Healthy Three-Cheese Chicken Penne Pasta Bake

This Healthy Three-Cheese Chicken Penne Pasta Bake is a wholesome, satisfying dish that brings comfort food to a new, healthier level. Featuring multi-grain penne, tender chicken, and fresh spinach, this casserole is layered with a rich blend of cheeses, including Neufchatel, part-skim mozzarella, and Parmesan, all tied together with a robust tomato sauce. With its balance of lean protein, whole grains, and vegetables, this dish makes for a nutritious weeknight dinner that the whole family will love.

Ingredients:

• Pasta and Chicken:
• 1 1/2 cups multi-grain penne pasta, uncooked
• 9 oz fresh spinach leaves
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
• 1 tsp dried basil leaves
• 1 (14.5 oz) jar spaghetti sauce
• 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
• Cheese Blend:
• 2 oz Neufchatel cheese (or substitute cream cheese), cubed
• 1 cup shredded 2% milk mozzarella cheese, divided
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

1. Cook Pasta and Spinach:

• Cook the multi-grain penne pasta according to the package directions. During the last minute of cooking, add the fresh spinach leaves to the boiling water to quickly wilt them. Drain and set aside.

1. Prepare Chicken and Sauce:

• In a large nonstick skillet sprayed with cooking spray, cook the bite-sized chicken pieces and dried basil over medium-high heat for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Add the minced garlic, jar of spaghetti sauce, and drained diced tomatoes to the skillet. Stir to combine, and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 3 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through.
• Stir in the cubed Neufchatel cheese until melted and well combined, creating a creamy sauce.

1. Combine and Assemble:

• Return the drained pasta and spinach mixture to the pot. Add the chicken and sauce mixture to the pasta and gently stir until evenly coated.
• Stir in 1/2 cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese.

1. Bake:

• Spoon the pasta mixture into a 2-quart casserole dish or an 8-inch square baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
• Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.

1. Add Toppings and Finish Baking:

• Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese on top.
• Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

1. Serve:

• Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Enjoy this healthy, cheesy pasta bake hot, with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Tips:

• Neufchatel Cheese: Neufchatel cheese is a great lower-fat alternative to cream cheese. It adds creaminess without the extra calories, but if you prefer, you can substitute regular cream cheese.
• Pasta: Multi-grain penne pasta not only provides a heartier texture but also adds more fiber and nutrients compared to regular pasta. If you’re gluten-free, feel free to use a gluten-free pasta variety.
• Spinach: Adding the spinach at the end of the pasta cooking process helps retain its bright green color and nutritional value. You can also substitute with other leafy greens like kale or arugula.
• Cheese: For a deeper flavor, you can swap out the mozzarella with a blend of mozzarella and sharp cheddar or provolone.
• Storage: This dish stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it a great option for meal prep. Simply reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

This Healthy Three-Cheese Chicken Penne Pasta Bake is a deliciously satisfying dish that doesn’t compromise on taste or nutrition. It’s a perfect choice for a cozy, wholesome dinner that’s both comforting and nourishing.