Creamy Chicken Pasta Bake is a comforting and satisfying dish that combines tender pieces of chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich, creamy sauce, all baked to perfection. This hearty casserole is a fantastic way to use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken, making it a quick and easy weeknight dinner option. The addition of vegetables like spinach or broccoli adds a nutritious touch, while a sprinkle of cheese on top creates a deliciously bubbly crust. Perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this pasta bake is sure to become a family favorite, offering creamy, cheesy goodness in every bite.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked pasta (penne, rotini, or your choice)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 1 cup fresh spinach (or frozen, thawed and drained)
- 1 cup broccoli florets (optional)
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until the onion is translucent. Add the fresh spinach (and broccoli, if using) and cook until the spinach is wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Make the Sauce: In a large bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir in the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and sautéed vegetables until well combined.
- Combine with Cheese: Gently fold in half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses into the pasta mixture.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Top with the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired, and serve warm.
Creamy Chicken Pasta Bake is a delightful one-dish meal that brings together comforting flavors and textures, making it a hit for both kids and adults. Enjoy this hearty casserole with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal!