This chicken spinach pasta bake is the ultimate easy and comforting dinner! Made with tender chicken, nutritious spinach, and pasta baked in a creamy, cheesy sauce. This family-friendly meal is packed with flavor and nutrition. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or a cozy gathering, this hearty casserole comes together with simple ingredients and minimal effort. Plus, it's a great way to sneak in extra greens for picky eaters! Whether you're looking for a quick make-ahead dinner or a satisfying baked pasta dish, this chicken spinach pasta bake is sure to be a hit!
Course: dinner
Keyword: baked pasta, chicken pasta, dinner, easy dinner, family dinner, kid friendly, pasta bake, spinach pasta
Servings: 6
Ingredients
½lbpasta (elbows, penne, rigatoni, etc!)
½lbcooked chicken, shredded
1tbspolive oil
2garlic cloves, minced
2cupsfresh spinach, chopped
1tbsp grassfed butter
1tbsp einkorn flour or all-purpose flour
1¾cupswhole milk
1cupshredded mozzarella
½cupgrated parmesan cheese
1tspdried basil
1tsp dried oregano
1tspsea salt
½tspblack pepper
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for about 1 minute. Add the fresh spinach and sauté for 2-3 minutes until wilted and softened. Season with a pinch of salt.
Next, make the sauce. In a small saucepan, add in the butter. Let it melt. Add in the flour and mix until you create a roux (thick paste).
Pour in the milk and whisk well until combined. Add in ½ cup mozzarella cheese and about 1/4 cup parmesan. Whisk until well combined. Add in ½ tsp sea salt & all the seasonings. Let the sauce thicken slightly.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, spinach and sauce mixture. Stir until well combined.
Transfer the pasta to a greased 9x9 baking dish. Sprinkle with the shredded mozzarella cheese on top, and add extra Parmesan if desired.
Cover the dish with foil and bake in the oven for 15 minutes. Uncover and bake for an additional 15 minutes. Optional to broil it for 2-4 minutes to get the top golden brown!
Serve & enjoy!
Notes
For Storing: Store in airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.