Chicken & Spinach Pasta Bake – Creamy & Cheesy

Looking for a cozy, comforting dinner that’s quick and easy to prepare? This Chicken & Spinach Pasta Bake is the answer. Packed with tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, this dish is perfect for family meals or dinner parties. The best part? It’s baked to golden perfection, creating a rich, melty topping that’s simply irresistible.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced

• 1 pound pasta (penne or rigatoni works best)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 4 cups fresh spinach

• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream

• 1 cup chicken broth

• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by boiling the pasta according to package instructions, but cook it for about 1-2 minutes less than the recommended time to ensure it doesn’t get too soft when baked. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Spinach

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes to thicken slightly. Stir in the Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and half of the mozzarella cheese. Once the cheese has melted, taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, sautéed spinach, and creamy sauce. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated.

Step 5: Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once the pasta bake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, and serve warm.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Creamy and Cheesy: The heavy cream and mozzarella cheese create a rich, creamy sauce that perfectly coats the pasta.

• Healthy Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a burst of color and nutrients, balancing out the richness of the cheese.

• Comforting and Filling: This pasta bake is hearty enough to satisfy even the biggest appetites, making it perfect for a cozy family meal.

• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights or dinner parties.

Tips and Variations:

• Add Veggies: For an extra boost of nutrients, feel free to add other veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.

• Use Rotisserie Chicken: To save time, you can use store-bought rotisserie chicken for an even quicker preparation.

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

• Extra Cheese: If you’re a cheese lover, try adding extra Parmesan or a sprinkle of cheddar on top before baking for an even cheesier finish.

Conclusion:

This Chicken & Spinach Pasta Bake is the perfect dish for any occasion—rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. It’s simple to make, yet so satisfying, and is sure to become a go-to recipe in your dinner rotation. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special family gathering, this pasta bake will be a hit!