Creamy Spinach Chicken Alfredo Bake

Name: Creamy Spinach Chicken Alfredo Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken breast, diced; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 2 cups Alfredo sauce; 3 cups cooked pasta (penne or rigatoni); 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil

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I love how this Creamy Spinach Chicken Alfredo Bake turns a classic dish into a decadent family favorite! The combination of tender chicken, creamy Alfredo sauce, and fresh spinach creates a comforting meal that's perfect for any occasion. I've made this dish countless times, and it's always a hit. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special gathering, it never fails to impress. Plus, it's simple to prepare and can be easily made ahead of time, making dinner stress-free and enjoyable.

Created by

Madison Cole

Last updated on 2026-02-24T01:21:36.704Z

When I first made this dish, I was blown away by the rich flavors and creamy texture. I experimented with different vegetables and landed on fresh spinach, which gives a delightful freshness that balances the heaviness of the Alfredo sauce. The chicken not only adds protein but also ensures the bake remains hearty.

A tip that I believe makes a difference is baking the dish covered for the first 20 minutes; this helps the chicken cook through while keeping everything moist. I love serving this dish with a side salad for a complete meal!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, creamy Alfredo sauce that clings to every bite
Fresh spinach adds a vibrant color and nutrition boost
Easy to prepare ahead of time for stress-free dinners

Ingredient Insights

The choice of pasta for this Creamy Spinach Chicken Alfredo Bake can greatly impact the texture and overall enjoyment of the dish. I recommend using penne or rigatoni, as their hollow shapes hold onto the Alfredo sauce beautifully, ensuring that every bite is coated with creaminess. If you want to make a gluten-free version, consider using gluten-free pasta, which substitutes easily in this recipe with minimal change to cooking times.

Using fresh spinach not only adds a nutritional boost but also enhances the dish's color and flavor. When adding it to the mixture, be sure to chop it finely to ensure even distribution throughout the bake. If you're in a pinch and don't have fresh spinach, you can substitute it with frozen spinach; just be sure to squeeze out any excess water before incorporating it into the dish to avoid a watery bake.

Tips for Perfect Baking

When assembling the bake, it's crucial to combine the ingredients evenly. This ensures that the chicken, spinach, and sauce are distributed throughout the pasta, preventing any dry bites. Additionally, consider letting the mixture sit for about 10 minutes before baking—it allows the flavors to marry together, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

Baking covered for the first part of the time allows the ingredients to steam, keeping the chicken juicy and the pasta moist. Make sure to keep an eye on the dish as it bakes uncovered; the cheese should melt to a bubbly, golden perfection. If you find the top isn't browning, you can finish it under the broiler for an extra 1-2 minutes for that appealing golden crust. Just monitor closely to avoid burning!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Creamy Spinach Chicken Alfredo Bake is an ideal candidate for meal prep. You can prepare the entire dish a day ahead, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it goes straight from the fridge to the oven to heat through thoroughly.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days and can also be frozen for up to a month. When reheating, consider adding a splash of cream or milk to the dish to help revive the creamy texture that might have been lost during storage. This dish is comforting when enjoyed warm and still maintains its flavor profile after reheating.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious bake:

Ingredients

1 pound chicken breast, diced
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
2 cups Alfredo sauce
3 cups cooked pasta (penne or rigatoni)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you can start assembling the dish!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your creamy bake:

Prepare Ingredients

In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Then add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until no longer pink.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta, sautéed chicken, chopped spinach, and Alfredo sauce until well combined.

Assemble the Bake

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly on top.

Bake

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delightful meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding some Italian herbs or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little kick. This dish also freezes well, so you can enjoy leftovers later!

Serving Suggestions

Pair this Creamy Spinach Chicken Alfredo Bake with a light green salad dressed in vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. The bright acidity from the dressing complements the creaminess beautifully. Additionally, some garlic bread on the side adds great texture to your meal; it’s perfect for scooping up any leftover Alfredo sauce on your plate.

For a festive touch, consider garnishing with fresh parsley or basil before serving. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a fresh layer of flavor that contrasts with the richness of the cheese and sauce. You can also sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese on top just before serving for an added savory kick.

Dietary Modifications

If you’re looking to lighten the dish, you can substitute the Alfredo sauce with a light or homemade version that uses low-fat cream cheese and milk. This will maintain a creamy consistency without sacrificing flavor. Additionally, leaner cuts of chicken or even grilled chicken could be alternatives for a healthier protein option.

For a vegetarian version, you can replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or diced eggplant, which will still deliver a hearty texture. You can also amp up the vegetable content by adding bell peppers, zucchini, or even sundried tomatoes that bring a new dimension to the flavor profile while keeping the dish satisfying.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, frozen spinach can be used, but make sure to thaw and squeeze out the excess moisture before adding it to the dish.

→ What pasta works best for this recipe?

Penne or rigatoni are great choices as their shapes hold the sauce well.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just omit the chicken and consider adding more vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.