Description
Savory Tuscan chicken pasta bake delivers a mouthwatering Italian-inspired comfort meal that blends creamy textures with rich, herb-infused flavors. Cheese-topped and loaded with tender chicken, this delightful dish promises to satisfy you with its delectable Mediterranean charm.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 12 ounces (340 grams) pasta (penne or rigatoni)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
Dairy and Cream:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 12 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Additional Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Warm the oven to 375F (190C) for optimal cooking temperature.
- Prepare pasta according to package directions, ensuring al dente texture. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
- In a skillet, warm olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until aromatic and lightly golden.
- Introduce fresh spinach to the skillet, cooking until completely wilted and tender.
- Fold in sun-dried tomatoes, creating a vibrant and flavorful base.
- Pour heavy cream into the skillet, seasoning with Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Allow mixture to simmer gently for 2 minutes, developing rich flavors.
- Combine cooked pasta and chicken with the creamy sauce, tossing carefully to ensure even coating.
- Transfer the mixture to a prepared baking dish, spreading evenly for consistent cooking.
- Generously sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese across the top, creating a luxurious cheese layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, watching for golden, bubbling cheese and heated through consistency.
- Remove from oven and let rest briefly before serving to allow flavors to settle.
Notes
- Swap chicken for tofu or tempeh to create a delicious vegetarian version that maintains the creamy, flavorful profile of the original dish.
- Reduce heavy cream calories by using half-and-half or Greek yogurt for a lighter, protein-packed alternative without sacrificing richness.
- Make it gluten-free by selecting pasta made from chickpea, quinoa, or rice to accommodate dietary restrictions while keeping the overall texture similar.
- Prep ingredients ahead of time and store in airtight containers for a quick weeknight meal that saves time and reduces kitchen stress.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 590 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 420 mg
- Fat: 35 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
- Trans Fat: 0.2 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg