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I personally use and love these products in my kitchen. I only recommend what I trust!
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Remember that time when I tried to impress my in-laws with a fancy dinner? It was a complete disaster, except for one thing: a simplified version of this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta. It became a family favorite despite my initial kitchen chaos. Now, I'm sharing this reliable, comforting recipe with you, hoping it brings as much joy (and less stress!) to your table as it does to mine. Ever just crave something warm, comforting, and utterly delicious? This pasta bake is your answer. It's like a warm hug on a plate.
This dish combines the vibrant flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and spinach with tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta, all bathed in a rich, creamy sauce. Imagine the aroma filling your kitchen – that's the promise of a truly satisfying meal. It’s so easy to throw together; it’s honestly a winner. I always feel like my home is complete when I serve this; just the ambiance that comes with it is the perfect touch to my evenings. Trust me, your family and friends will rave about it!
Required Equipments
- Large pot
- Colander
- Large skillet
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Mixing spoon
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta Bake: Frequently Asked Questions
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta Bake
Indulge in the rich flavors of Italy with this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta Bake. Perfectly cooked pasta, juicy chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach, all enveloped in a luscious creamy sauce, baked to golden perfection.
⏳ Yield & Time
Yield: 6 servings
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time:
🍽 Ingredients
📖 Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. This prevents sticking and ensures even baking.
- Cook the pasta: Cook 1 pound of your favorite pasta (such as penne or rotini) according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside. Al dente pasta holds its shape better in the bake.
- Season and cook the chicken: Cut 1.5 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Make sure the chicken isn't pink inside.
- Prepare the sauce: Reduce the heat to medium. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant. Stir in 1/2 cup of sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed, drained), 5 ounces of fresh spinach, and cook until the spinach is wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Wilted spinach is easier to incorporate into the sauce.
- Add cream and cheese: Pour in 1.5 cups of heavy cream and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Bring to a simmer, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce has slightly thickened, about 3-5 minutes. Simmering ensures the cheese melts smoothly and the sauce thickens up nicely.
- Combine ingredients: Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss everything together until well coated. Make sure every piece of pasta is lovingly embraced by the sauce!
- Transfer to baking dish: Pour the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. An even layer helps it cook uniformly.
- Top with cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese and 1/4 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top. That golden, bubbly cheese topping is what makes it irresistible!
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning. If its browning too quickly, tent with foil.
- Cool and serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil, if desired. A little bit of fresh basil adds a lovely pop of color and flavor.
- Enjoy! I forgot the parsley again!
📝 Notes
- For a richer flavor, use full-fat cream cheese instead of heavy cream.
- Add mushrooms or other vegetables for extra nutrients and flavor.
- If you don't have sun-dried tomatoes, you can use fresh cherry tomatoes.
- For gluten-free, substitute gluten-free pasta.
🍎 Nutrition
Calories: 550 kcal
Protein: 40 g
Fat: 25 g
Carbohydrates: 45 g
Fiber: 5 g
Calcium: 200 mg
