Description
A delightful fusion of classic Italian-American comfort food featuring crispy chicken, gooey cheese, and rich marinara sauce, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- Kosher Salt
- 12 oz. Store-Bought Cooked Frozen Breaded Chicken Cutlets
- 1 lb. Cavatappi or Other Short Pasta
- 1 Tbsp. Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 1 Small Yellow Onion, Finely Chopped
- 2 Garlic Cloves, Finely Chopped
- 4 Cups Store-Bought or Homemade Marinara Sauce
- 2 oz. Parmesan, Finely Grated (About 1 Cup), Divided, Plus More for Serving
- 3/4 Cup Shredded Mozzarella
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper
- Torn Fresh Basil, for Serving
Instructions
- Prepare the frozen chicken according to package instructions. Let the cutlets cool, then cut them crosswise into strips.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat, warm the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent (about 7 minutes).
- Add the minced garlic and stir until fragrant (about 1 minute). Pour in the marinara sauce, add 1 teaspoon of salt, and bring to a low simmer.
- Add the drained pasta to the sauce and stir to coat each piece.
- Mix in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan until melted and creamy.
- Top the pasta with another 1/2 cup of Parmesan and sprinkle the mozzarella over the top.
- Lay the crispy chicken strips on top of the cheese.
- Bake in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly (about 10 to 12 minutes).
- Before serving, season with freshly ground black pepper and garnish with torn basil leaves and more grated Parmesan.
Notes
For a lighter option, use grilled chicken or eggplant. Pair with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 80g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 80mg