls Breakfast Or Dessert?
Apple cinnamon rolls can be enjoyed as both breakfast and dessert !
- For Breakfast : They’re perfect for a sweet morning treat, especially when paired with a cup of coffee or tea. The soft, doughy texture and the warmth of the apples and cinnamon make them an indulgent start to the day.
- For Dessert : Apple cinnamon rolls can easily be transformed into a decadent dessert by serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
The beauty of these rolls is their versatility—they’re delicious no matter the time of day!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- All-Purpose Flour - The foundation for a light and fluffy dough.
- Milk - Warm milk helps activate the yeast and adds richness to the dough.
- Active Dry Yeast - This helps the dough rise, making your rolls soft and pillowy.
- Sugar - Granulated sugar sweetens the dough and helps activate the yeast.
- Butter - Unsalted butter adds richness to both the dough and the filling.
- Egg - Adds structure and richness to the dough.
- Cinnamon - The star spice of these rolls, providing that warm and cozy flavor.
- Apples - Peeled and diced for a juicy, fruity filling. Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples work best for their tartness.
- Brown Sugar - Adds sweetness to the cinnamon filling and caramelizes with the apples.
- Caramel Sauce - To drizzle over the cooked cinnamon rolls.
How To Make Apple Cinnamon Rolls
- Prepare the Dough . In a small bowl, warm the milk to about 110°F and sprinkle the active dry yeast over the top. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and egg. Gradually add the milk-yeast mixture and melted butter, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead and Rise . Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
- Prepare the Apple Filling . While the dough is rising, peel, core, and dice the apples into small pieces. In a skillet, melt the butter and sauté the apples with brown sugar and cinnamon until tender, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside to cool.
- Roll and Fill the Dough . Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a large rectangle on a floured surface. Spread softened butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon and brown sugar mixture across the surface. Add the cooled apple filling.
- Roll and Cut . Carefully roll the dough from one long edge to the other, creating a log. Slice the log into 9 even rolls using a sharp knife or dental floss.
- Second Rise . Place the rolls into a greased baking dish, cover with a towel, and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
- Bake to Perfection . Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
- Top With Caramel . Drizzle the caramel sauce over the warm apple cinnamon rolls once they’re out of the oven.
Tips And Tricks
- Make sure your yeast is fresh . If your yeast doesn’t foam when combined with warm milk, it may be expired. Start with fresh yeast to ensure a good rise.
- Don’t overstuff the rolls . Too much filling can make the rolls difficult to roll and may cause the dough to tear. Use just enough apples and cinnamon sugar for a balanced flavor.
- Room temperature butter . Make sure your butter is soft and spreadable for easy spreading on the dough. Cold butter can tear the dough.
- Fluffy dough tip . Knead the dough well to develop the gluten, which will make the rolls soft and chewy.
Variations
- Caramel Apple - Add a drizzle of homemade caramel sauce over the rolls for an extra decadent treat.
- Pecan - Sprinkle chopped pecans over the cinnamon sugar before rolling for a crunchy addition.
- Maple Icing - Swap out the vanilla extract for maple syrup in the icing for a fall-inspired twist.
- Raisin - Mix in a handful of raisins with the apple filling for extra sweetness.
What To Enjoy With Cinnamon Rolls
These sweet and fluffy rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert. Here are a few serving ideas:
- Coffee or Tea - The warm spices of the cinnamon pair perfectly with a hot cup of coffee or tea.
- Vanilla Ice Cream - Serve these rolls warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
- Fresh Fruit Salad - A light, refreshing fruit salad will balance the richness of the rolls for a perfect brunch combination.
Can You Make Them Ahead Of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the rolls through the second rise and store them covered in the refrigerator overnight. In the morning, let them come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking as directed.
How Long Do They Last?
Keep the rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 5 days.
Reheat individual rolls in the microwave for 20-30 seconds for a warm, fresh-from-the-oven taste.
Can You Freeze Them?
These rolls freeze well! Wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap and store it in a freezer bag. They will last up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating
Our Best Cinnamon Roll Recipes
- Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls
- Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls
- Blueberry Cinnamon Rolls
- Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread
- Orange Rolls
Apple Cinnamon Rolls | Apple Filled Cinnamon Roll Recipe
Ingredients
For The Dough
- ▢ 2 3/4 cups All Purpose Flour
- ▢ 3/4 cup Milk , warm
- ▢ 2 1/4 tsp Active Dry Yeast
- ▢ 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar
- ▢ 1/4 cup Unsalted Butter , melted
- ▢ 1 Egg
- ▢ 1/2 tsp Kosher Salt
For The Filling
- ▢ 2 tbsp Unsalted Butter , softened
- ▢ 1 1/2 tsp Ground Cinnamon
- ▢ 1/3 cup Brown Sugar
- ▢ 1 1/2 cups Apples , diced
The Topping
- ▢ 1/2 cup Caramel Sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough . In a small bowl, warm the milk to about 110°F and sprinkle the active dry yeast over the top. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and egg. Gradually add the milk-yeast mixture and melted butter, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead and Rise . Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
- Prepare the Apple Filling . While the dough is rising, peel, core, and dice the apples into small pieces. In a skillet, melt the butter and sauté the apples with brown sugar and cinnamon until tender, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside to cool.
- Roll and Fill the Dough . Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a large rectangle on a floured surface. Spread softened butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon and brown sugar mixture across the surface. Add the cooled apple filling.
- Roll and Cut . Carefully roll the dough from one long edge to the other, creating a log. Slice the log into 9 even rolls using a sharp knife or dental floss.
- Second Rise . Place the rolls into a greased baking dish, cover with a towel, and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
- Bake to Perfection . Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
- Top With Caramel . Drizzle the caramel sauce over the warm apple cinnamon rolls once they’re out of the oven.
