When I know that I’m not going to have a lot of time for prep in the afternoon, this is the solution to all my problems. There really isn’t much of a prep time at all! I just throw everything together nicely in the baking dish and pop it in the oven…about 40 minutes later dinner is served. I have even put this together ahead of time and stuck it in the fridge. Then, when we are ready to eat, I just put it in the oven and we are ready to go! Check out what they are saying about this recipe over at The Seasoned Mom:
“This lightened-up casserole is the perfect example of a simple and healthy supper that brings the family together — even on busy evenings, and keeps you out of the kitchen with very little prep work.”
Even though this recipe was created as a light meal…you can make it as flavorful as you would like using regular pasta and cheese.
Ingredients
1 (13.25 ounce) package uncooked whole grain penne pasta
1 (24 ounce) jar Ragu marinara sauce
3 cups water
1 ½ lbs. raw chicken breast tenders (or thinly sliced chicken breast)
1 ½ cups Kraft reduced-fat shredded mozzarella (or Italian blend) cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup whole wheat Panko breadcrumbs or whole wheat Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
Optional: fresh chopped herbs (such as basil, oregano, and parsley) for garnish
Instructions
Preheat oven to 425 degrees F.
Spray a 13-inch by 9-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Add pasta, marinara sauce, and water to the dish and stir to combine. Place chicken in a single layer on top. Cover tightly with aluminum foil.
You want to make sure that your dish is covered tightly so that none of the moisture escapes (the pasta needs to absorb the liquid as it cooks). Bake the covered dish for 30 minutes.
Uncover; stir.
Spread mozzarella over the top and sprinkle with breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. Bake uncovered for 5-10 more minutes (or until cheese is melted, top is golden brown, pasta is tender, and chicken is cooked through).
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Quick Tip: Use more or less cheese to suit your personal taste.
Thanks again to Group Recipes for this quick and delicious recipe.