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creamy chicken spinach pasta bake

Creamy Chicken Spinach Pasta Bake

This creamy chicken spinach pasta bake is an easy, comforting dinner made with tender chicken, spinach, grape tomatoes, and a rich, cheesy sauce. It works with fresh or frozen spinach and is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family meals.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

  • 10 ounces penne pasta
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • ½ onion chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 4 ounces cream cheese
  • 1 cup milk
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese grated
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheesed divided
  • 2 cups cooked chicken cupped or shredded
  • cups chopped fresh spinach or 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and well drained
  • 1 cup grape tomatoes chopped
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F and lightly grease a 10 inch baking dish.
  2. Cook the pasta in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft.
  4. Stir in the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Add cream cheese, milk, and sour cream. Stir often and cook gently until sauce is smooth.
  6. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  7. Add the chicken, spinach, cooked pasta, chopped tomatoes, and 1 cup mozzarella cheese.
  8. Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish. Top with remaining mozzarella cheese.
  9. Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, until bubbly and lightly golden.
  10. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Do not overcook the pasta since it will finish cooking in the oven.
  • If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of pasta water or milk.
  • Fresh spinach will look like a lot at first, but wilts quickly.
  • Grape tomatoes hold their shape better than larger tomatoes and add just the right amount of balance.