Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Bake

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Bake! This deliciously creamy casserole features tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and al dente penne pasta all enveloped in a rich sauce. Easy to prepare, it's perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Enjoy a wholesome meal packed with flavor, nutrients, and a cheesy, bubbly topping that will impress everyone at the table. Try it today for a satisfying dish that brings everyone together!

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Ingredients

12 oz (340g) penne pasta

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 pound (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 medium onion, finely chopped

1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme)

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped

1 cup (240ml) heavy cream

1 cup (240ml) low-sodium chicken broth

1 cup (100g) grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for topping

1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it is ready for baking once you assemble the dish.

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside, keeping it prepared near your stove.

Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the diced chicken pieces to the skillet, cooking them for about 5-7 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through.

Add Aromatics: To the skillet with the chicken, stir in the minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.

Season the Mixture: Add the dried Italian herbs and red pepper flakes (if using) into the skillet. Then, fold in the chopped spinach and cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the spinach to wilt down and blend with the chicken.

Prepare the Sauce: Carefully pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring the mixture to combine well. Allow the sauce to come to a gentle simmer. Once warmed, mix in the grated Parmesan cheese, continuing to stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce becomes creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.

Combine Pasta and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta with the creamy chicken and spinach mixture. Toss gently until the pasta is evenly coated with the flavorful sauce.

Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the combined pasta mixture into a greased 3-quart baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Top with the shredded mozzarella cheese and a generous sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan for a deliciously cheesy crust.

Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly, signaling that it is perfectly baked.

Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness before serving. Dive in and enjoy your decadent Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Bake!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 50 minutes | Serves 6