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- 2 cups whole grain pasta (penne or fusilli) - 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced - 2 cups fresh spinach (or 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained) - 1 medium onion, chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 tablespoon olive oil - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Bake

Indulge in the cozy comfort of Creamy Chicken & Spinach Pasta Bake, a deliciously rich dish that combines tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and a creamy sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, this recipe offers a satisfying blend of flavors and nutritious ingredients. Each bite is a delightful mix of cheesy goodness and wholesome nutrition. Elevate your mealtime with this easy-to-make and utterly comforting pasta bake that the whole family will love.
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Ingredients
  

12 oz (340g) pasta (penne or rotini works great)

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced

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

1 small onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 cups heavy cream

1 cup chicken broth

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and pepper, to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

    Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta for 2-3 minutes less than package directions. Drain and set aside.

      Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

        Add Spinach: Toss in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted (about 2-3 minutes). If using frozen spinach, add it and cook until heated through.

          Make the Cream Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Add ½ cup of the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.

            Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and spinach cream sauce. Mix well until everything is coated.

              Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with the remaining ½ cup Parmesan cheese and the shredded mozzarella.

                Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

                  Garnish & Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your creamy, hearty pasta bake!

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 45 min | 6 servings