Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Bake

This creamy chicken and spinach pasta bake brings comfort straight to the dinner table. It combines tender chicken, pasta, fresh spinach, and a rich homemade cream sauce, all baked until bubbly and golden. This recipe works perfectly for busy weeknights, meal prep, or cozy family dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It uses simple, everyday ingredients you already have
• The creamy sauce comes together without heavy effort
• Fresh spinach adds color and balance to the dish
• It bakes beautifully and reheats well
• This pasta bake works for family dinners and leftovers

Ingredients

• 12 ounces pasta penne or fusilli
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast cut into bite-size pieces
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 2 cups fresh spinach roughly chopped
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• ½ cup cooking cream
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a baking dish.
2. Cook the pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
4. Add chicken, salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Cook until the chicken turns golden and cooks through.
5. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
6. Add spinach and cook until wilted. Transfer the mixture to a bowl.
7. Melt butter in the same skillet over medium heat.
8. Whisk in flour and cook for one minute.
9. Slowly pour in milk while whisking to keep the sauce smooth.
10. Add cooking cream and simmer until thickened.
11. Stir in half of the mozzarella and cheddar until melted.
12. Combine pasta, chicken mixture, and sauce in a large bowl.
13. Transfer everything to the baking dish and top with remaining cheese.
14. Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden.
15. Rest for five minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use rotisserie-style cooked chicken to save time
• Add mushrooms for extra texture and flavor
• Swap penne for rigatoni or ziti if needed
• Use baby spinach for a milder taste
• Add red pepper flakes for gentle heat
• Sprinkle extra cheese on top for a crispier finish

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days
• Reheat individual portions in the microwave until warmed through
• Reheat larger portions in the oven at 350°F for best texture
• Freeze baked pasta tightly covered for up to two months
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Serve with a simple green salad for balance
• Pair with garlic bread or soft dinner rolls
• Add roasted vegetables on the side for extra color
• Serve with sparkling water or fresh lemonade
• Finish with a light fruit dessert for contrast

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this pasta bake ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the entire dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it perfect for busy schedules or entertaining.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

You can use frozen spinach, but thaw and squeeze out excess moisture first. This keeps the sauce creamy instead of watery.

What type of pasta works best?

Short pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or ziti hold the sauce well and bake evenly, making them ideal for this dish.

Can I make this lighter?

You can replace cooking cream with extra milk and reduce the cheese slightly. The bake will still stay creamy and flavorful.

Ready to Make It?

This creamy chicken and spinach pasta bake brings comfort, flavor, and ease together in one dish. Save it for later, share it with friends, or add it to your weekly meal rotation for a reliable dinner everyone will enjoy.

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