Baked Tuscan Chicken Pasta: 5-Star Family Dinner Recipe

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Baked Tuscan Chicken Pasta is an easy but impressive weeknight dinner that brings a taste of Italy right to your table. This delightful dish combines tender penne pasta with fresh spinach and succulent chicken, all enveloped in a creamy sundried tomato sauce. The aroma fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the dinner table. With a prep time of just 10 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you still want to serve something special.

Why You’ll Love This Baked Tuscan Chicken Pasta

There are countless reasons to love this Baked Tuscan Chicken Pasta. First, it’s a complete meal in one dish, making cleanup a breeze. Second, the creamy texture and rich flavors satisfy even the pickiest eaters, making it a family-friendly Tuscan chicken pasta dish. Third, it’s versatile; you can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins. Additionally, this is an easy baked Tuscan chicken pasta recipe that is perfect for meal prep. Not to mention, it fits well within the Gluten Free diet. Finally, it’s a great option for entertaining guests, showcasing your culinary skills without the fuss.

Ingredients for Baked Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Gather these items:

12 ounces dry penne pasta (4 cups)
2 & 1/4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 & 1/4 cups half & half (divided)
8 ounces sundried tomatoes in oil (drained and chopped)
1/2 teaspoon coarse salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated fresh Parmesan
5 ounces fresh baby spinach
1 & 1/2 cups rotisserie or baked chicken breast (diced into very small 1/2-inch size pieces)

How to Make Baked Tuscan Chicken Pasta Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat oven to 425F. Coat a 9×13 casserole dish with nonstick spray.
Step 2: To the casserole dish, add dry penne pasta, low sodium chicken broth, 2 cups half & half, drained and chopped sun dried tomatoes, and all the seasonings.
Step 3: Toss everything to coat and make sure the pasta is fully submerged in the liquid.
Step 4: Cover tightly with foil and bake for 40 minutes until the pasta is al dente.
Step 5: Remove the foil and stir in grated mozzarella cheese, grated parmesan, fresh baby spinach, and diced rotisserie chicken breast.
Step 6: Once the spinach has wilted and the cheese has melted, stir in the remaining 1/4 cup half & half, only if needed to loosen the mixture and make it creamy.
Step 7: Serve immediately and enjoy.

Pro Tips for the Best Baked Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Keep these in mind:

Use high-quality sundried tomatoes for added flavor.
Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for a nutritious boost.
Make sure to stir well after baking to evenly distribute the cheese and chicken.
This dish is perfect for oven-baked Tuscan chicken pasta lovers who enjoy creamy sauces.

Best Ways to Serve Baked Tuscan Chicken Pasta

For a complete meal, serve your Baked Tuscan Chicken Pasta with a side salad and garlic bread. You can also pair it with a glass of white wine to elevate the dining experience. If you’re looking for a quick meal, consider serving it with steamed vegetables for a nutritious side. This Italian chicken pasta casserole is sure to impress your guests.

How to Store and Reheat Baked Tuscan Chicken Pasta

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or place the entire dish back in the oven at 350°F until heated through. This meal is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a tasty dinner throughout the week.

Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Tuscan Chicken Pasta

What’s the secret to perfect Baked Tuscan Chicken Pasta?

The secret lies in ensuring that the pasta is fully submerged in the liquid before baking, allowing it to absorb all the flavors. Using fresh ingredients, like baby spinach and high-quality chicken, enhances the dish’s overall taste.

Can I make Baked Tuscan Chicken Pasta ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dish in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil and bake it when you’re ready to serve. This makes it an ideal one-pot Tuscan chicken pasta bake for busy nights.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Baked Tuscan Chicken Pasta?

Common mistakes include undercooking the pasta or not using enough liquid. Make sure to follow the instructions carefully, and don’t skip the step of covering the dish with foil before baking to prevent it from drying out.

Variations of Baked Tuscan Chicken Pasta You Can Try

There are many delicious variations of this dish to explore. For a healthy baked Tuscan chicken pasta, consider using whole wheat pasta or adding more vegetables for extra nutrients. For a twist, try incorporating sun-dried tomatoes or a dash of pesto for a burst of flavor. You can even make it a cheesy baked Tuscan chicken pasta by adding extra cheese on top before baking!

For more delicious recipes, check out our Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Recipe or Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta. If you’re interested in meal prep ideas, visit Easy Calzone Recipe for a quick and tasty option.