Chicken and spinach pasta bake
Delight in the delicious flavors of our Chicken and Spinach Pasta Bake! Made with whole-wheat pasta, tender chicken breasts, fresh spinach, and a creamy sauce flavored with garlic, onion, basil, and oregano. This hearty and nutritious dish is topped with a savory blend of mozzarella and parmesan cheeses, perfect for a weeknight meal. Enjoy a wholesome pasta bake that's both comforting and packed with protein and vegetables. Easy to prepare and sure to please the whole family!
- 12 Apr 2024
- Cook time 50 min
- Prep time 20 min
- 8 Servings
- 19 Ingredients
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.
Ingredients:
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!
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.
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!
| Nutrition Facts | |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | 230 grams |
| Energy | |
| Calories 300kcal | 12% |
| Protein | |
| Protein 24g | 17% |
| Carbohydrates | |
| Carbohydrates 24g | 7% |
| Fiber 2.94g | 8% |
| Sugar 4.19g | 4% |
| Fat | |
| Fat 16g | 19% |
| Saturated 6g | 21% |
| Cholesterol 70mg | - |
| Vitamins | |
| Vitamin A 190ug | 21% |
| Choline 70mg | 12% |
| Vitamin B1 0.21mg | 17% |
| Vitamin B2 0.36mg | 28% |
| Vitamin B3 7mg | 47% |
| Vitamin B6 0.63mg | 37% |
| Vitamin B9 54ug | 14% |
| Vitamin B12 0.74ug | 31% |
| Vitamin C 9mg | 10% |
| Vitamin E 1.17mg | 8% |
| Vitamin K 130ug | 110% |
| Minerals | |
| Calcium, Ca 250mg | 19% |
| Copper, Cu 0.20mg | 0% |
| Iron, Fe 1.75mg | 16% |
| Magnesium, Mg 88mg | 20% |
| Phosphorus, P 380mg | 30% |
| Potassium, K 530mg | 16% |
| Selenium, Se 40ug | 73% |
| Sodium, Na 700mg | 47% |
| Zinc, Zn 2.23mg | 20% |
| Water | |
| Water 160g | - |
| * Percent Daily Values are based on a 2500 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. | |
More recipes
Spinach and vegetable risotto
Ready in under an hour, this risotto is a delicious way to elevate your meal.
21 May 2024Chicken chop sueey with red pepper and chinese cabbage
Ready in no time, this healthy and vibrant dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal prep option.
18 May 2024Beef and mushroom soy and ginger skewers
Perfect for a delicious dinner that’s both quick and satisfying.
04 May 2024Lemon spaghetti squash with shrimp
Perfect for a light, satisfying meal that’s both gluten-free and delicious.
23 Mar 2024Fish and chips with yoghurt tartare
Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner!”.
26 Apr 2024Greek-style chicken with tzatziki
Paired with a refreshing homemade tzatziki sauce, it's a Mediterranean feast you won't want to miss.
14 Mar 2024Steak pita sandwiches
A perfect, easy-to-make meal that combines hearty protein with fresh veggies for a satisfying bite.
08 Jun 2024Piri-piri chicken
Perfect for grilling or roasting, it's a mouthwatering dish that's sure to impress.
08 Apr 2024Shake n bake chicken strips
Enjoy a mouthwatering, effortless meal with minimal prep and maximum flavor.
29 Mar 2024Broccoli, chilli and shrimp pizzas
Try it for a refreshing and spicy meal that's sure to impress.
15 Mar 2024Chilli peanut chicken with rice
Ready for a flavor explosion? Try this easy, mouth-watering dish.
01 May 2024Chicken and brown rice with a rich gravy
This easy-to-follow recipe combines hearty brown rice, tender chicken, and a lush gravy, all brought together with a hint of butter and olive oil for a delightful meal perfect for any night of the week.
12 Jun 2024Spaghetti with asparagus and spinach pesto
Savor the bright, refreshing taste with every bite.
27 Apr 2024Vietnamese caramel pork with steamed bok choy
Easy to prepare and irresistibly tasty, it's perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner.
31 Mar 2024Chilli, garlic and basil spaghetti
Serve with a sprinkle of black pepper for the perfect touch.
16 Apr 2024Turkey stuffed bell peppers
Perfect for a satisfying dinner that's both nutritious and delicious.
30 May 2024