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Homemade Healthy Three-Cheese Chicken Penne Pasta Bake photo

Healthy Three-Cheese Chicken Penne Pasta Bake

This Healthy Three-Cheese Chicken Penne Pasta Bake is a comforting, delicious meal packed with nutrients!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

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

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Spatula

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the multi-grain penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bite-sized pieces of chicken and cook until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, dried basil, and a pinch of salt. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Add the fresh spinach and drained diced tomatoes to the skillet. Cook until the spinach is wilted and tender, about 2-3 minutes.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken mixture, spaghetti sauce, and Neufchatel cheese. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.
  6. Transfer the mixture to a 9x13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese on top, then layer the remaining pasta mixture. Finish with the rest of the mozzarella and the grated Parmesan cheese.
  7. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  8. Let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving. This pasta bake pairs wonderfully with a side salad or some crusty whole-grain bread.

Notes

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  • For a make-ahead option, prepare the dish and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
  • This dish freezes well; wrap tightly and store for up to 3 months.
  • Consider adding red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.