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Creamy Tuscan Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Bake

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A quick and easy creamy Tuscan sun-dried tomato chicken pasta bake that combines tender chicken, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and a luscious creamy sauce baked to golden perfection.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 12 oz (340g) penne or rigatoni pasta
  • ½ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil
  • 3 cups fresh baby spinach
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
  • 4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup (240 ml) low sodium chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (oregano, basil, thyme blend)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Red pepper flakes (optional, a pinch)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta for 8-9 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup pasta water.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook chicken for 6-8 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
  3. Reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic to skillet and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 2 minutes.
  4. Add cream cheese and heavy cream to skillet. Stir continuously until cream cheese melts and sauce is smooth. Pour in chicken broth and simmer for 3-4 minutes to thicken.
  5. Stir in Parmesan cheese, season with additional salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Add fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
  6. Return cooked chicken to skillet and fold in drained pasta. Add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time if sauce is too thick.
  7. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle extra Parmesan on top.
  8. Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and top is lightly browned.
  9. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the pan when cooking chicken to ensure a good sear. Use room temperature cream cheese for smooth sauce. Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency. Avoid overcooking garlic to prevent bitterness. Add extra Parmesan before baking for a crispy crust.

Nutrition

Keywords: Tuscan, sun-dried tomato, chicken, pasta bake, creamy, easy dinner, comfort food

Find it online: https://prismtaste.com/creamy-tuscan-sun-dried-tomato-chicken-pasta-bake-recipe-easy-and-delicious/