Description
A creamy and cheesy pasta bake with tender garlic-parmesan chicken, rich coconut milk or heavy cream, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
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3 thin-sliced chicken breasts
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1 teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
For the Sauce:
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter
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4 garlic cloves, minced
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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2 tablespoons flour, cornstarch, or arrowroot powder
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1 can of full-fat coconut milk or 1 ½ cups heavy cream
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½ teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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¼–½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
For the Pasta:
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1 (16 ounce) package of penne
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½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
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5 ounces baby spinach
Instructions
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Prepare the Chicken:
Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked (about 6–7 minutes per side). Slice into strips or cubes. Set aside. -
Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 1 minute). Stir in lemon juice, then sprinkle flour (or cornstarch/arrowroot powder) over the mixture and whisk to combine. Gradually add the coconut milk (or heavy cream), whisking constantly. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the sauce thickens. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. -
Cook the Pasta:
Cook penne according to package instructions, drain, and return to the pot. -
Combine the Ingredients:
Add the chicken, spinach, and sauce to the cooked pasta, stirring to combine. Once the spinach wilts, sprinkle in grated Parmesan cheese and mix until the cheese melts and everything is evenly coated. -
Bake the Pasta:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top. -
Serve:
Let the dish cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your heat preference.
You can substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs for a juicier dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking, Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian-American