Description
Hearty “Tuscan Chicken Pasta Bake” delivers Italian countryside comfort with creamy sauce and tender chicken. Rich layers of herbs, cheese, and perfectly seasoned ingredients promise a delightful meal you’ll savor down to the last delicious bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Proteins:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Pasta and Vegetables:
- 12 ounces (340 grams) penne pasta
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Liquids:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Elevate the oven temperature to 375°F, creating the perfect cooking environment for this creamy Tuscan-inspired pasta bake.
- Prepare the penne by boiling in generously salted water until it reaches a tender al dente consistency, then carefully drain and reserve.
- Infuse a large skillet with olive oil, gently sautéing minced garlic until its aromatic essence fills the kitchen.
- Pour in velvety heavy cream, introducing a blend of Italian seasoning, complemented by a delicate balance of salt and pepper, allowing the mixture to simmer softly.
- Gradually incorporate mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, stirring continuously until they melt into a luxurious, smooth sauce.
- Fold in the perfectly cooked pasta, transforming it with tender shredded chicken, vibrant sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach leaves, ensuring every ingredient is lovingly coated.
- Transition the magnificent mixture into a thoroughly greased 9×13-inch baking vessel, crowning the top with an additional generous sprinkle of mozzarella cheese.
- Position in the preheated oven, allowing the dish to bake for 20-25 minutes until the surface turns a gorgeous golden brown and begins to bubble enticingly.
- Grant the pasta bake a brief moment of rest, letting the flavors settle for 5 minutes before presenting this sumptuous culinary creation.
Notes
- Customize protein by swapping chicken with turkey, tofu, or plant-based alternatives for dietary preferences.
- Control creaminess by adjusting heavy cream quantity, using half-and-half or milk for lighter versions.
- Maximize flavor intensity by roasting garlic beforehand or adding red pepper flakes for subtle heat.
- Reduce sodium content by using low-sodium cheese and limiting added salt during cooking process.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 680
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 40 g
- Saturated Fat: 20 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 56 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 36 g
- Cholesterol: 150 mg