Rosemary and Thyme Chicken Pasta Bake
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A Deliciously Easy Family Dinner
This Rosemary and Thyme Chicken Pasta Bake is my go-to when I’m craving something cozy, comforting, and packed with flavor. It’s the ultimate weeknight dinner—simple to throw together, full of classic Italian flavors, and always a hit with both kids and adults.
I love how the savory, herb-seasoned chicken pairs beautifully with rich marinara and melty mozzarella cheese for a satisfying bite every time. Plus, it’s ridiculously easy to make—just cook, mix, top, and bake!
Want to make the best chicken pasta bake? I’ve got all the tips to help you get that bubbly, cheesy finish and perfectly seasoned pasta. And let’s not forget the fresh herbs—rosemary and thyme take this easy dish to the next level.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients Needed
For a full list of ingredients and their measurements, please view the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post.
Easy Substitutions And Additions
- Vegetarian option: Swap chicken with tofu or a plant-based meat substitute.
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta and double-check that your marinara and seasoning are also gluten-free.
- Cheese swap: Try parmesan, cheddar, or a blend for extra cheesiness.
- Add spice: A sprinkle of red pepper flakes in the marinara gives it a little kick.
- Extra veggies: Add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for a veggie boost.
Step by Step Guide
Be sure to check out the full recipe and ingredient list below
PREP: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 1: Season chicken strips with season salt. In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook chicken until golden and cooked through. Set aside.
Step 2: Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
Step 3: Mix the pasta with the marinara sauce until evenly coated, then pour it into a 9×13 baking dish.
Step 4: Place cooked chicken evenly over the pasta mixture.
Step 5: Mix the rosemary and thyme in a small bowl, then sprinkle the herbs over the chicken and pasta.
Step 6: Top everything with shredded mozzarella cheese.
Step 7: Bake for 35 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly. Let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with more fresh herbs if desired.
Serving Suggestions
This comforting Chicken Pasta Bake is hearty enough to stand on its own, but pairing it with a few simple sides can turn it into a full family feast. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the richness of the cheese and marinara sauce.
Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks are perfect for soaking up any extra sauce and are always a hit with both kids and adults. For a bit of extra color and nutrition, serve it with a side of roasted or steamed vegetables, such as broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers.
And if you’re in the mood for something sweet afterward, this dish pairs wonderfully with a cozy dessert, such as S’mores Brownie Bars or a scoop of homemade Rocky Road Ice Cream.
Tips for Success
- Prep ahead: Assemble the dish up to a day ahead—leave off the cheese until you’re ready to bake.
- Cooking chicken: Don’t overcook the chicken in the skillet since it’ll finish cooking in the oven.
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh rosemary and thyme give this dish an aromatic, vibrant flavor.
- Storing leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze this dish before baking, simply assemble all the ingredients without the cheese, wrap it tightly in foil, and place it in the freezer. When you’re ready to bake, add the cheese on top and proceed as usual.
If you’ve already baked the pasta, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it in foil and place it in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the dish overnight in the fridge and bake until it’s heated through.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried? Yes! Just chop them finely and use about one tablespoon of each for the best flavor.
Can I use a different type of cheese? Definitely. Try a blend of mozzarella and parmesan, or use cheddar for a sharper taste.
Can I make this ahead of time? Yes! Assemble the dish and refrigerate (without cheese) for up to 24 hours. Add cheese and bake when ready. Increase the bake time by 5–10 minutes if starting from a cold state.
And that’s it! This Rosemary and Thyme Chicken Pasta Bake is the no-stress dinner that looks impressive but comes together so easily. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family meal or prepping ahead for busy nights, it’s a total win.
Did you make this? I’d be so grateful if you left a star ★★★★★ rating and a comment below to let me know what you thought! Then, the next time you need a quick and easy recipe, browse all my easy recipes!
Rosemary and Thyme Chicken Pasta Bake
Ingredients
- 1 jar marinara sauce
- 1 bag dried pasta
- 2 large chicken breast
- Season salt
- 2 cups of mozzarella cheese
- 1 stem of rosemary
- 1 stem of thyme
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Cut chicken breast into strips and sprinkle season salt on both sides.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add chicken strips. Cook until they are thoroughly cooked, then set aside.
- While the chicken is cooking, cook pasta according to package directions.
- Drain the pasta and add it to a large bowl. Mix in the marinara sauce and transfer it to a rectangular glass baking dish.
- Mince rosemary and thyme, then mix together.
- Place cooked chicken strips on top of the pasta, covering it completely.
- Sprinkle the minced herbs over the chicken and pasta.
- Top with mozzarella cheese and bake for 35 minutes.
- Once the cheese is golden brown, remove from oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Garnish with additional herbs and serve hot.
Last Step: Please leave a star ★★★★★ rating and a comment below to let me know what you thought!
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, is intended to serve as an estimate only, and is provided for informational purposes. The accuracy of nutritional information is not guaranteed.
This post was originally published on October 10, 2019, and was updated with new content on April 21, 2025.
