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Chicken Alfredo Casserole with Spinach and Pesto

Chicken Alfredo Casserole with Spinach and Pesto
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This Chicken Alfredo Casserole with Spinach and Pesto is a creamy, flavorful, and comforting dish that combines tender chicken, rich Alfredo sauce, fresh spinach, and basil pesto. Perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings, it is quick to prepare, nutritious, and easily customizable to suit various tastes and dietary needs.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 2–3 chicken breasts, cooked and shredded

Pasta

  • 12 oz penne pasta

Sauces & Dairy

  • 2 cups Alfredo sauce
  • 1/2 cup basil pesto
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for topping

Vegetables

  • 4 cups fresh spinach
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

Oils & Seasonings

  • 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook them thoroughly by either sautéing in a pan or baking in the oven. Once cooled, shred or dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces for even distribution in the casserole.
  2. Cook the Pasta: Boil penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to prevent overcooking while you prepare the sauce and sauté vegetables.
  3. Sauté Aromatics and Spinach: Heat olive oil or butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add finely chopped garlic and onion and sauté until softened and fragrant. Add fresh spinach and cook until wilted, stirring occasionally to evenly incorporate flavors.
  4. Mix the Alfredo Sauce and Pesto: In a bowl, combine the creamy Alfredo sauce with the basil pesto. Stir well to blend the herbaceous and garlicky notes with the rich, cheesy sauce.
  5. Combine All Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, gently fold together the cooked penne pasta, shredded chicken, sautéed spinach mixture, and the Alfredo-pesto sauce. Stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese for added depth.
  6. Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Evenly sprinkle shredded mozzarella and additional Parmesan cheese on top to create a golden, bubbly crust when baked.
  7. Bake to Perfection: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Remove from oven and let rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • Use fresh spinach and pesto for the best flavor and brightness.
  • Do not overcook the pasta; it should be slightly under al dente as it will continue cooking in the oven.
  • Adjust the amount of pesto to ensure it complements but does not overpower the Alfredo sauce.
  • Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving to help it set and hold together.
  • Optionally, sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan on top before baking for added crunch.

Nutrition

Keywords: Chicken Alfredo Casserole, Spinach, Pesto, Creamy Chicken Bake, Italian Casserole, Comfort Food, Easy Dinner, Family Recipe

Find it online: https://ninagourmet.com/chicken-alfredo-casserole-with-spinach-and-pesto/