Description
Delectable tuscan chicken pasta bake merges Mediterranean flavors with creamy comfort. Rich layers of herb-infused chicken, tender pasta, and melted cheese create a satisfying meal you will crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 12 ounces (340 grams) pasta (penne or rigatoni)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 2 cups fresh spinach
Dairy and Cream:
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Seasonings and Additional Ingredients:
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Warm the oven to 375F (190C) and lightly coat a baking dish with cooking spray.
- Prepare pasta according to package directions, then drain thoroughly and set aside.
- Sauté minced garlic in olive oil over medium heat until aromatic and lightly golden.
- Pour chicken broth and heavy cream into the skillet, whisking to create a smooth sauce.
- Incorporate Parmesan cheese, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 3-4 minutes, developing rich flavors.
- Fold in cooked pasta, diced chicken, and fresh spinach, ensuring every ingredient is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
- Carefully transfer the entire mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese generously across the top, creating a melty golden surface.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese turns golden brown and the edges become slightly crispy.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set and flavors to meld.
Notes
- Customize pasta type to suit dietary needs, like whole wheat or gluten-free options for health-conscious eaters.
- Pat chicken dry before cooking to achieve perfect golden-brown exterior and prevent soggy texture.
- Drain sun-dried tomatoes thoroughly to prevent excess liquid from making the dish watery.
- Experiment with protein alternatives like shredded rotisserie chicken or plant-based chicken for quick meal prep variations.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 580 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0.2 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg