Chicken Alfredo Baked Penne with Spinach

If you’re craving a rich, comforting pasta dish that’s easy to make but feels indulgent, this Chicken Alfredo Baked Penne with Spinach is exactly what you need. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender chicken and fresh spinach, it’s the perfect meal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. The baked penne holds the sauce beautifully, giving you a slightly crispy top with gooey melted mozzarella underneath. This recipe hits all the right notes—simple to prepare, satisfying to eat, and packed with flavor.

Why It’s My Go-To

This dish has quickly become a staple in my kitchen because it combines ease and elegance effortlessly. The creamy sauce, made from scratch with heavy cream and Parmesan, clings to every piece of penne, ensuring each bite is indulgent. Adding fresh spinach not only adds a pop of color but also brings a mild earthiness that balances the richness. Plus, the baked top layer of mozzarella cheese creates that irresistible golden crust that’s hard to resist.

Whether you’re cooking for family or prepping for leftovers, this recipe is forgiving and adaptable. It’s a comforting crowd-pleaser that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. From the first creamy forkful to the last crispy bite, it’s no wonder this Chicken Alfredo Baked Penne with Spinach is a regular on my dinner rotation.

Ingredient Rundown

• 2 cups penne pasta – The perfect shape for holding onto the creamy sauce.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – For sautéing the chicken and garlic, adding a subtle fruity flavor.
• 1 pound chicken breast, diced – Tender and lean, it soaks up the Alfredo sauce beautifully.
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped – Adds freshness, color, and a nutritional boost.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – Essential for building depth and aroma in the sauce.
• 1 cup heavy cream – Creates the silky, rich base of the Alfredo sauce.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds sharp, nutty flavor and helps thicken the sauce.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that infuses the dish with classic Italian flavors.
• Salt and pepper to taste – To enhance and balance all the flavors.
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded – Melts perfectly on top for that irresistible cheesy crust.

Prep & Cook Tools

• Large pot – To boil the penne pasta until al dente.
• Large skillet – For sautéing the chicken, garlic, and spinach.
• Mixing bowl – To combine the cooked pasta with sauce and other ingredients.
• Baking dish (9×13 inch) – To bake the assembled penne and cheese until bubbly and golden.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – For stirring and mixing ingredients gently.
• Measuring cups and spoons – For precise ingredient portions.

Chicken Alfredo Baked Penne with Spinach: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 2 cups of penne pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually about 9-11 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken and Garlic

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken breast and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Add 3 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Wilt the Spinach

Add 2 cups of chopped fresh spinach to the skillet. Stir for 2-3 minutes until the spinach has wilted and combined well with the chicken and garlic mixture.

Step 4: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce

Reduce heat to medium-low. Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and stir well. Sprinkle in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Stir constantly until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Transfer the cooked penne into the skillet with the sauce, chicken, and spinach. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy sauce.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pour the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set.

Make It Fit Your Plan

• For a lighter twist, swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a creamy plant-based milk alternative.
• Try adding mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for extra texture and flavor variations.
• Use whole wheat or gluten-free penne to suit your dietary needs.
• Incorporate some pine nuts or walnuts on top before baking for a delightful crunch.
• Explore more creamy pasta options like Creamy Spinach And Artichoke Pasta for another vibrant green pasta dish.

Steer Clear of These

• Overcooking the pasta – It should be al dente to avoid mushy baked pasta.
• Using pre-shredded cheese with additives – Freshly shredded mozzarella melts better and creates a smoother crust.
• Skipping seasoning – Salt and pepper enhance the flavors dramatically, so don’t overlook them.
• Ignoring the sauce thickness – If your Alfredo sauce is too thin, it won’t coat the pasta well; be sure to simmer it gently until slightly thickened.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

This Chicken Alfredo Baked Penne with Spinach keeps well refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through or microwave individual portions with a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.

For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe dish for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Avoid microwaving straight from frozen to prevent uneven heating.

Quick Q&A

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs add a bit more richness and stay juicy, but make sure to dice them into bite-sized pieces and cook thoroughly before combining with the sauce.

What if I don’t have fresh spinach?

Frozen spinach works well, too. Just thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before adding it to the skillet to avoid watery sauce.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, omit the chicken and add extra vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini. You might also want to add more cheese or a plant-based protein alternative.

Is there a way to make this dish less heavy?

Try substituting the heavy cream with a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt or using a lighter cheese for the topping. Check out this Lighter Cheesy Pasta Bake for inspiration on how to lighten up cheesy pasta dishes.

Explore More

• Creamy Spinach And Artichoke Pasta – Another creamy, veggie-packed pasta dish that’s perfect for spinach lovers.
• Lighter Cheesy Pasta Bake – A great alternative when you want cheesy comfort without the extra calories.
• Pumpkin Sage Alfredo With Sausage – For a seasonal twist on creamy pasta, this recipe adds warm flavors and a unique sauce.

Ready, Set, Cook

Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to enjoy a delightful meal that brings together creamy Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, fresh spinach, and perfectly baked penne pasta. This dish is sure to satisfy your cravings and impress anyone at your dinner table. Whether it’s a family night or meal prep for the week, this Chicken Alfredo Baked Penne with Spinach will quickly become a favorite.

Rich, comforting, and incredibly delicious—why wait? Let’s get cooking and enjoy every cheesy, creamy bite!

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