LIGHTER MEDITERRANEAN PASTA BAKE

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Lighter Mediterranean Pasta Bake image

Next time you're craving a comforting casserole loaded with chicken, veggies and just enough cheese to make it feel decadent, we recommend giving this recipe a try. It's a lightened-up take on a favorite recipe, our Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Bake. Like the original, this lighter version features perfectly browned chicken, bowtie pasta and the sun-ripened flavors of tomatoes, olives and artichokes featured in the original-but we also added in a few more veggies and trimmed down the cheese. The result is a dish that's full-flavored and comforting. When it comes out of the oven all warm and melty, no one will guess this dinner comes in under 400 calories per serving!

Provided by By Betty Crocker Kitchens

Categories     Entree

Time 1h30m

Yield 8

Number Of Ingredients 13

8 oz uncooked bowtie pasta (about 3 cups)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup chopped onions
1 small zucchini, cut in half lengthwise and into 1/4-inch slices (about 1 1/2 cups)
2 jars (6 oz each) Progresso™ imported marinated artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
2 cups Muir Glen™ organic tomato basil pasta sauce (from 25.5-oz jar)
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
1/4 cup sliced kalamata olives
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Steps:

  • Heat oven to 350°F. Spray 13x9-inch (3-quart) glass baking dish with cooking spray. Cook and drain pasta as directed on package. Add to large bowl.
  • In 12-inch nonstick skillet, heat 1 teaspoon oil over medium-high heat. Toss chicken with Italian seasoning and salt; cook 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until juice of chicken is clear when center of thickest part is cut (at least 165°F). Transfer to bowl with pasta.
  • In same skillet, heat remaining 2 teaspoons oil over medium heat; add onions and zucchini. Cook 4 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are crisp-tender. Stir in artichokes, pasta sauce and whipping cream; heat 3 to 4 minutes or until heated through.
  • Carefully add sauce to bowl of pasta and chicken; stir until well combined. Spoon mixture into baking dish; top with tomatoes, olives and Parmesan cheese. Cover baking dish with foil; bake 25 minutes. Uncover; bake 10 to 15 minutes or until bubbly and lightly browned.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 390, Carbohydrate 34 g, Cholesterol 55 mg, Fat 3 1/2, Fiber 6 g, Protein 22 g, SaturatedFat 7 g, ServingSize About 1 1/3 Cups, Sodium 680 mg, Sugar 5 g, TransFat 0 g

Hasnain Baloch
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I would not recommend this pasta bake. It was a waste of time and ingredients.


MARISSA SALONISTA MIX
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I was disappointed with this pasta bake. It didn't have much flavor.


Justina Tuyeni
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This pasta bake was a bit too salty for my taste. I would use less salt next time.


Elleni Eixab
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I found this pasta bake to be a bit dry. I would add more sauce next time.


Namata Sophia
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This pasta bake was a bit too bland for my taste. I would add more spices next time.


bassey agabi
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I love that this pasta bake is made with whole wheat pasta. It makes it a healthier option.


Cameron Holcomb
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This pasta bake is so flavorful and satisfying. It's the perfect comfort food for a cold night.


Jam Danish Ijaz
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I've made this pasta bake several times, and it's always a hit. It's a great recipe to have on hand for busy weeknights.


Oluoma Ugorji
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This pasta bake is a great way to sneak in some extra vegetables for picky eaters. My kids loved it!


Nhlakanipho Nelson Nkosi
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I made this pasta bake for a potluck, and it was a huge success. Everyone loved it!


Manuel Vargas
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This Mediterranean pasta bake is a great way to use up leftover vegetables. It's also a healthy and delicious meal.


Carlos Museau
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I was surprised at how easy this dish was to make. It turned out great, and my family loved it. This is a keeper!


Tehmoor sheikh
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This pasta bake was delicious! The combination of flavors was perfect. I will definitely be making this again.


Columbus Police
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I love how versatile this recipe is. I added some extra vegetables, and it turned out great. This is a great weeknight meal.


Meika Cole
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This Mediterranean pasta bake was a hit with my family! The flavors were incredible, and the dish was so easy to make. I'll definitely be making this again soon.