Creamy Spinach & Chicken Pasta Bake

As seen in our latest Instagram reel

This Creamy Spinach & Chicken Pasta Bake blew up in our latest reel on @lilyscravekitchen_ — tender chicken, creamy sauce, and cheesy pasta baked until golden and bubbling. The kind of comfort food that makes everyone excited for dinner.

Juicy chicken and tender pasta are tossed with fresh spinach in a rich, velvety garlic cream sauce, then finished with a generous layer of melted cheese. Every forkful is creamy, savory, and satisfying — perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or cozy evenings when you crave something homemade and delicious.

Why you’ll love them

34g protein per serving in the ultimate comfort bake
Golden, bubbly cheese top with a creamy center
Feeds a crowd and reheats beautifully

Ingredients

12 oz (340g) short pasta (penne or rigatoni)
1½ lb (700g) chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces
4 cups fresh spinach
2 cups heavy cream
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup grated parmesan, divided
1½ cups shredded mozzarella
½ cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tbsp butter, plus olive oil
Salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, to taste

Instructions

Cook the pasta. Boil the pasta in salted water until just shy of al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
Sear the chicken. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sear in olive oil over medium-high heat until golden and cooked through, about 6 minutes. Set aside.
Make the sauce. In the same pan, melt the butter, sauté the garlic 30 seconds, then pour in the cream. Simmer 2–3 minutes, then whisk in half the parmesan until smooth. Stir in the spinach until just wilted.
Assemble. Toss the pasta, chicken, and sauce together (loosen with pasta water if needed). Transfer to a buttered baking dish.
Top and bake. Shower with mozzarella, remaining parmesan, and panko. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes until golden and bubbling.
Rest and serve. Let stand 10 minutes so the sauce sets, then serve.

Tips

Undercook the pasta slightly — it finishes in the oven and stays perfect.
Don’t skip the rest; the sauce thickens as it stands.
Swap in rotisserie chicken to cut 15 minutes off the prep.

Nutrition

Estimated per serving: ~470 kcal | ~34g protein | ~21g fat | ~38g carbs

Would you add extra cheese or keep it classic? Follow @lilyscravekitchen_ on Instagram for the reel and more easy recipes.