Dump-and-Bake Chicken Caprese

This one-pan chicken Caprese pasta is a go-to when I want a comforting Italian dinner with hardly any cleanup. It all comes together in one baking dish using uncooked pasta and minimal prep so you get a cheesy tomato-basil dinner that tastes fresh and satisfying. With tender bites of chicken and creamy melted mozzarella in every scoop it is truly a weeknight winner.

I began making this on busy school nights and soon found it is my top request for potlucks and casual dinners My kids especially love the gooey mozzarella and ask for it every time I buy fresh basil

Ingredients

• Uncooked penne pasta: gives structure and absorbs all the saucy goodness Look for high quality bronze-cut pasta for texture
• Diced chicken: adds lean protein Thigh or breast both work but I prefer thigh for extra juiciness Just dice into small bite-size pieces so it cooks evenly
• Marinara sauce: delivers tangy tomato flavor Use your favorite jarred brand or make your own for a brighter finish
• Cherry tomatoes: burst when baked adding pops of juicy sweetness Choose firm ripe tomatoes for best results
• Mozzarella balls: create creamy bites of cheese as they melt I like the mini sized bocconcini or ciliegine for easy layering Be sure they are packed in water for freshness
• Fresh basil leaves: bring classic Caprese flavor Look for leaves that are vibrant and not wilted Gently tear or chiffonade for maximum aroma

Instructions

Mix Everything:

Combine uncooked penne pasta diced chicken and marinara sauce directly in a deep baking dish Use a spoon to make sure pasta is coated and everything is evenly distributed This is the foundation for a perfectly baked pasta

Add Tomatoes and Cover:

Scatter whole cherry tomatoes across the top of the mix Cover the dish tightly with foil to trap steam This cooks the pasta without pre-boiling and keeps the chicken moist

Initial Bake:

Place the foil-covered dish into a preheated oven at one hundred eighty degrees Celsius Set a timer for twenty five minutes While it bakes the pasta will absorb sauce and the chicken will become tender

Add Mozzarella and Finish Baking:

Remove the foil gently scatter mozzarella balls over the top Bake uncovered until cheese is completely melted and starts to brown in spots The top should look bubbly and irresistible

Garnish and Serve:

Once out of the oven let it rest a minute Tear or thinly slice fresh basil and sprinkle it over the finished dish Serve hot for melty cheesy perfection

Fresh basil is my absolute favorite herb I can never resist the aroma when tearing a bunch for garnish The first time I made this I let my little one help sprinkle the basil and now it has become our dinnertime ritual

Storage Tips

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge They stay good for up to three days To reheat add a splash of water and cover loosely with foil then bake until warmed through The cheese stays stretchy and the pasta remains saucy

Ingredient Substitutions

Try rotisserie chicken if you want to skip dicing raw chicken For a vegetarian option use drained white beans or diced zucchini instead of chicken Gluten-free pasta works well too just check the baking time and adjust if needed

Serving Suggestions

For a Caprese twist drizzle balsamic glaze over each serving Add extra basil on top for peak flavor It is wonderful alongside a crisp green salad or roasted asparagus for a balanced meal

Cultural and Historical Context

Caprese salads are a staple in Italian cuisine using tomatoes mozzarella fresh basil and olive oil This dish takes all those flavors and transforms them into a homestyle baked pasta perfect for modern kitchens but inspired by the taste of southern Italy

Seasonal Adaptations

In summer use heirloom cherry tomatoes for more color and taste Try adding grilled vegetables for a heartier dish Swap the marinara for a lighter tomato basil sauce in warm months

Success Stories

The ease of this dish means it often finds its way to my friend’s potluck tables One shared that her picky teenager finally cleaned his plate and even took seconds It is ideal for busy families and those who usually shy away from scratch cooking

Freezer Meal Conversion

Assemble everything except for the mozzarella and basil Then wrap well and freeze Thaw overnight in the fridge Bake as directed adding five to ten minutes to the initial covered bake time Add cheese and basil as usual for a freezer-friendly version

With its easy prep and comforting flavors this is a weeknight dinner you will want to make on repeat. Enjoy the aroma of hot bubbly cheese and fresh basil at your table.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes, rigatoni or ziti also work well. Adjust baking time if using larger shapes.

→ Do I need to cook the chicken before baking?

No, the diced chicken cooks fully in the oven along with the pasta and sauce.

→ Can this be made ahead and reheated?

Absolutely. Store covered in the fridge and reheat in the oven or microwave until hot.

→ What can I use instead of mozzarella balls?

Sliced fresh mozzarella or shredded cheese melts well as a substitute.

→ How can I make this more flavorful?

Add Italian seasoning, garlic, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving for extra depth.