If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that brings the flavors of Italy straight to your kitchen, look no further than this Cheesy Italian Chicken Bake. Combining tender chicken, savory Italian sausage, vibrant bell peppers, and a rich tomato sauce, all topped with gooey melted mozzarella, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for family dinners or potluck gatherings.Recipecs+1Reffors+1
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This Italian bake is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. The combination of proteins and vegetables ensures a balanced dish, while the layers of flavor from the sauce and cheese make every bite irresistible. It’s also incredibly versatile—feel free to customize it with your favorite pasta shapes or additional veggies.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. pasta (any type, cooked until al dente)
- 2 jars spaghetti sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 red bell peppers, cut into chunks
- 1½ lbs. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into pieces
- 1 lb. Italian sausages, cut into pieces
- 2 tbsp. olive oil
- ½ tsp. Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to tasteSpicy Southern Kitchen+4Reffors+4recipesaz.com+4Reluctant Entertainer+3Recipecs+3Reffors+3
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to preheat while you prepare the ingredients.
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Meats: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside. In the same skillet, cook the sausage pieces until browned. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and bell peppers. Sauté until they are tender and slightly caramelized.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sautéed meats, vegetables, spaghetti sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well coated with the sauce.
- Assemble the Bake: Transfer the mixture into a large baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with a golden-brown crust.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Tips for Success
- Pasta Choice: While any pasta will work, penne, rigatoni, or fusilli are excellent choices as they hold the sauce well.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to mix in other cheeses like provolone or parmesan for added depth of flavor.
- Make Ahead: This dish can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
- Freezing: The baked dish freezes well. Cool completely, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this Italian bake with a crisp green salad and some crusty garlic bread for a complete meal. A glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot, complements the rich flavors beautifully.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 550
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 25g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 8gReddit+6Spicy Southern Kitchen+6Reffors+6
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Italian Chicken Bake is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Its hearty ingredients and rich taste make it perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to special gatherings. Give it a try, and enjoy a little taste of Italy right at home!