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Comfort food has an extraordinary ability to bring warmth and satisfaction to mealtime, and few dishes embody this feeling quite like a creamy pasta bake. The Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Bake is a delightful combination of rich flavors and textures that not only pleases the palate but also nourishes the body. With its tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a velvety sauce, this dish is perfect for cozy family dinners, gatherings, potlucks, or even meal prep for the week ahead. Its versatility and simplicity make it a go-to recipe for busy home cooks looking to create something delicious with minimal effort.

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Bake

Indulge in the warmth of comfort food with this Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Bake! It's a rich combination of tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a luscious sauce, perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Simple to make, this dish features al dente pasta coated in a velvety cream sauce topped with a crunchy breadcrumb layer. Ideal for gatherings or cozy nights at home, this recipe is as satisfying as it is nourishing. Enjoy creating your family's new favorite meal!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups pasta (penne or rotini)

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

5 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup chicken broth

1 cup grated mozzarella cheese

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a kick)

1 cup bread crumbs (for topping)

2 tablespoons butter, melted (for bread crumbs)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

      Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until no longer pink. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.

        Add Spinach: Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until it wilts, approximately 2-3 minutes. Remove the skillet from heat.

          Make the Cream Sauce: In the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, mixing well. Add half of the mozzarella cheese and half of the Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. If you want added heat, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes.

            Combine: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, spinach, and the creamy mixture from the skillet. Toss everything together until well coated.

              Prepare for Baking: Pour the pasta mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.

                Add Toppings: In a small bowl, combine the bread crumbs with melted butter and the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the pasta in the baking dish.

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

                    Serve: Let the pasta bake cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your creamy chicken and spinach pasta bake hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired!

                      Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 6