Budget Chicken Cheese Pasta Bake (Print)

Tender chicken and pasta blend with tomato sauce and cheese for a flavorful, easy family meal.

# Components:

→ Pasta & Protein

01 - 10.5 ounces ziti pasta
02 - 2 cups diced cooked chicken

→ Sauce & Cheese

03 - 2 cups tomato sauce
04 - 1 cup cottage cheese
05 - 1 large egg
06 - 1 cup shredded mozzarella

# Directions:

01 - Cook ziti pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water until just al dente. Drain thoroughly.
02 - In a mixing bowl, combine diced cooked chicken, tomato sauce, cottage cheese, and egg until blended.
03 - Gently mix the cooked pasta with the cheese and chicken mixture, ensuring even coating. Transfer to a lightly greased baking dish.
04 - Top with shredded mozzarella and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Uses simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry
  • Feeds the whole family for less than takeout
  • Quick to prepare and on the table in about half an hour
  • Packed with protein from chicken cottage cheese and mozzarella so it is truly satisfying
02 -
  • High in protein from chicken and cottage cheese
  • Budget friendly and customizable to whatever you have on hand
  • Wheat-free versions possible using gluten free pasta
03 -
  • Roast your cooked chicken pieces briefly under the broiler for extra flavor before adding them in
  • Add a smidge of garlic powder or Italian seasoning to the tomato sauce for a flavor boost
  • Line your baking dish with parchment for quick cleanup on busy nights

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