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When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can match the warmth and satisfaction of a creamy pasta bake. The Creamy Spinach and Chicken Pasta Bake is a perfect example of this culinary genre, effortlessly combining rich flavors and heartwarming textures. This dish not only serves as a delightful family meal but also shines at gatherings, offering a blend of taste and nutrition that appeals to both kids and adults alike. The marriage of tender chicken, nutrient-rich spinach, and a luscious creamy sauce makes this pasta bake not just a dish but a comforting embrace from the kitchen.

Creamy Spinach and Chicken Pasta Bake

Indulge in the comforting delight of Creamy Spinach and Chicken Pasta Bake, a dish that combines tender chicken, nutritious spinach, and a luscious creamy sauce enveloping penne pasta. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe promises a warm embrace with each bite. Its blend of flavors and textures not only nourishes but also pleases the palate. Discover the joy of making this hearty meal that everyone will love, all while embracing the comfort of homemade cooking.
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Ingredients
  

300g (10.5 oz) penne pasta

300g (10.5 oz) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced

200g (7 oz) fresh spinach, chopped (or 150g frozen spinach, thawed)

1 cup (240ml) heavy cream

1 cup (240ml) chicken broth

1 cup (100g) grated mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 garlic cloves, minced

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

    Sauté Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

      Prepare Spinach Mixture: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent. If using fresh spinach, add it to the skillet and cook until wilted (about 2-3 minutes). If using frozen spinach, add it directly and heat through.

        Make the Sauce: Into the spinach mixture, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then add the cooked chicken back into the skillet. Stir in half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Season to taste with additional salt and pepper if needed.

          Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta to the creamy chicken and spinach mixture, stirring well to coat all the pasta evenly with the sauce.

            Bake: Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased baking dish (about 9x13 inches). Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

              Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

                  15 minutes | 50 minutes | 6 servings