1.5lbskinless, boneless chicken breastsdiced into bite-size cubes
4garlic clovesminced
1tablespoonItalian seasoning
1teaspoonoregano
16ouncesuncooked rigatoni pasta
24ouncesjar marinara sauce
3cupswater
1teaspoonsalt
0.5teaspoonblack pepper
2cupsshredded mozzarella cheese
1cupPanko breadcrumbs
0.5cupgrated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basilchopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly spray a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking oil for an easy cleanup.
In a bowl, combine the diced chicken with minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and oregano. Toss well to coat and let it sit for about 5 minutes to absorb flavors.
Add the uncooked rigatoni pasta, marinara sauce, water, the seasoned chicken, salt, and black pepper directly into the prepared baking dish.
Stir all the ingredients thoroughly to ensure they are well combined and distributed in the baking dish.
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to prevent water evaporation and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
Carefully remove the dish from the oven, uncover, and give it a good stir. Don't worry if there's still liquid or if the pasta isn't fully cooked yet; it's part of the process.
Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella, Panko breadcrumbs, and grated Parmesan cheese over the casserole.
Return the uncovered dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, and the pasta is tender.
Garnish with fresh chopped basil just before serving to add a burst of fresh aroma and flavor.
Notes
Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 45 minutes Total Time: 60 minutes Servings: 8 Calories: 503 kcal Total Carbs: 61 g Net Carbs: 56.4 g Fats: 11 g Protein: 37 g