Cheesy Baked Chicken Penne alla Vodka

Cook Pasta & Sear Chicken

Preheat oven to 400°F (or set broiler to high).

Boil in salted water according to package directions and set aside...

• 1 lb penne pasta

Season chicken breasts on both sides...

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Heat in a large 12-inch oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat...

• 1 tbsp olive oil

Sear chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F. Transfer to a cutting board, let rest 5 minutes, then slice into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.

Combine & Top with Cheese

Wipe out any excess grease from the skillet if needed. Add to the skillet over low heat...

• 3 cups (or 1 jar/batch) prepared vodka sauce

Fold the cooked penne directly into the sauce until thoroughly coated, then arrange the sliced seared chicken evenly over the top.

Sprinkle evenly over the chicken and pasta...

• 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Bake & Finish

Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake at 400°F for 8–10 minutes (or broil for 2–3 minutes) until the mozzarella is completely melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.

Garnish with...

• 2 tbsp fresh basil or parsley, chopped

Serve hot, and enjoy!