Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
baked creamy chicken pasta fresh from oven with melted cheese

Baked Creamy Chicken Pasta That Feels Like Comfort in Every Bite


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Oprah
  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Description

A rich and comforting baked creamy chicken pasta made with tender chicken, tomato cream sauce, and melted cheese.


Ingredients

10.5 ounces pasta

1 tablespoon butter

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-size pieces

1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

1 small onion, finely diced

4 garlic cloves, finely diced

1 tablespoon fresh rosemary or thyme, finely chopped

2 tablespoons tomato paste

1/2 cup chicken broth or water

3 cups tomato puree

1 cup heavy cream

2/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided

1 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon salt

3 cups fresh baby spinach

1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)


Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.

2. Cook the pasta in well-salted water, stopping about 2 minutes before it’s fully done. Drain and toss with butter to prevent sticking. Set aside.

3. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then coat lightly with the flour.

4. Heat a drizzle of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 2 minutes per side until lightly browned. Remove and set aside.

5. In the same skillet, cook the diced onion with a pinch of salt over medium heat until soft, about 3–4 minutes.

6. Stir in the garlic and herbs, cooking for about 1 minute.

7. Add the tomato paste and cook for another minute.

8. Pour in the tomato puree and cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.

9. Add half of the Parmesan cheese and stir until melted. Season to taste.

10. Return the chicken to the skillet and simmer for 2–3 minutes.

11. In a large bowl, combine pasta and spinach.

12. Pour sauce over and mix well. Transfer to baking dish.

13. Top with mozzarella and remaining Parmesan.

14. Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden and bubbly.

15. Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Do not overbake to keep the pasta creamy.

You can prepare ahead and bake later.

Add a splash of cream when reheating leftovers.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Category: Comfort Food
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired