Chicken and spinach pasta bake
This Chicken and Spinach Pasta Bake features whole-wheat pasta, tender chicken, and a creamy cheese sauce, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal. Baked until golden and bubbly, it's perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
Cook time 50 min
Prep time 20 min
Ingredients:
16 oz whole-wheat pasta3/4 package spinach
3 tbsp olive oil
1 lb chicken breasts
1 tsp salt
1/4 tsp white pepper
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/2 onion
2 tbsp all-purpose white wheat flour
1 cup milk (2% fat)
8 oz cream cheese
3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
Get ready to enjoy a hearty and nutritious Chicken and Spinach Pasta Bake, perfect for a cozy family dinner or a meal prep solution that will leave everyone satisfied. This recipe combines whole-wheat pasta, tender chicken, leafy spinach, and a creamy cheese sauce to create a delicious and filling dish.
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the whole-wheat pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the spinach and cook until wilted. Remove and set aside.
- Season the chicken breasts with 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon white pepper, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon dried basil, and 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano.
- In the same large pan, heat another 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook until they are no longer pink in the center and juices run clear, about 6-8 minutes per side. Remove from the pan and let cool.
- Once cool, cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- In the same pan, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the 2 tablespoons of flour and cook for about 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in the 1 cup of milk until smooth and thickened.
- Add the softened cream cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
- Add the 3/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Mix well and bring to a simmer.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, wilted spinach, and chicken pieces.
- Pour the sauce over the mixture and stir to combine evenly.
- Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Enjoy your delicious Chicken and Spinach Pasta Bake!
There you have it – a delicious Chicken and Spinach Pasta Bake that's both healthy and satisfying. This dish is sure to become a favorite in your household, and it's great for leftovers too. Enjoy the rich flavors and comforting textures of this homemade pasta bake!
Chicken and spinach pasta bake FAQ:
Bake the pasta bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
A 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish is ideal for this Chicken and Spinach Pasta Bake, providing enough space for even cooking and to hold all ingredients.
Yes, you can use regular pasta or gluten-free pasta as alternatives. Adjust cooking time based on the package instructions of your chosen pasta.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
The chicken is done when it is no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear, typically after about 6-8 minutes per side, or when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Cooking Tips:
- Pre-cook the chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and cook them thoroughly before adding to the pasta bake. This ensures the chicken is fully cooked and tender in the final dish.
- Use fresh spinach: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh spinach. If using frozen spinach, be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to avoid excess water in the bake.
- Mix the cheese sauce well: Whisk the flour and milk mixture constantly to avoid any lumps and ensure a smooth, creamy sauce. Adding cream cheese and grated parmesan will create a rich and flavorful base for the pasta.
- Layer the ingredients evenly: Evenly layer the pasta, chicken, spinach, and cheese sauce in the baking dish to ensure each bite is well-mixed and flavorful. Finish with a generous sprinkle of mozzarella cheese for a golden, bubbly top.
- Bake until bubbly: Bake the pasta until it’s golden brown and bubbly on top, which typically takes around 20-25 minutes in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). This gives the bake a deliciously crunchy crust.
- Let it rest: Allow the pasta bake to rest for 5-10 minutes after removing it from the oven. This helps the flavors meld together and makes it easier to serve.
Nutrition Facts
8 ServingsCalories 300kcal
Protein 24g
Carbohydrates 24g
Fiber 2.94g
Sugar 4.19g
Fat 16g
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