Cheesy Chicken Penne Pasta
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Cook time: 
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Serves: 8-10
 
This baked cheesy chicken penne pasta adds a twist to comfort food dishes! It is loaded with chicken, spinach and a delicious creamy cheese sauce creating a decadent dinner for your family.
Ingredients
Chicken
  • 1 pound chicken tenderloins, diced
  • Salt and pepper
  • ½ tablespoon olive oil
Cheese Sauce
  • 6 tablespoons butter
  • 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 5 cups milk
  • 4 cups (16 oz) Italian cheese, shredded
  • 1 ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 package (16 oz.) penne pasta
  • 1 package (10 oz.) chopped frozen spinach, thawed, drained and patted dry
  • ½ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
Instructions
  1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
  2. Light grease a 13x9 casserole dish.
  3. Cook penne pasta according to package directions.
  4. Season chicken with salt and pepper.
  5. Meanwhile, in a large skillet heat ½ tablespoon of olive oil on medium heat. Cook chicken until no longer pink about 8- 10 minutes.
  6. Set aside chicken and wipe skillet out.
  7. Add butter. Once melted whisk in flour. Slowly add milk and continue whisking. Bring to a boil and continue to whisk until thickened. Once thickened gradually stir in cheese until completely melted. Add seasoning and stir.
  8. Stir in chicken and spinach. Stir in drained penne pasta.
  9. Pour into casserole dish.
  10. Top with mozzarella cheese.
  11. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Recipe by Domestic Dee at https://domesticdee.com/cheesy-chicken-penne-pasta/