Description
Creamy Tuscan chicken pasta bake brings Mediterranean comfort straight to dinner tables with its rich blend of herbs, tender chicken, and melted cheese. Hearty ingredients combine effortlessly, promising a satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 12 ounces (340 grams) penne pasta
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
Cheese:
- 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings and Additional Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Warm the oven to 375°F, preparing a welcoming environment for the pasta bake.
- Prepare the pasta according to package guidelines, ensuring a perfect al dente texture, then drain and reserve.
- Infuse olive oil with minced garlic in a skillet, releasing aromatic flavors over medium heat.
- Create a luxurious sauce by introducing heavy cream, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, allowing it to simmer and develop depth for 3-4 minutes.
- Incorporate mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses into the sauce, stirring until they melt into a velvety, smooth consistency.
- Combine the cooked pasta with tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes, gently coating everything in the rich, creamy sauce.
- Transfer the harmonious mixture to a greased baking dish, generously scattering additional mozzarella across the top for a golden, crispy finish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the surface turns golden and the edges bubble with excitement.
- Allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld and settle before serving this comforting Tuscan-inspired creation.
Notes
- Boost protein by adding grilled shrimp or tofu for a versatile protein swap that keeps the dish exciting and adaptable.
- Create a lighter version using Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream, reducing calories while maintaining creamy texture and tangy flavor.
- Gluten-free option works perfectly by substituting regular penne with gluten-free pasta, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delicious comfort meal without compromise.
- Prep ingredients ahead of time to make weeknight cooking a breeze, chopping chicken and vegetables in advance for quick assembly and minimal kitchen stress.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 680 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 42 g
- Saturated Fat: 22 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 140 mg