07/11/2026
❤️Tuscan "Marry Me" Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe!
Creamy, cheesy, and packed with juicy chicken and savory sun-dried tomatoes, this Tuscan "Marry Me" Chicken Pasta Bake is the kind of comfort food everyone falls in love with. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions!
Ingredients:
16 oz penne pasta
3 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
4 tbsp butter
3 tbsp oil (reserved from the jar of sun-dried tomatoes)
½ cup onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
2 cups heavy whipping cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
1 tsp salt, or to taste
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Directions:
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Drizzle the chicken thighs with a little oil and season both sides with salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter with the reserved sun-dried tomato oil.
Add the chicken and cook for about 6–7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked. Transfer to a plate, let rest for a few minutes, then shred into bite-sized pieces.
Reduce the heat to medium. Add the diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
Stir in the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy whipping cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
Stir in the Parmesan cheese and cook for 5–8 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.
Add the shredded chicken and cooked penne to the skillet. Toss until everything is evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top.
Bake uncovered for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Chef's Tip:
Reserve a little pasta water before draining. If the sauce becomes too thick before baking, stir in a splash of the pasta water for an extra silky texture.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 35 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Servings: 6