_Rolls up sleeves with a big smile_
Oh my goodness, y’all! Let me tell you about this absolutely divine recipe that has my family literally fighting over the last bite every single time I make it. My Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta Bake is basically what would happen if comfort food and luxury had a baby – and trust me, it’s a beautiful creation!
Listen, as a busy mom who still wants to serve up something spectacular, I’ve perfected this recipe through countless family dinners. The best part? It’s actually way easier than it looks (don’t worry, I won’t tell if you don’t! 😉).
Here’s what you’ll need:
– 1 pound penne pasta
– 4 chicken breasts, diced
– 2 cups baby spinach
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 4 garlic cloves, minced (or more, I won’t judge!)
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup grated parmesan
– 1 cup mozzarella
– Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Fresh basil for garnish
Now, honey, let me walk you through this masterpiece:
1. Preheat that oven to 375°F. Get your pasta cooking in salted water until al dente.
1. While that’s happening, season your chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. In a large skillet (my favorite’s named Betty, but that’s another story 😂), heat olive oil and cook that chicken until golden brown.
1. Add garlic (I always add extra because, hello, garlic is life!), and sauté until fragrant.
Hey! If you’re loving this recipe so far, make sure to follow me on Newsbreak for more daily recipes that’ll make your family think you’ve secretly enrolled in culinary school!
1. Now, pour in that heavy cream (calories don’t count when it tastes this good!), add parmesan, and stir until it starts getting thick and creamy.
1. Toss in those gorgeous tomatoes and spinach. Watch that spinach wilt like my motivation to go to the gym!
1. Mix in your cooked pasta, transfer everything to a baking dish, top with mozzarella, and pop it in the oven for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
1. Garnish with fresh basil, and voilà! Watch your family’s eyes light up!
The result? A creamy, dreamy pasta bake that’ll have everyone asking for seconds (and thirds – looking at you, hubby!).
Y’all, I cannot stress enough how this dish has saved many of my “I forgot we had company coming” moments. It’s fancy enough for guests but easy enough for a regular Tuesday night when you’re wearing your comfy pants and favorite mom bun.
Don’t forget to follow me on Newsbreak for more recipes that’ll make you look like a kitchen goddess! Drop a comment below and let me know if this recipe was as big a hit at your house as it is at mine. Did you add your own twist? Spill the tea, sisters! And remember, cooking with love (and a little sass) makes everything taste better! 💁♀️✨
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to go hide the leftovers before my teenager discovers them! 😉🍝
