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- 12 ounces penne pasta - 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie or leftovers work well) - 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped - 1 cup ricotta cheese - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese - ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon salt - ½ teaspoon black pepper - ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) - Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Bake

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this creamy chicken and spinach pasta bake! Featuring tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a rich, velvety sauce, this dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Easy to prepare, it allows for endless customization with different ingredients. Bake until golden and bubbly for a meal that not only satisfies your cravings but is also packed with nutrients. Share a delicious experience around the table with this hearty recipe!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz (about 2 cups) penne pasta

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced

3 cups fresh spinach, cleaned and roughly chopped

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup grated mozzarella cheese, divided

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp onion powder

1 tsp Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tbsp olive oil

½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Fresh basil for garnishing (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    Cook Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

      Sauté Spinach and Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the chopped spinach and cook, stirring frequently, until wilted (about 2-3 minutes). Remove from heat.

        Prepare Creamy Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, heavy cream, half of the mozzarella cheese (½ cup), Parmesan cheese, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well until creamy.

          Combine Ingredients: In the same bowl, add the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and sautéed spinach. Stir everything together until well combined and evenly coated with the creamy mixture.

            Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the pasta mixture into a greased 9x13-inch (or similar) baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.

              Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.

                Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil if desired, then serve hot.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 45 min | 6 servings