Chicken and spinach make a perfect pairing, and when combined with the hearty texture of penne pasta and the savory goodness of a casserole bake, the result is a dish that’s sure to please everyone around the dinner table. This Chicken & Spinach Penne Bake is a delicious, comforting meal that’s as easy to make as it is to eat. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or preparing a crowd-pleasing dish for a gathering, this baked penne casserole recipe is a fantastic choice.
Why You Should Try This Chicken & Spinach Penne Bake
This Chicken & Spinach Penne Bake combines a few of the most beloved ingredients in one simple yet delectable dish. Penne, a tubular-shaped pasta, holds up beautifully in the oven, allowing the creamy sauce and the savory flavors to seep in, while the chicken provides protein and the spinach offers a healthy, fresh bite. Together, they create a balanced and satisfying meal.
Here’s why you should consider adding this to your recipe rotation:
- Easy to Prepare: Despite its impressive flavors, this dish is surprisingly simple to make. With just a few basic ingredients and a little time in the oven, you’ll have a delicious, satisfying meal.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: The Chicken & Spinach Penne Bake makes for great leftovers. It stores well in the fridge, and reheating it is a breeze.
- Comfort Food with a Healthy Twist: While it’s a rich and creamy casserole, the addition of spinach ensures you’re sneaking in some greens without sacrificing flavor. The creamy texture, combined with the fresh greens, creates a dish that’s rich and indulgent but still nutritious.
This dish can be enjoyed in so many contexts: as a comforting weeknight dinner, a dish to impress guests at a gathering, or even as a delicious make-ahead option for busy weeks. It’s the ultimate combination of flavor, comfort, and convenience.
Ingredients for Chicken & Spinach Penne Bake
To create this mouthwatering chicken spinach pasta bake, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb penne pasta (cooked al dente)
- 2 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless, cooked and diced)
- 3 cups fresh spinach (roughly chopped)
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (drained)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
These ingredients come together to make the most delicious, comforting meal with just the right balance of creaminess and savory flavors. If you’re craving a heartwarming dish that combines creamy textures, tender chicken, and vibrant greens, this is the perfect recipe for you.
Instructions for Making Chicken & Spinach Penne Bake
Now that you have all your ingredients, let’s get started with this easy-to-follow recipe.
Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta
Begin by cooking the penne pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water. Follow the package instructions to cook the pasta until it is al dente. It’s important not to overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook in the oven later. Once the pasta is ready, drain it and set it aside.
Tip: When cooking pasta, always remember to add a generous pinch of salt to the boiling water. This helps to season the pasta and enhances its flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
If your chicken breasts aren’t already cooked, you can either pan-fry or bake them. To pan-fry, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a pinch of dried oregano and basil. Once the skillet is hot, add the chicken breasts and cook on both sides until they’re golden brown and fully cooked through (about 6-7 minutes per side). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before dicing it into small, bite-sized pieces.
Alternative: If you’re in a rush or prefer a quicker option, you can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. Simply shred it and add it directly to the casserole. This will save you time and effort.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until softened and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. The garlic will release a wonderful aroma that will add depth to the flavor of your dish.
Next, add the chopped spinach to the pan. Cook the spinach for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it wilts down and reduces in size. At this point, the spinach will release some moisture, but that’s perfectly fine as it will all contribute to the flavor of the sauce.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
Once the spinach has cooked down, pour in the heavy cream (or milk, if you prefer a lighter version) and stir to combine. The creaminess of the sauce will bring together all the ingredients beautifully. Add the ricotta cheese and stir until it’s well mixed into the cream. The ricotta will add richness and a slight tang to the dish. Season with salt, pepper, and the dried oregano and basil. Mix in the diced tomatoes, and allow the mixture to simmer for about 5-7 minutes so the flavors can meld together and develop.
Tip: Taste your sauce as you go along. If you prefer a creamier or more flavorful sauce, you can add more cream or cheese. Adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences.
Step 5: Assemble the Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta, sautéed chicken, and spinach mixture. Add 1 ½ cups of the shredded mozzarella cheese and mix everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
Tip: If you want extra gooey cheese in your bake, you can add an additional cup of shredded mozzarella and stir it in with the other ingredients. The more cheese, the better!
Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese on top of the pasta. If you’re using breadcrumbs, sprinkle them evenly over the top for a crispy, golden finish. The breadcrumbs add a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creamy pasta and melted cheese.
Step 6: Bake the Casserole
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is melted and slightly browned, and the casserole is hot throughout.
Tip: If you prefer a more golden, crispy top, you can broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Just be sure to keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once the Chicken & Spinach Penne Bake is out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the casserole to set and make it easier to serve. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley, if desired. Serve it with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.
Variations on Chicken & Spinach Penne Bake
This recipe is incredibly versatile, so feel free to switch things up to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs:
- Add More Vegetables: For a heartier dish, consider adding more vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini. These vegetables will enhance the flavor and add a bit of variety to the texture of the dish.
- Use Different Cheeses: If you’re a fan of different cheeses, try adding provolone, cheddar, or a sharp asiago cheese to the mix. The cheese options are endless, and each one brings its own unique flavor.
- Make it Gluten-Free: You can substitute the penne pasta with gluten-free pasta and still enjoy all the flavors of this dish. There are many high-quality gluten-free pastas available that mimic the texture of traditional pasta, so you won’t miss a thing.
- Spicy Version: Add some crushed red pepper flakes for a kick of heat if you like things a little spicier. The heat will complement the creamy sauce and add an exciting layer of flavor.
- Substitute the Chicken: If you prefer, you can swap out the chicken for turkey or even shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker option. You can also go meatless and add more vegetables or plant-based protein, such as tofu or tempeh.
Why Chicken and Spinach Pair So Well Together
When you combine chicken with spinach, you’re creating a balanced, flavorful, and nutritious meal. Here’s why the two ingredients are a match made in culinary heaven:
- Chicken: This lean protein adds richness and flavor to the dish, while also making it filling and satisfying. Chicken is versatile, absorbs flavors well, and pairs well with both creamy and tangy sauces.
- Spinach: This leafy green is a nutritional powerhouse. It’s packed with vitamins and minerals, particularly iron, calcium, and vitamin A. When cooked, spinach becomes tender and adds a subtle, earthy flavor that complements the richness of the chicken and pasta.
Together, they create a balanced dish that offers a great mix of protein, fiber, and nutrients, all wrapped up in a creamy, cheesy bake.
Tips for Perfecting Your Chicken & Spinach Penne Bake
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Since the pasta will continue cooking in the oven, be sure to cook it al dente to avoid a mushy texture.
- Use Fresh Spinach: While frozen spinach is an option, fresh spinach tends to have a better texture and flavor in baked dishes. If you’re using frozen spinach, make sure to squeeze out all the excess moisture before adding it to the dish.
- Season Well: Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning. A little extra salt, pepper, or herbs can really enhance the flavor.
- Leftover Love: This dish makes excellent leftovers. Store any remaining casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can easily reheat it in the oven or microwave.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
This Chicken & Spinach Penne Bake is not only delicious but also packed with nutrition. Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional content per serving:
- Calories: 400-500 (depending on the ingredients used)
- Protein: 30-35g
- Carbohydrates: 40-45g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Fiber: 3-4g
Final Thoughts
The Chicken & Spinach Penne Bake is the ultimate comfort food with a nutritious twist. It’s rich and satisfying, yet packed with fresh spinach to balance out the flavors. Whether you call it a Chicken and Spinach Casserole, a Spinach Pasta Bake, or Chicken Spinach Pasta, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. With its versatility, ease of preparation, and ability to feed a crowd, it’s perfect for everything from family dinners to potlucks.
So, next time you’re craving a comforting yet wholesome meal, give this Chicken Penne Bake a try. You won’t be disappointed!
