Looking for a homestyle dinner that feels like a warm embrace? This Easy Chicken and Vegetable Pasta Bake brings together creamy tomato sauce, tender chicken breast, and vibrant veggies in a rustic, inviting dish.
I remember the first time I made this—how the aroma of garlic and basil filled the kitchen, and the golden brown cheese crust made it impossible to wait for dinner. It’s the kind of meal that makes you want to gather around the table with loved ones and savor every bite.
Why You’ll Love It:
– Creamy and tender texture with a melty cheese topping that’s pure comfort
– Packed with wholesome ingredients like spinach and cherry tomatoes for a fresh pop of color and flavor
– Easy baking method means minimal hands-on time and maximum flavor
– Perfect for making ahead and sharing—ideal for bringing over to someone special
Simple, satisfying, and made with love—this pasta bake fits right into busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
PrintEasy Chicken and Vegetable Pasta Bake
A creamy tomato sauce pasta bake with tender chicken breast, fresh spinach, and melted mozzarella and parmesan cheeses, baked to a golden brown crust.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6
Ingredients
2 chicken breasts, diced
12 ounces penne pasta
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
2 cups fresh spinach
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup cream
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Add diced chicken breast to skillet, season with salt and black pepper, and cook until no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes.
Stir in cherry tomatoes and cook for 2 minutes until slightly softened.
Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
Pour in cream and add chopped basil. Stir gently to combine and heat through.
In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta and the creamy chicken and vegetable mixture. Mix well.
Transfer mixture to a rectangular baking dish. Sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan cheese evenly on top.
Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese topping is golden brown and bubbly.
Let cool for 5 minutes before scooping onto plates and serving.
FAQ
Q: Can I prepare this pasta bake in advance?
A: Absolutely! Assemble it ahead, refrigerate, and bake just before serving to enjoy fresh, melty goodness.
Q: How long will leftovers keep?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to keep it creamy and tender.
Save this recipe to your favorites, print it out for your next meal plan, or dive in and cook up a comforting dinner tonight!