Here’s a tasty recipe tried by Matthew & Amanda a few nights ago that was thoroughly enjoyed! They definitely plan to make it again!
Three-Cheese Chicken Penne Pasta Bake
2 cups penne pasta, uncooked
1 9oz package fresh spinach leaves
Heat oven to 375 degrees. Cook pasta as directed on package, adding spinach to the boiling water for the last 1 minute. When finished, drain pasta mixture; return to pan. Meanwhile:
1/2 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts OR thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 tsp. dried basil
1/4 tsp. salt
1 Tbsp. olive oil
Cook and stir chicken, basil, salt, and olive oil in large skillet (or heavy saucepan) on medium-high heat for 3 minutes. Add:
1 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes
1 15 oz can tomato sauce
1 tsp fresh minced garlic
1/2 tsp. onion powder
1/2 tsp oregano
1/2 tsp parsley
1/2 Tbsp (1 1/2 tsp) sugar
Bring mixture to a boil. Simmer for 3 minutes or until chicken is done. Stir in:
2 oz (1/4 of 8 oz package) cream cheese or Neufchatel cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Stir chicken mixture and pasta/spinach mixture together. Spoon into 2-quart or 8-inch square baking dish. Bake for 20 minutes. Remove from oven and sprinkle with:
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
2 Tbsp. grated Parmesan cheese
Bake for 3 more minutes. (Note: 1 14.5 oz jar of spaghetti sauce can be substituted for the tomato sauce, seasonings, and sugar in part 3 of the recipe.)
Serves 4.
