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Chicken Alfredo Casserole with Spinach and Pesto

Chicken Alfredo Casserole with Spinach and Pesto
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Chicken Alfredo Casserole with Spinach and Pesto is a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful dish combining tender chicken, fresh spinach, and vibrant pesto with rich Alfredo sauce and melted cheeses. Perfect for an effortless comfort meal that’s family-friendly, make-ahead, and packed with balanced textures and tastes.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken breasts

Pasta

  • 8 ounces fettuccine pasta

Sauce

  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Vegetables

  • 3 cups fresh spinach
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Additional Flavors

  • 1/3 cup pesto sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Cheese Toppings

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup additional grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Prepare the pasta and chicken: Cook the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside. In a skillet, cook seasoned chicken breasts until fully cooked, then shred or dice into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Sauté the spinach: Use olive oil in the skillet to gently wilt fresh spinach with minced garlic, ensuring it softens without becoming soggy. Set aside to cool slightly.
  3. Make the Alfredo sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter and stir in heavy cream over medium heat. Gradually whisk in grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Combine the casserole ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, sautéed spinach, Alfredo sauce, and a few spoonfuls of pesto until everything is evenly coated.
  5. Assemble and bake: Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish, sprinkle mozzarella and additional Parmesan on top, then bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
  6. Garnish and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven, let it rest for a few minutes, then top with fresh basil or more pesto before serving for a burst of aroma and color.

Notes

  • Perfect pasta texture: Slightly undercook the pasta so it doesn’t get mushy during baking.
  • Fresh pesto: Use homemade or high-quality store-bought pesto for the best vibrant flavor.
  • Cheese layering: Mix some cheese into the casserole and sprinkle extra on top for a melty, golden crust.
  • Season well: Don’t forget to season the chicken and sauce with salt, pepper, and garlic to avoid bland bites.
  • Rest before serving: Letting the casserole sit after baking helps the flavors meld and makes slicing easier.

Nutrition

Keywords: Chicken Alfredo casserole, spinach pesto bake, creamy chicken pasta casserole, family dinner, comfort food, make-ahead casserole

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