Creating Marry Me Chicken Pasta Bake is a simple process that yields delicious results. Follow these steps for a perfect dish:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Sauté the Chicken: In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
4. Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
5. Add Cheese and Seasoning: Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
6. Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta, baby spinach, and cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Toss to coat everything in the creamy sauce.
7. Slice the Chicken: Slice the cooked chicken breasts and place them on top of the pasta mixture.
8. Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through and the top is slightly golden.
9. Garnish: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil before serving.

These straightforward steps will guide you in creating a dish that’s not only flavorful but also visually stunning!