Easy Chicken Spinach and Tomato Pasta Bake Recipe
A Chicken Spinach and Tomato Pasta Bake is one of those comforting meals that’s quick to prepare, full of flavor, and guaranteed to please everyone at the dinner table. Combining the rich, savory taste of chicken with the freshness of spinach, the sweetness of tomatoes, and the heartiness of pasta, this dish checks all the boxes: it’s satisfying, easy to make, and versatile enough to work with whatever ingredients you have on hand.
Whether you’re preparing dinner for the family or a meal prep for the week, this baked pasta is an ideal solution. The chicken provides a lean source of protein, while the spinach adds a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals, and the tomato sauce offers a rich, savory base. Plus, the gooey, melted cheese on top brings it all together into a perfect comfort food experience.
This recipe is customizable, so you can add your favorite ingredients, adjust the seasonings to your preference, and even swap the pasta or protein based on dietary needs. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some vegetables for picky eaters!
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature will ensure that the pasta bake cooks through evenly, with the top becoming golden and bubbly.
2. Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta (about 12 oz) and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Pro Tip: To prevent the pasta from sticking together, drizzle a little olive oil over it once drained.
3. Cook the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breast pieces and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is no longer pink and has browned slightly on the outside.
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature— it should reach 165°F (75°C) to be fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Pro Tip: For added flavor, season the chicken with a little garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika before cooking.
4. Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed and sauté the onion over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
5. Prepare the Tomato Sauce
Add the canned diced tomatoes (or fresh tomatoes), marinara sauce, and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Pro Tip: You can also use a blender to puree the tomatoes for a smoother sauce, or leave them chunky for more texture.
6. Add the Spinach
Stir in the chopped spinach and let it wilt into the sauce. This should take 1-2 minutes, as spinach wilts quickly. Once the spinach is wilted, return the cooked chicken to the pan and stir everything together.
7. Combine with Pasta
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the sauce mixture. Stir well to ensure that the pasta is fully coated with the sauce, chicken, and spinach.
8. Assemble the Pasta Bake
Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly and top with a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.
9. Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on top.
10. Garnish and Serve
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Serve the chicken spinach and tomato pasta bake warm with a side salad or garlic bread for the perfect meal.
Tips for Success:
- Chicken Options: If you’re pressed for time, you can use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking fresh chicken. Just shred the rotisserie chicken and add it to the sauce at the same point.
- Pasta Shape: Feel free to experiment with different shapes of pasta. Penne, rotini, rigatoni, or fusilli work best because they hold the sauce well.
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and add more vegetables, like zucchini, mushrooms, or eggplant. You could also use tofu or tempeh for protein.
- Extra Creaminess: Add a bit of cream cheese or ricotta to the sauce mixture for extra richness and creaminess.
- Make it Gluten-Free: If you’re following a gluten-free diet, simply use gluten-free pasta. Ensure that the marinara sauce and chicken broth are also gluten-free.
- Leftovers: This pasta bake makes great leftovers and can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven. It also freezes well! You can freeze the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes! If you’re using frozen spinach, make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess moisture before adding it to the sauce.
Can I add more vegetables to the pasta bake?
Absolutely! You can add any of your favorite vegetables to this dish. Consider adding mushrooms, zucchini, bell peppers, or broccoli for more variety and nutrients.
Can I make this pasta bake ahead of time?
Yes, this dish can be made ahead. You can prepare the entire bake in advance, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can assemble it, freeze it, and bake it directly from the freezer—just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
Can I make this without cheese?
If you’re dairy-free or just prefer a lighter version, you can skip the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese substitute. The dish will still be flavorful, but the cheese does contribute to the creamy, comforting texture.
What can I serve with Chicken Spinach and Tomato Pasta Bake?
This dish is already quite filling, but it pairs wonderfully with a light side salad or some crispy garlic bread. You can also serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple green vegetable, like steamed broccoli or sautéed green beans.
Variations and Customizations
One of the best parts about this Chicken Spinach and Tomato Pasta Bake is how easy it is to customize based on your preferences or what you have in your pantry. Here are a few variations to consider:
1. Mediterranean Twist:
Add a Mediterranean flair by incorporating ingredients like kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, feta cheese, and a sprinkle of oregano. These ingredients bring a salty, tangy kick to the dish, and the creamy feta complements the tomato sauce beautifully.
2. Spicy Chicken Spinach Bake:
For those who like a bit of heat, add jalapeños, serrano peppers, or cayenne pepper to the sauce. You could also sprinkle a bit of hot sauce on top before baking for an added kick.
3. Italian Sausage and Spinach Pasta Bake:
Swap out the chicken for Italian sausage. Brown the sausage before adding it to the sauce, and the combination of sausage with the tomatoes and spinach will give the dish an incredible depth of flavor.
4. Low-Carb Version:
For a lower-carb option, swap the pasta for zucchini noodles (zoodles) or spaghetti squash. These substitutes work perfectly in the sauce and will reduce the carb count significantly while still giving you a satisfying meal.
5. Make it Creamy:
For a richer, creamier texture, stir in a cup of heavy cream or half-and-half into the sauce mixture. The cream adds an indulgent, velvety finish to the bake.
6. Add Pesto:
Add a spoonful or two of pesto to the sauce for a burst of herby, garlicky flavor. You can also drizzle pesto over the top of the pasta bake before serving.
The Easy Chicken Spinach and Tomato Pasta Bake is the perfect recipe for a busy weeknight dinner or a meal prep dish that will last you throughout the week. It’s quick, flavorful, and packed with protein and vegetables—making it both satisfying and nutritious. The beauty of this dish is in its versatility; you can adjust the flavors, add more vegetables, or experiment with different cheeses to suit your personal taste. Plus, it’s a great way to get your family or guests to eat their greens without even realizing it!
So, gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and enjoy this comforting, cheesy, and healthy pasta bake that’s bound to become a new family favorite.
Dietary Modifications and Customization:
This recipe is highly adaptable, allowing for a variety of dietary modifications to suit different needs and preferences. Below are some ideas for creating a dish that fits your specific dietary requirements.
For a Low-Carb or Keto Diet:
- Pasta Substitute: The traditional pasta can be replaced with zucchini noodles (zoodles), spaghetti squash, or even shirataki noodles (a low-carb, high-fiber noodle alternative). Zoodles will keep the dish light while maintaining that “pasta bake” texture.
- Add Extra Cheese: You can add more cheese to make the dish more indulgent without increasing the carbs.
- Creamy Sauce: Replace the marinara sauce with a creamy Alfredo-style sauce made from heavy cream and parmesan. This will add richness and keep it more in line with keto guidelines.
For a Gluten-Free Diet:
- Pasta Options: Simply swap out the traditional pasta for a gluten-free pasta. There are many high-quality gluten-free pasta options available in most grocery stores that mimic the texture and taste of regular pasta.
- Check Sauces and Broths: Be sure to select gluten-free marinara sauce (many store-bought varieties are gluten-free, but always check the label) and gluten-free chicken broth.
- Add More Veggies: To bulk up the dish, consider adding extra vegetables, such as roasted sweet potatoes, bell peppers, or carrots.
For a Dairy-Free or Vegan Version:
- Dairy-Free Cheese: For a dairy-free or vegan version, substitute the cheese with a plant-based cheese (such as almond-based mozzarella or cashew cheese). Many brands offer vegan mozzarella that melts well and can be used in place of dairy cheese.
- Non-Dairy Milk: For a creamier base, use coconut milk or cashew milk instead of regular cream. This will still give a rich texture but without any dairy.
- Replace Chicken with Tofu: Swap the chicken with extra-firm tofu or another plant-based protein. Sauté the tofu cubes in olive oil to give them a crispy texture before adding them to the sauce.
For a Vegetarian Version:
- Add More Veggies: Swap out the chicken for additional vegetables such as mushrooms, eggplant, or bell peppers. You could also add some cooked lentils for a protein-packed option.
- Ricotta Cheese: For a creamy, vegetarian twist, consider adding ricotta cheese along with the mozzarella for a more lasagna-like texture.
For a Paleo Diet:
- Pasta Swap: Replace the pasta with zucchini noodles or butternut squash noodles.
- No Dairy: Omit the cheese altogether or replace it with a non-dairy option like nut-based cheese.
Why This Recipe Works:
This Chicken Spinach and Tomato Pasta Bake recipe stands out for several reasons:
- Balance of Flavors and Textures: The combination of tender chicken, rich tomato sauce, fresh spinach, and gooey melted cheese creates a balanced dish with depth of flavor. The pasta absorbs the sauce and becomes soft and comforting, while the crispy cheese topping adds a satisfying crunch.
- Nutritional Powerhouse: Not only is this dish hearty and comforting, but it also offers an impressive nutritional profile. The chicken provides lean protein, the spinach is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and fiber, and the tomato sauce gives you a dose of antioxidants. It’s a well-rounded meal in one.
- Time-Saving: The recipe is simple to prepare, and with just one skillet and one baking dish required, there’s minimal cleanup. You can easily throw this together in 30-45 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner solution.
- Customizable: This recipe can be tailored to suit almost any dietary restriction or preference. Whether you’re low-carb, dairy-free, or vegetarian, you can make it your own without sacrificing flavor or texture.
- Perfect for Leftovers: This pasta bake is one of those meals that gets even better the next day. The flavors have time to meld and deepen, and it’s an excellent choice for meal prepping. Just reheat and enjoy a quick, flavorful meal with minimal effort.
Ideas for Adding More Flavor:
If you want to elevate the flavor of your Chicken Spinach and Tomato Pasta Bake even further, consider incorporating any of these seasonings and ingredients:
- Fresh Herbs: Adding a handful of fresh basil or oregano to the dish just before serving will add a bright, aromatic punch that complements the rich flavors of the pasta and sauce.
- Balsamic Vinegar: A drizzle of balsamic vinegar over the top after baking can add a tangy, slightly sweet finish to the dish. It pairs wonderfully with the tomatoes and spinach.
- Garlic Bread Crumbs: For a crunchy topping, sprinkle some garlic breadcrumbs or panko breadcrumbs over the cheese before baking. This will create an extra layer of texture that’s delightful when combined with the creamy cheese.
- Lemon Zest: A small amount of lemon zest sprinkled on top right before serving can brighten the flavors of the dish and add a refreshing citrusy note.
- Pine Nuts or Walnuts: Toasted pine nuts or walnuts can be sprinkled over the top of the pasta bake just before serving. Their crunch and subtle nutty flavor will add another dimension to the dish.
- Chili Flakes or Hot Sauce: For some extra heat, sprinkle some chili flakes on top of the finished dish, or drizzle your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
The Chicken Spinach and Tomato Pasta Bake is not only a simple, quick, and satisfying meal, but it’s also one that you can adapt to fit your tastes, dietary needs, and the ingredients you have on hand. It’s a perfect dinner for busy families, meal prep enthusiasts, or anyone looking to enjoy a flavorful and comforting dish.
Whether you make it your own with variations like adding more veggies, swapping the protein, or experimenting with different cheeses, this recipe will always be a family-friendly classic that can be made in less than an hour. Best of all, it’s flexible enough to keep on hand for busy weeknights, and the leftovers make for a convenient and delicious meal the next day.
So, next time you’re looking for a hearty, wholesome meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor, give this Chicken Spinach and Tomato Pasta Bake a try—it’s sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen.
Easy Chicken Spinach and Tomato Pasta Bake Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb or 450g), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained (or use fresh tomatoes if preferred)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or rotini works well)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature will ensure that the pasta bake cooks through evenly, with the top becoming golden and bubbly.
2. Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta (about 12 oz) and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Pro Tip: To prevent the pasta from sticking together, drizzle a little olive oil over it once drained.
3. Cook the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breast pieces and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is no longer pink and has browned slightly on the outside.
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature— it should reach 165°F (75°C) to be fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Pro Tip: For added flavor, season the chicken with a little garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika before cooking.
4. Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed and sauté the onion over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
5. Prepare the Tomato Sauce
Add the canned diced tomatoes (or fresh tomatoes), marinara sauce, and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Pro Tip: You can also use a blender to puree the tomatoes for a smoother sauce, or leave them chunky for more texture.
6. Add the Spinach
Stir in the chopped spinach and let it wilt into the sauce. This should take 1-2 minutes, as spinach wilts quickly. Once the spinach is wilted, return the cooked chicken to the pan and stir everything together.
7. Combine with Pasta
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the sauce mixture. Stir well to ensure that the pasta is fully coated with the sauce, chicken, and spinach.
8. Assemble the Pasta Bake
Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly and top with a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.
9. Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on top.
10. Garnish and Serve
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Serve the chicken spinach and tomato pasta bake warm with a side salad or garlic bread for the perfect meal.
Notes
General Tips for Success:
- Even Cooking of Chicken: When cooking the chicken, make sure to cut the pieces into even, bite-sized chunks so that they cook uniformly. If the chicken is cut into uneven pieces, some parts may be overcooked while others may remain undercooked.
- Preventing Soggy Pasta: To avoid the pasta becoming mushy or too watery in the bake, make sure to cook it al dente (slightly firm to the bite). The pasta will continue to absorb liquid as it bakes, so slightly undercooking it helps keep the texture intact.
- Cheese for the Best Melt: For the best melt and texture, use whole milk mozzarella for the topping. Low-moisture mozzarella typically gives the best texture in baked dishes. Combining mozzarella with a sharp, hard cheese like Parmesan adds both creaminess and depth of flavor.
- Layering the Ingredients: If you want a more even distribution of cheese throughout the dish, you can stir some shredded mozzarella into the pasta mixture before placing it in the baking dish. This ensures that every bite is cheesy, not just the top.
- Resting the Dish: After removing the pasta bake from the oven, let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly, making it easier to serve and preventing a watery mess when you dish it out.
Ingredient Substitutions:
- Chicken:
- Rotisserie Chicken: Great for a quicker version. Shred it and add it to the sauce at the same stage as the cooked chicken.
- Turkey: Ground turkey can be used as an alternative to chicken breast for a leaner option.
- Vegetarian Option: Use tofu, tempeh, or lentils as a plant-based alternative to chicken. Tofu works best if pressed and cooked to get a crispy texture.
- Pasta:
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta (like rice or corn-based pasta) to make the dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. Make sure to cook it just to al dente to prevent it from becoming too soft.
- Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles): A great low-carb, keto alternative. Just toss them in with the sauce and cheese before baking. Keep in mind that zucchini noodles release water, so it's a good idea to briefly sauté them beforehand to remove excess moisture.
- Cheese:
- Dairy-Free: Use plant-based cheeses like almond-based mozzarella or cashew cheese. If you're dairy-free, try a blend of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
- Ricotta: For a richer, creamier texture, consider adding some ricotta cheese to the pasta mixture. It will add extra creaminess and help balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Vegetables:
- Frozen Spinach: If you don't have fresh spinach, frozen spinach works too. Just be sure to thaw and drain it to get rid of excess moisture.
- Extra Veggies: Feel free to add more veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, or eggplant to bulk up the dish. Just sauté them first to release any excess moisture before adding them to the pasta and sauce.
Flavor Enhancements:
- Herb Boost: Adding fresh basil, oregano, or thyme as a garnish after baking will enhance the freshness of the dish. Fresh herbs can elevate the overall flavor and offer a vibrant contrast to the rich, cheesy topping.
- Spicy Kick: If you like heat, consider adding finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce. For a more controlled heat, sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes over the top just before serving.
- Balsamic Vinegar: A drizzle of balsamic vinegar or balsamic glaze over the finished dish can add a tangy-sweet contrast to the savory flavors of the pasta bake.
- Garlic and Onion: For extra flavor, sauté an extra clove of garlic and half an onion to add depth to the sauce. The combination of these aromatics creates a flavorful foundation that complements the richness of the chicken and cheese.
Serving Suggestions:
- Side Salad: Pair this pasta bake with a light, refreshing side salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or a balsamic glaze to balance the richness of the dish. A simple salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber works well.
- Garlic Bread: Serve with crispy garlic bread or a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious tomato sauce.
- Steamed Vegetables: Roasted or steamed green vegetables, such as broccoli, green beans, or asparagus, make an excellent side dish and add a nice contrast to the rich pasta bake.
- Wine Pairing: Pair this dish with a glass of red wine, such as Chianti, Merlot, or Cabernet Sauvignon, which complement the richness of the chicken, spinach, and cheese.
Make-Ahead Instructions:
This dish is ideal for make-ahead meals. Here’s how to prepare it in advance:
- Prepare and Assemble: You can assemble the entire dish up to 24 hours in advance. Prepare the pasta, chicken, and sauce, and layer it in the baking dish with cheese on top. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate.
- Freezing: If you want to freeze the pasta bake, assemble it in a freezer-safe container (without baking it), cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and then aluminum foil. Label it with the date, and it will last for up to 3 months in the freezer. To bake from frozen, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 45-50 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.
Creative Variations:
- Cheesy Spinach and Artichoke Bake: Add artichoke hearts (canned or jarred) to the sauce for a cheesy, spinach-artichoke-inspired pasta bake. You could also add a spoonful of cream cheese for extra creaminess.
- Chicken Alfredo Spinach Bake: Instead of the tomato-based sauce, try using a creamy Alfredo sauce. You can make your own from butter, heavy cream, garlic, and parmesan, or use a store-bought version for convenience.
- Margarita Twist: Turn this dish into a margarita-style pasta bake by adding fresh mozzarella balls and a few basil leaves, then finishing with a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
- Stuffed Pasta Bake: For a more decadent variation, stuff large pasta shells (like jumbo shells) with the chicken, spinach, and cheese mixture before baking it all together. This gives each serving a satisfying bite-sized surprise.
Notes on Pasta Baking Time:
- Check Early: Ovens can vary in temperature, so start checking the bake around the 15-20 minute mark. If the cheese is golden and bubbly, it’s ready to come out. If you want a crispier top, leave it in for a few extra minutes, but be careful not to overbake as it could dry out.
- Covering the Dish: If you notice that the cheese is browning too quickly but the dish isn’t fully heated through, cover the baking dish with foil for the first 15 minutes of baking and then uncover it for the remaining time to allow the cheese to melt and become golden.