Name: Chicken, Spinach, and Cheese Pasta Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 8 ounces penne pasta; 3 cups chopped cooked chicken; 1 teaspoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 10 ounces fresh spinach; 14 ounces Italian-style diced tomatoes (with juices); 8 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Jump to Recipe

Craving a comforting pasta dish that oozes with cheesy goodness, tender chicken, and bursts of wholesome greens? Chicken, Spinach, and Cheese Pasta Bake has you covered! There’s nothing quite as soul-warming as biting into a creamy, hearty casserole that brings the family rushing to the dinner table. Did you know the term “pasta bake” dates back centuries, with Italian grandmothers layering love into every bite? This recipe delivers the same heartwarming flavors in a fuss-free way. It’s quick, uses pantry-friendly ingredients, and is a huge hit with even the pickiest eaters. If you loved our Baked Ziti with Veggies, you’re going to adore this pasta bake. Ready for a bubbly, golden-topped classic your whole family will request again and again? Let’s get cooking!

What is Chicken, Spinach, and Cheese Pasta Bake?

Let’s talk about that mouthful of a name: Chicken, Spinach, and Cheese Pasta Bake! It sounds like everything you love in one cheesy, saucy dish, doesn’t it? Well, that’s because it is. Who needs fancy restaurant titles when you can just list all the best parts right up front? Some might say, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach”—and with a name like this, you know you’re headed straight there. Plus, there’s no mystery here: chicken, spinach, cheese, all baked into dreamy, pasta-packed comfort. So what are you waiting for? Dive in and make dinner unforgettable tonight!

Why You’ll Love This

This pasta bake truly delivers on all fronts—creamy, tangy cream cheese brings rich flavor, while juicy chicken chunks and nutritious spinach turn any meal into a celebration. Making it at home is perfect for budget-friendly family cooking; it’s more affordable and far tastier than takeout versions. Don’t forget the golden mozzarella cheese that bubbles and browns on top, creating that irresistible, gooey finish everyone fights over! Compared to our ever-popular Cheesy Broccoli Casserole, this dish adds a hearty dose of protein and greens, making it a perfect all-in-one meal. Tempted yet? Gather your ingredients and see just how easy and delicious this comfort classic can be!

How to Make

Quick Overview

This dish couldn’t be easier or more rewarding—simply toss together cooked pasta, chicken, spinach, and tangy cream cheese, then bake with a thick layer of mozzarella until bubbly and golden. It’s got that comforting creaminess and garlicky aroma you crave, yet comes together in under an hour. The result? A rich, satisfying pasta bake dinner fit for any busy weeknight, potluck, or cozy family Sunday. Prep takes just about 20 minutes, with a total time of around 45 minutes from start to finish.

Ingredients

1 (8 ounce) package penne pasta
1 teaspoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
3 cups chopped cooked chicken
1 (14 ounce) can Italian-style diced tomatoes
1 (10 ounce) package fresh spinach
1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Step-by-Step

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly oil a large baking dish.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until it softens and turns translucent.
Stir in the chopped cooked chicken and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Add the can of Italian-style diced tomatoes (with juices) and the spinach. Stir until the spinach wilts, about 3-4 minutes.
Reduce the heat to low and blend in the softened cream cheese. Stir constantly until the mixture turns creamy and smooth.
Fold the cooked pasta into the skillet, mixing well to ensure every bite is coated with the luscious sauce.
Pour the pasta mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish.
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top.
Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
Let cool for a few minutes, then serve warm—watch everyone run for seconds!

What to Serve Chicken, Spinach, and Cheese Pasta Bake With

Pair this flavorful pasta bake with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette, or serve alongside roasted vegetables like carrots or zucchini to complement the creamy casserole. Warm garlic bread or a basket of soft dinner rolls makes the perfect vehicle for scooping up extra cheesy sauce. If you’re entertaining, a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon adds a refreshing balance to the rich bake.

Top Tips for Perfecting

Swap the penne for rigatoni or rotini if you prefer a different pasta shape—they hold sauce beautifully.
Use rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra flavor, or substitute with leftover turkey.
Lighten the recipe using low-fat cream cheese or a sprinkle of parmesan for an even more savory touch.
Avoid overbaking—it just needs enough time to melt and brown the cheese! Overcooking can dry out your pasta.
Don’t forget to taste for salt before baking—some cheeses and store-bought chickens are saltier than others.

Storing and Reheating Tips

This pasta bake stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers! Place cooled portions in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave individual servings for 2-3 minutes or warm the whole dish, covered, in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through. Want to freeze it? Assemble the pasta bake but don’t bake it until ready to eat—simply seal with plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as usual for a fuss-free dinner.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Thaw and drain it well to avoid extra moisture in your bake.

What type of chicken works best?

Any cooked chicken—grilled, poached, or rotisserie—tastes great here. Even leftover turkey can be swapped in.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the pasta bake, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Certainly! Omit the chicken and add extra veggies such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for a flavorful meat-free version.

How do I prevent the cheese from burning on top?

If your cheese browns too quickly, cover with foil for the first 10 minutes of baking, then remove foil to finish browning.

Conclusion

Chicken, Spinach, and Cheese Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort food, fusing tender chicken, leafy spinach, and gooey cheese with every forkful. It’s easy enough for weeknight meals but delicious enough to wow guests at your next gathering. With straightforward ingredients and a fail-proof method, this dish proves that delicious homemade dinners can be both simple and satisfying. Don’t be surprised if it becomes your family’s new favorite! Dive into this bubbling, cheesy pasta bake tonight and create mouthwatering memories around your table.