1. **Preheat Oven**: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. **Season and Sear**: Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken until golden brown on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove from pan and set aside.
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### Step 2: Prepare the Pasta
1. **Cook Pasta**: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add fettuccine pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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### Step 3: Make the Sauce
1. **Sauté Garlic**: In the same skillet used for chicken, reduce heat to medium-low and add minced garlic. Cook until fragrant but not browned, about 2 minutes.
2. **Add Cream and Marinara**: Pour in heavy cream and marinara sauce. Stir well. Bring to a simmer over low heat while continuously stirring to prevent scorching.
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### Step 4: Combine Ingredients
1. **Mix Pasta with Sauce**: Add cooked fettuccine pasta and spinach to the sauce mixture. Toss until all ingredients are well coated.
2. **Add Chicken and Cheese**: Return seared chicken breasts to the skillet, ensuring they're fully submerged in the sauce. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and optional red pepper flakes.
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### Step 5: Assemble and Bake
1. **Transfer to Baking Dish**: Pour the pasta mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish.
2. **Top with Cheese**: Sprinkle shredded Parmesan cheese over the top of the pasta bake, then cover loosely with foil.
3. **Bake**: Place in preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until heated through and bubbly.
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### Step 6: Serve
1. **Remove Foil**: Remove foil after baking to allow cheese to melt and get slightly golden on top.
2. **Garnish with Parsley**: Garnish with chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your creamy Tuscan chicken pasta bake!
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This creamy Tuscan chicken pasta bake is not only delicious but also a perfect comfort food option. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in!