Description of this recipe: This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta Bake is comfort food elevated! Tender chicken breasts are nestled amongst perfectly cooked pasta, swimming in a luscious, creamy Tuscan sauce packed with sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and garlic. Topped with a generous layer of bubbly, golden cheese, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Why you will love this recipe: Forget boring weeknight dinners! This pasta bake is not only incredibly flavorful but also surprisingly easy to make. It’s a one-pan wonder that requires minimal cleanup, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend meals. The creamy Tuscan sauce is rich and decadent, while the spinach adds a touch of freshness and nutrients. And who can resist a cheesy, bubbly topping? This recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 lb pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped
- 5 oz fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. While the oven is preheating, cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Be careful not to overcook it, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Drain well and set aside.
Step 2: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Stir in the chopped spinach, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook until the spinach is wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Step 5: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the cooked pasta, cooked chicken, and Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together until well combined and the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy Tuscan sauce.
Step 6: Pour the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese and additional Parmesan cheese over the top.
Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown.
Step 8: Let the pasta bake rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and prevents it from being too runny.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley, if desired.
- Pair with a side salad and some crusty bread for a complete meal.
- This dish is also great as leftovers – simply reheat in the microwave or oven.
Tips:
- For a richer flavor, use full-fat heavy cream.
- If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes in oil, you can use dry-packed sun-dried tomatoes. Just rehydrate them in hot water for 10-15 minutes before chopping and adding them to the skillet.
- Feel free to add other vegetables to this dish, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.
- You can substitute the chicken breasts with chicken thighs for a more flavorful and juicy result.
- To make this dish ahead of time, assemble the pasta bake in the baking dish and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Estimates, may vary based on specific ingredients used)
Calories: 650
Protein: 40g
Sodium: 800mg
Conclusion:
This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta Bake is a guaranteed winner. Its blend of comforting flavors, easy preparation, and impressive presentation makes it a perfect dish for any occasion. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and cheesy topping create a symphony of textures and tastes that will leave you wanting more. Gather your family and friends, and prepare to enjoy a truly unforgettable meal. Don’t be surprised when they ask for the recipe! It’s that good.
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use gluten-free pasta for this recipe?
A1: Absolutely! Using gluten-free pasta is a simple substitution that won’t affect the overall taste or texture of the dish. Just be sure to cook the gluten-free pasta according to package directions, as it may require a slightly different cooking time.
Q2: I don’t have heavy cream. Can I use something else?
A2: While heavy cream is ideal for creating a rich and creamy sauce, you can substitute it with half-and-half or milk. However, the sauce will be less thick and creamy. If using milk, consider adding a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a tablespoon of cold water to the sauce while it’s simmering to help thicken it.
Q3: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
A3: Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegetarian by omitting the chicken. Consider adding other vegetables, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or artichoke hearts, to compensate for the chicken. You could also add white beans for a protein boost.
Q4: Can I freeze this pasta bake?
A4: Yes, you can freeze this pasta bake, but the texture may change slightly upon thawing. Assemble the pasta bake in a freezer-safe dish, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap, and then cover it with aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. When ready to bake, thaw the pasta bake in the refrigerator overnight. Remove the plastic wrap and foil and bake as directed, adding 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.
Q5: I don’t like spinach. What else can I use?
A5: If you’re not a fan of spinach, you can substitute it with other leafy greens, such as kale, Swiss chard, or arugula. You can also use roasted red peppers or even some broccoli florets! These will add color, flavor, and nutritional value to the dish. Remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly depending on the chosen vegetable.
