Name: Chicken Caprese Pasta Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken (cooked and chopped, about 2 chicken breasts); 1 pound pasta (choose Rigatoni or Penne); 2 cups marinara sauce (your favorite store-bought or homemade version); ½ cup heavy cream (for a luscious, creamy texture); 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (to add a hint of tanginess); ½ cup grated parmesan cheese (for that extra cheesy goodness); 6 ounces mozzarella cheese (cut into cubes); 1 pint grape tomatoes (cut in half, with some reserved for garnish); ½ cup fresh basil (chopped, plus an additional tablespoon for garnish); 6 ounces fresh mozzarella rounds (for a beautiful, cheesy top layer)

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If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that’s bursting with flavor and easy to prepare, look no further than this delightful Chicken Caprese Pasta Casserole. Imagine the classic Caprese salad transformed into a hearty pasta dish, layered with tender chicken, fresh tomatoes, and gooey mozzarella—all brought together with a creamy marinara sauce. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or family gatherings, and it’s sure to become a favorite at your table.

Why Cooks Rave About It

This Chicken Caprese Pasta Casserole is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. The combination of chicken, pasta, and fresh ingredients creates a rich tapestry of flavors that everyone will love. Here are a few reasons why cooks can’t get enough of it:

Flavor Explosion: The blend of marinara, fresh basil, and creamy mozzarella creates an irresistible taste.
Easy to Assemble: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you can whip this up in no time.
Make Ahead: This casserole can be prepared in advance, making it a perfect meal prep option.
Kid-Friendly: The creamy pasta and cheesy goodness are sure to please even picky eaters.

What We’re Using

To create this mouthwatering Chicken Caprese Pasta Casserole, gather the following ingredients:

1 pound chicken: Cooked and chopped, about 2 chicken breasts.
1 pound pasta: Choose Rigatoni or Penne for a hearty base.
2 cups marinara sauce: Your favorite store-bought or homemade version.
½ cup heavy cream: For a luscious, creamy texture.
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar: To add a hint of tanginess.
½ cup grated parmesan cheese: For that extra cheesy goodness.
6 ounces mozzarella cheese: Cut into cubes for melty pockets of cheese.
1 pint grape tomatoes: Cut in half, with some reserved for garnish.
½ cup fresh basil: Chopped, plus an additional tablespoon for garnish.
6 fresh mozzarella rounds: For a beautiful, cheesy top layer.

Gear Up: What to Grab

Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following kitchen gear on hand:

Large pot: For boiling the pasta.
9×13 inch baking dish: To assemble and bake the casserole.
Mixing bowl: For combining the ingredients.
Knife and cutting board: To chop the chicken, tomatoes, and basil.
Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient quantities.
Oven mitts: Safety first when handling hot dishes!

Step-by-Step: Chicken Caprese Pasta Casserole

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine the marinara sauce, heavy cream, and balsamic vinegar. Stir until well blended, then add the grated parmesan cheese, chopped basil, and half of the mozzarella cubes. Mix everything together until the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Combine Chicken and Tomatoes

In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, halved grape tomatoes, and the pasta. Pour the sauce mixture over the top and gently stir until everything is well coated.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Pour the chicken and pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Top with the remaining mozzarella cubes and the fresh mozzarella rounds.

Step 5: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once heated, place the casserole in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Before serving, garnish with reserved halved grape tomatoes and the remaining fresh basil. Enjoy the delicious aroma filling your kitchen!

Substitutions by Diet

If you need to make adjustments based on dietary preferences, here are some great substitutions:

Pasta: Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.
Heavy cream: Substitute with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative for a lighter version.
Chicken: Swap for shredded rotisserie chicken to save time.
Balsamic vinegar: Use apple cider vinegar for a different flavor profile.

Watch Outs & How to Fix

While making the Chicken Caprese Pasta Casserole is straightforward, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for:

Overcooked pasta: Make sure to cook pasta until just al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
Too dry: If your casserole seems dry before baking, add a splash more heavy cream or marinara sauce.
Uneven baking: Make sure your oven is calibrated correctly for even cooking.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

To keep your Chicken Caprese Pasta Casserole as fresh as possible, consider these tips:

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: This casserole can be frozen before baking. Just cover tightly and store for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of marinara sauce to keep it moist.

Ask the Chef

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your cheese choices. Cheddar, gouda, or a blend of Italian cheeses can all work beautifully.

Is this casserole spicy?

This recipe is not spicy, but you can add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños if you like a little heat!

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the chicken and adding more vegetables, such as spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini.

What can I serve with Chicken Caprese Pasta Casserole?

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

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Let’s Eat

Now that you have all the tools and tips you need, it’s time to dig into this scrumptious Chicken Caprese Pasta Casserole. Whether you’re sharing it with family, serving it at a gathering, or indulging in a cozy night in, this dish is sure to impress. With each bite, you’ll savor the creamy sauce, tender chicken, and fresh basil, reminding you of summer days and Italian flavors. Happy cooking!