If you’re looking for a hearty and comforting dish, then the Tuscan Chicken Pasta Bake is the perfect choice. This easy-to-make casserole is packed with delicious flavors and creamy textures. It’s a wonderful meal that brings together tender chicken, hearty pasta, fresh spinach, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes, all topped with melted cheese. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe will quickly become a favorite.
Why Make This Recipe
This Tuscan Chicken Pasta Bake is a fantastic recipe for many reasons. First, it’s simple and quick to prepare, making it an ideal weeknight meal. Second, it is a complete dish, combining protein, carbs, and vegetables all in one. Finally, the flavors are delightful — the creamy sauce mingles wonderfully with the Italian herbs, making each bite satisfying. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover chicken you might have!
How to Make Tuscan Chicken Pasta Bake
Making the Tuscan Chicken Pasta Bake is straightforward. Just gather your ingredients, follow the steps below, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Ingredients:
- 2 diced chicken breasts (1-inch pieces, about 1 ½ pounds)
- 10 ounces penne pasta (uncooked)
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 ½ cups chicken broth
- 2 cups chopped spinach
- 2 (8-ounce) jars drained and chopped sun-dried tomatoes
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese
- 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
- In the baking dish, add the diced chicken breasts, penne pasta, heavy cream, chicken broth, chopped spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stir everything together to combine well. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- After 30 minutes, remove the dish from the oven and stir to ensure that all the pasta is coated in liquid. Cook for an additional 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and stir the casserole again. Top the dish with shredded parmesan cheese and grated mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven, stir in the melted cheese, and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
How to Serve Tuscan Chicken Pasta Bake
This dish is best served hot and fresh from the oven. You can serve it with a side salad or garlic bread to complete the meal. For extra flavor, sprinkle some fresh basil or parsley on top before serving.
How to Store Tuscan Chicken Pasta Bake
To store any leftovers, place the dish in an airtight container and refrigerate it. It will last for about 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze any leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven until warmed through.
Tips to Make Tuscan Chicken Pasta Bake
- For a quicker cooking time, you can use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken.
- Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition.
- Adjust the seasonings to your preference; if you like it spicier, consider adding red pepper flakes.
Variation
You can easily customize this recipe by using different types of pasta or adding other proteins such as shrimp or sausage. If you prefer a lighter version, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as fusilli or bowtie pasta. Just ensure it is uncooked when mixing with the other ingredients.
2. Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish ahead of time, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
3. Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes, you can freeze this pasta bake. Just make sure it cools completely before putting it in a freezer-safe container. Reheat it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
With this Tuscan Chicken Pasta Bake, you can enjoy a tasty and comforting meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table!
Tuscan Chicken Pasta Bake
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds diced chicken breasts Cut into 1-inch pieces
- 10 ounces penne pasta Uncooked
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 ½ cups chicken broth
- 2 cups chopped spinach
- 2 jars drained and chopped sun-dried tomatoes Each jar is 8 ounces
Seasonings
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
Cheese Topping
- 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese
- 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
- In the baking dish, add the diced chicken breasts, penne pasta, heavy cream, chicken broth, chopped spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stir everything together to combine well.
Baking
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- After 30 minutes, remove the dish from the oven and stir to ensure that all the pasta is coated in liquid.
- Cook for an additional 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and stir the casserole again.
- Top the dish with shredded parmesan cheese and grated mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven, stir in the melted cheese, and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
