Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Spray a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray and set it aside.
- Cook 1 pound pasta (rigatoni or penne) according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- If your chicken is not already cooked, cook it through, then chop into bite-sized pieces. If it is cooked, chop it into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
- Cut the pint of grape tomatoes in half. Reserve some tomato halves for garnish and set the rest aside for the casserole.
- In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups marinara sauce, 1/4 cup heavy cream, 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar, and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan until smooth and combined.
- Add the drained pasta, chopped cooked chicken, 6 ounces cubed mozzarella, the tomato halves reserved for the casserole, and 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil to the sauce. Gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared 9x13-inch baking dish and spread into an even layer.
- Arrange the 6 fresh mozzarella rounds on top of the casserole in an even pattern.
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until the casserole is heated through and the cheese on top is bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes. Garnish with the reserved grape tomato halves and 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil before serving.
