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- 8 ounces penne pasta - 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced - 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped - 1 cup ricotta cheese - 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning - Salt and pepper, to taste - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1/4 cup chicken broth (optional)

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Bake

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Bake recipe! Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this dish combines tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and a rich creamy sauce all baked to golden perfection. With easy preparation steps and nutritious ingredients like ricotta and fresh spinach, it's not just delicious but also healthy. Learn how to make this mouthwatering pasta bake and impress your loved ones with a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz (225 g) penne pasta

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced

3 cups fresh spinach, chopped

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup cream cheese, softened at room temperature

1 cup grated mozzarella cheese

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup chicken broth

1 tsp Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

¼ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for a crunchy topping)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish or casserole dish with olive oil or non-stick cooking spray to ensure easy removal later.

    Cook the Pasta: Fill a large pot with water, add a generous amount of salt, and bring it to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions, typically about 10-12 minutes, until the pasta is al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set aside to cool slightly.

      Prepare the Creamy Sauce: In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese and softened cream cheese until smooth. Gently stir in the chicken broth, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, blending until all ingredients are fully incorporated and you achieve a creamy consistency.

        Combine the Ingredients: To the bowl with the creamy sauce, add the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and chopped spinach. Carefully fold and mix all the ingredients together until the pasta and chicken are thoroughly coated with the creamy sauce.

          Assemble the Pasta Bake: Transfer the pasta mixture into your prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to evenly distribute the mixture, pressing it gently to ensure an even layer.

            Top with Cheeses: Generously sprinkle the grated mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the top of the pasta mixture. If you like added crunch, optionally sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the cheese layer.

              Bake to Perfection: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You'll know it's ready when the cheese is melted, bubbling, and the top is beautifully golden brown.

                Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes. Before serving, garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 45 minutes | Serves 6

                    Enjoy your delicious and creamy chicken and spinach pasta bake that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings!