Chicken Pasta Bake

Healthy Dinner Under 60 Minutes

Chicken Pasta Bake

Ingredients: Makes 8 servings

• 1 lb whole wheat elbow pasta, prepare according to directions

• 1 lb boneless/skinless chicken breasts, cooked and cubed

• 1 medium sweet onion, chopped

• 2 garlic cloves, chopped

• 1 green bell pepper, chopped

• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

• 2 tbsp parsley

• 2 tsp oregano

• 2 tsp thyme

• 2 tsp sweet basil

• 1 jar of Betolli Tomato & Basil tomato sauce

• 2 cups reduced fat Colby cheese

• 1 tsp cayenne pepper

• sea salt and pepper

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.

2. Spray baking dish with cooking spray. Set aside.

3. Cook pasta according to directions. Strain and set aside.

4. In large skillet over medium heat, season and cook chicken breasts. Remove from skillet. Set aside. Allow chicken breasts to "rest," allowing juices to settle before cutting into cubes.

5. In same large skillet, add remaining olive oil, onions, garlic, bell pepper, oregano, thyme, and basil. Saute for 5 minutes.

6. Add jar tomato sauce or homemade sauce, cayenne and black pepper. Salt to taste. Stir well and cook for about 5 minutes.

7. Add cubed chicken. Cover and simmer sauce for 30 minutes.

8. Add drained elbow pasta and mix well.

9. Pour half mixture into baking dish and top with 1/2 cup of cheese. Repeat process and top with remaining cheese.

10. Bake chicken pasta bake for 20-30 minutes or until heated through and cheese has melted.

11. Sprinkle top with fresh parsley.

Nutrition Facts:

Calories: 418 | Fat: 12g | Fiber: 7g | Carbs: 49g | Protein: 25g | Sugar: 10g | Sodium: 497mg