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Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta Bake

A comforting pasta bake featuring creamy textures, zesty flavors, and high protein, perfect for a fulfilling dinner or meal prep.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta
  • 8 oz high-protein pasta (chickpea, lentil, or Banza penne/rotini)
Chicken
  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
Sauce
  • 1.5 cups full-fat (4%) cottage cheese, blended completely smooth
  • 1 cup thick marinara or tomato basil sauce
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
Cheese and Garnish
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided Half for mixing and half for topping
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×9 inch baking dish.
  2. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente, then drain well.
  3. In a blender or food processor, pulse the cottage cheese until completely smooth and creamy.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the blended cottage cheese, marinara sauce, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and half of the mozzarella cheese.
  5. Add the cooked pasta and shredded chicken to the sauce mixture and toss until well coated.
  6. Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Cooking
  1. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
  2. Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh chopped basil, and serve immediately.

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place a portion in the microwave until hot or bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
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