Creamy Gluten-Free Tuscan Chicken Pasta Bake
If you are looking for a comforting dinner that feels a little special yet is still simple enough for a weeknight, this Gluten-Free Tuscan Chicken Pasta Bake is the perfect recipe to try. Not only is it creamy and rich, but it is also packed with classic Tuscan flavors like garlic, Italian herbs, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach. As a result, every bite is full of flavor while still being incredibly satisfying.
In addition, this pasta bake is completely gluten free, which makes it perfect for families managing celiac disease or gluten sensitivities. Since my household is fully gluten free, I am always creating recipes that everyone can enjoy without sacrificing flavor, texture, or comfort.
Furthermore, this recipe is easy to prepare with simple ingredients you can find at almost any grocery store. While it feels like something you might order at an Italian restaurant, it actually comes together quickly right in your own kitchen. Even better, the creamy sauce coats the gluten-free pasta perfectly, while the chicken adds protein and the spinach adds freshness.
Another reason this dish is so popular is because it works well for many different occasions. For example, you can serve it as a cozy weeknight dinner, bring it to a family gathering, or even make it ahead of time for meal prep during the week. Because it reheats so well, it is just as delicious the next day.
Overall, if you are searching for a creamy gluten-free chicken pasta recipe, this Tuscan Chicken Pasta Bake is one you will want to make again and again.
Why You Will Love This Gluten-Free Tuscan Chicken Pasta Bake
First of all, this recipe uses simple pantry ingredients, making it easy to prepare anytime.
In addition, the creamy sauce, tender chicken, and melted cheese create the perfect balance of flavor and comfort.
At the same time, the sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasoning bring bold Tuscan flavor that makes the dish feel elevated.
Finally, this recipe is a family friendly gluten-free dinner that even those who do not eat gluten free will love.
Ingredients
Servings: 6
- 1 pound diced chicken breast
- 1 package gluten-free penne pasta
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 bunch fresh whole spinach
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, diced
- 1 shallot, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 cup parmesan cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven.
First, preheat your oven to 400°F so it is ready once the pasta mixture is assembled. - Cook the pasta.
Meanwhile, cook the gluten-free penne pasta according to the package directions. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it well and set it aside. - Cook the chicken.
Next, heat the avocado oil in a large pan over medium heat. Then add the diced chicken and cook it until the chicken is fully cooked and lightly browned. - Add the aromatics and seasoning.
After that, stir in the diced shallot and minced garlic. Then add the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Continue cooking for about 1 to 2 minutes until the mixture becomes fragrant. - Create the creamy sauce.
Once the aromatics are softened, add the diced sun-dried tomatoes and pour in the heavy cream. Stir everything together and allow the sauce to gently simmer so the flavors begin to combine. - Add the spinach.
Next, add the fresh spinach to the pan. As you stir, the spinach will slowly wilt down into the creamy sauce. - Combine the pasta and cheese.
Then add the cooked gluten-free pasta and toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the sauce. Afterward, stir in the parmesan and mozzarella cheese. - Bake the pasta.
Once everything is combined, cover the pan and place it in the oven. Bake for 30 minutes so the flavors can fully develop. - Finish baking uncovered.
After the initial baking time, remove the cover and continue baking for 10 more minutes. This allows the cheese to melt completely and become bubbly on top. - Serve and enjoy.
Finally, remove the pasta bake from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. Then scoop into bowls and enjoy this creamy Tuscan chicken pasta.
If You Do Not Have an Oven-Safe Skillet
If you do not have an oven-safe skillet, do not worry. Fortunately, this recipe can easily be made using a separate baking dish.
First, follow all of the steps above using a regular stovetop pan while cooking the chicken and making the creamy sauce. Then, once the pasta and cheese are mixed into the sauce, transfer everything to a large oven-safe baking dish.
Next, cover the baking dish and place it in the oven to bake for 30 minutes. After that, remove the cover and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
As a result, you will get the exact same creamy, delicious pasta bake.
Tips for the Best Tuscan Chicken Pasta Bake
First, choose a high quality gluten-free pasta that holds its shape well during baking.
Additionally, be sure to season the chicken generously, since this helps build flavor throughout the entire dish.
Furthermore, if you love extra cheesy pasta bakes, you can sprinkle additional mozzarella on top before the final bake.
Finally, allow the pasta bake to rest for a few minutes before serving, which helps the sauce thicken slightly.
Gluten-Free Tuscan Chicken Pasta Bake
Description
This Gluten-Free Tuscan Chicken Pasta Bake combines tender, seasoned chicken with a rich and creamy sauce, sweet and tangy sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and perfectly cooked gluten-free pasta for a comforting and satisfying family dinner. As the pasta bakes, the flavors come together beautifully, creating a creamy sauce that coats every bite while the cheese melts into a bubbly, golden topping. In addition, the Italian herbs, garlic, and shallots bring depth and warmth to the dish, making it feel both rustic and elevated at the same time.
Not only is this recipe packed with classic Tuscan-inspired flavors, but it is also incredibly easy to prepare using simple ingredients. As a result, it is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty and homemade without spending hours in the kitchen. Furthermore, this dish is naturally gluten free when made with gluten-free pasta, making it a wonderful option for families managing celiac disease or gluten sensitivities.
Whether you are serving it for a cozy family dinner, bringing it to a gathering, or preparing meals ahead for the week, this creamy Tuscan chicken pasta bake is a recipe everyone will look forward to. Because it reheats well and stays delicious the next day, it is just as perfect for leftovers as it is fresh from the oven. Ultimately, this gluten-free pasta bake delivers comforting flavor, creamy texture, and satisfying ingredients all in one easy and delicious dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Preheat the oven.
First, preheat your oven to 400°F so it is ready once the pasta mixture is assembled.
-
Cook the pasta.
Meanwhile, cook the gluten-free penne pasta according to the package directions. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it well and set it aside.
-
Cook the chicken.
Next, heat the avocado oil in a large pan over medium heat. Then add the diced chicken and cook it until the chicken is fully cooked and lightly browned.
-
Add the aromatics and seasoning.
After that, stir in the diced shallot and minced garlic. Then add the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Continue cooking for about 1 to 2 minutes until the mixture becomes fragrant.
-
Create the creamy sauce.
Once the aromatics are softened, add the diced sun-dried tomatoes and pour in the heavy cream. Stir everything together and allow the sauce to gently simmer so the flavors begin to combine.
-
Add the spinach.
Next, add the fresh spinach to the pan. As you stir, the spinach will slowly wilt down into the creamy sauce.
-
Combine the pasta and cheese.
Then add the cooked gluten-free pasta and toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the sauce. Afterward, stir in the parmesan and mozzarella cheese.
-
Bake the pasta.
Once everything is combined, cover the pan and place it in the oven. Bake for 30 minutes so the flavors can fully develop.
-
Finish baking uncovered.
After the initial baking time, remove the cover and continue baking for 10 more minutes. This allows the cheese to melt completely and become bubbly on top.
-
Serve and enjoy.
Finally, remove the pasta bake from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. Then scoop into bowls and enjoy this creamy Tuscan chicken pasta.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 670kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 39g60%
- Saturated Fat 21g105%
- Cholesterol 150mg50%
- Sodium 520mg22%
- Potassium 620mg18%
- Total Carbohydrate 42g15%
- Dietary Fiber 3g12%
- Sugars 4g
- Protein 36g72%
- Calcium 320 mg
- Iron 2.5 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Use a good gluten-free pasta.
Choose a gluten-free penne or pasta that holds its shape well during baking. Some gluten-free pastas can become soft when baked, so cooking it just until al dente will help it keep the best texture.
Do not overcook the pasta before baking.
Since the pasta will continue cooking in the oven, slightly undercooking it when boiling helps prevent it from becoming mushy.
Let the pasta bake rest before serving.
After removing the dish from the oven, allow it to rest for about 10 minutes. This helps the sauce thicken slightly and makes serving much easier.
Add extra cheese if desired.
If you love extra cheesy pasta bakes, sprinkle additional mozzarella or parmesan on top before the final uncovered bake.
Make it extra creamy.
For an even richer sauce, you can stir in an additional ¼ cup parmesan cheese into the cream sauce before baking.
Use fresh spinach.
Fresh spinach works best in this recipe because it wilts beautifully into the sauce and adds a fresh balance to the creamy pasta.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerator:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Reheating:
Reheat in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. If the pasta seems thick after refrigeration, add a small splash of cream or milk before reheating.
Freezing:
This pasta bake can also be frozen. Allow it to cool completely, then store in a freezer safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
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