Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and set aside.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta for 2 minutes less than package directions, about 8 minutes for most brands, so it stays just under al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the diced chicken with salt and pepper and cook in a single layer for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly golden and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and stir for about 1 minute until fragrant and just golden. Do not let it brown.
- Pour in the heavy cream and whole milk, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Stir in the basil pesto and 3/4 cup Parmesan until smooth and fully melted. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Add the cooked pasta, sauteed chicken, and baby spinach to the skillet. Toss until evenly coated and the spinach just begins to wilt, about 1 minute.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle the mozzarella and remaining 1/4 cup Parmesan over the top.
- Bake uncovered for 20 to 22 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbling. Let rest for 5 minutes before scooping and serving.
Notes
Pasta shape: Penne, rigatoni, fusilli, or ziti all work well. Chicken shortcut: Use rotisserie or leftover roast chicken to skip the saute step. Vegetarian: Omit chicken and double the spinach or add sauteed mushrooms. Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta and adjust cook time per package. Make ahead: Assemble, cover, and refrigerate up to 1 day ahead. Bake just before serving. Freezer meal: Assemble unbaked, wrap tightly, and freeze up to 3 months. Bake from frozen at 375 degrees F covered with foil for an extra 20 to 25 minutes. Storage: Refrigerate leftovers covered for up to 4 days. Reheat in microwave in 60-second intervals or covered in oven at 350 degrees F until warmed through.
