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When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can match the warm, inviting allure of a creamy pasta bake. This dish, laden with tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and a rich, gooey cheese topping, brings a sense of satisfaction that few meals can provide. The Creamy Spinach & Chicken Pasta Bake is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that promises to please both the palate and the soul, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings or casual weeknight dinners.

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Bake

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Creamy Spinach & Chicken Pasta Bake! Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this dish features tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and a rich, gooey cheese topping that will satisfy your cravings. The recipe is simple and quick, utilizing wholesome ingredients that create a deliciously creamy and nutritious meal. Discover how to make this scrumptious pasta bake that everyone will love!
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Ingredients
  

12 ounces penne pasta

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)

4 cups fresh spinach (or 2 cups frozen spinach, thawed and well-drained)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

2 cups heavy cream

1 cup chicken broth

1 1/2 cups grated mozzarella cheese, divided

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh basil or parsley leaves, for garnish

Instructions
 

Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    Cook Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

      Sauté Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken to the skillet and season it with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if you enjoy a bit of heat. Cook the chicken, stirring occasionally, until it is browned and completely cooked through, approximately 6-8 minutes. Add the minced garlic and continue to cook for another minute, or until the garlic becomes fragrant.

        Add Spinach and Tomatoes: To the skillet, stir in the fresh spinach and halved cherry tomatoes. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until the spinach has wilted. Once done, remove the skillet from the heat.

          Make the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and chicken broth until well combined. Stir in half of the grated mozzarella cheese along with the entire amount of grated Parmesan cheese. Season this mixture with salt and pepper to taste.

            Combine Ingredients: In a large baking dish, combine the cooked penne pasta, chicken and spinach mixture, and the cream sauce. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly coated in the sauce.

              Top with Cheese: Evenly sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top of the combined pasta mixture.

                Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

                  Serve and Garnish: Once the pasta bake is done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Before serving, garnish with fresh basil or parsley leaves for a pop of color and flavor.

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

                      Enjoy this rich and creamy pasta bake as a comforting dinner option that combines savory chicken, nutrient-rich spinach, and deliciously melted cheese.