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Healthy Three Cheese Chicken Penne Pasta Bake

Healthy Three Cheese Chicken Penne Pasta Bake

The ultimate comfort food, Healthy Three Cheese Chicken Penne Pasta Bake is creamy, cheesy, and easy to prepare. This delicious dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner, packed with wholesome ingredients that will satisfy everyone at the table. Make it tonight for a cozy meal!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1-1/2 cups multi-grain penne pasta uncooked
  • 9 ounces fresh spinach leaves
  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-size pieces
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil leaves
  • 14-1/2 oz. jar spaghetti sauce
  • 1-2 cloves garlic minced
  • 14.5 ounces diced tomatoes drained
  • 2 oz Neufchatel cheese cubed (you can substitute cream cheese)
  • 1 cup shredded 2% milk mozzarella cheese divided
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

Equipment

  • Cutting Board
  • Baking Sheet
  • Large Pot
  • Skillet
  • Grater
  • Oven
  • Saucepan
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Frying pan
  • Wooden Spoon

Method
 

  1. Heat oven to 375ºF.
  2. Cook pasta as directed on package, omitting salt and adding spinach to the boiling water the last minute.
  3. Cook and stir chicken and basil in large nonstick skillet sprayed with cooking spray on medium-high heat for 3 minutes. Stir in spaghetti sauce, garlic, and tomatoes; bring to boil. Simmer on low heat for 3 minutes or until chicken is done. Stir in Neufchatel cheese.
  4. Drain pasta mixture; return to pan. Stir in chicken mixture and 1/2 cup mozzarella. Spoon into a 2-quart casserole or 8-inch square baking dish.
  5. Bake for 20 minutes; top with remaining cheeses. Bake for 3 minutes or until mozzarella is melted.

Notes

  • Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
  • Freezing: Freezing is an option! Allow the dish to cool completely, then wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to three months.
  • Pairing: Serve the bake with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
  • Spice It Up: If you like a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the chicken mixture for a spicy kick.
  • Using Different Proteins: You can replace the chicken with ground turkey or even cooked lentils for a vegetarian version.
  • Garnish: Top with fresh herbs like basil or parsley before serving for an extra flavor boost and visual appeal.