Tuscan Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe

There's nothing quite like the comforting aroma of Tuscan Chicken Pasta Bake bubbling away in the oven. Creamy, cheesy, and brimming with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach, it’s a dish that feels like a warm hug after a long day.

this Recipe

This recipe became a staple in my home after a trip to Italy inspired me to recreate the bold flavors of Tuscan cuisine. Perfect for family dinners or make-ahead meals, this pasta bake is sure to be a hit with everyone around the table. Let’s dive in and see why you’ll love this recipe!

Why You'll Love This Tuscan Chicken Pasta Bake

Get ready to add this Tuscan Chicken Pasta Bake to your list of must-make recipes. It’s easy, satisfying, and packed with Italian-inspired flavors.

First off, it’s a breeze to put together. With just 30 minutes of prep time, you can have everything ready to pop into the oven. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something hearty without a lot of hassle.

The flavors are rich and indulgent. Creamy Alfredo-style sauce, savory chicken, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and vibrant spinach come together beautifully for a restaurant-quality meal at home.

Another reason to love this dish is its versatility. It’s a great way to use up leftover chicken or swap in other vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini to suit your preferences.

Finally, this pasta bake is perfect for meal prep. Make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer – it reheats like a dream, making weeknight dinners even easier.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Tuscan Chicken Pasta Bake comes from its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one is thoughtfully chosen to balance taste and texture.

Pasta is the foundation of this dish, and penne is my favorite choice. Its tubular shape holds the sauce perfectly, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. Rotini or rigatoni are excellent alternatives if you prefer.

For the chicken, boneless, skinless chicken breasts work well, offering a lean protein option. Alternatively, chicken thighs bring a richer flavor and remain tender throughout cooking. Pre-cooked rotisserie chicken can be a great shortcut.

The sauce is made with a blend of heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and chicken broth, creating a creamy, savory base that ties everything together. A touch of Italian seasoning adds just the right amount of herby aroma.

Sun-dried tomatoes provide a burst of tangy sweetness, cutting through the richness of the sauce. Look for ones packed in oil for the best flavor.

Finally, fresh spinach adds a pop of color and a boost of nutrients. It wilts beautifully into the sauce, balancing out the indulgent creaminess.

You’ll also need a baking dish and a skillet for sautéing to bring it all together.

How To Make This Tuscan Chicken Pasta Bake

Making this Tuscan Chicken Pasta Bake is as simple as layering a few flavorful components. Follow these steps for a foolproof dish every time.

Start by cooking the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain it and set it aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.

In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken, seasoned with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes. Remove it from the skillet and slice it into bite-sized pieces.

In the same skillet, add a touch more oil and sauté garlic until fragrant. Stir in the heavy cream, chicken broth, and Italian seasoning, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the Parmesan cheese, whisking until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Toss in the sun-dried tomatoes and spinach, stirring until the spinach wilts.

Combine the cooked pasta, chicken, and sauce in a large mixing bowl, ensuring everything is evenly coated. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and top with shredded mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan for extra cheesiness.

Bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Storage Options

Tuscan Chicken Pasta Bake stores beautifully, making it a great choice for meal prep or leftovers.

If storing in the refrigerator, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.

For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers. This way, you can reheat just what you need without thawing the entire dish. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.

To reheat, microwave refrigerated portions on medium power or bake in the oven at 350°F until heated through. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, making it easy to tailor to your tastes or dietary needs.

For a vegetarian version, skip the chicken and add extra veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers. The sauce is flavorful enough to carry the dish on its own.

Looking for a gluten-free option? Use your favorite gluten-free pasta. Just be sure to check the cooking times, as they can vary from regular pasta.

If you want to lighten things up, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese slightly. The result will still be creamy and delicious.

Craving extra protein? Toss in cooked sausage or even shrimp for a twist on the classic recipe.

Finally, play around with the herbs and spices. A pinch of red pepper flakes or a handful of fresh basil leaves can elevate the dish even further.

Tuscan Chicken Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort food that’s as easy to customize as it is to make. Enjoy experimenting and make it your own!

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