Easy Cheesy Chicken and Pasta

1 1/2 c. penne pasta, whole grain, uncooked

1 pkg spinach, fresh (6 oz)

cooking spray

1 lb. chicken breast, skinless, boneless, cut into pieces

1 t. basil, dried

1 can tomato sauce, no salt added (16 oz)

1 can tomatoes, diced, no salt added, (14.5 oz)

2 oz cream cheese, 1/3 less fat, cubed

1 c. mozzarella cheese, shredded, part skim, shredded, divided

2 T Parmesan cheese, grated


Cook pasta as directed on package omitting salt and fat. Add the spinach to the boiling water the last minute of cooking.  Drain and set aside.  Spray a large skillet with cooking spray.  Cook chicken and basil on medium-high heat for 3 minutes.  Stir in tomato sauce and tomatoes; bring to a boil. Simmer until chicken is cooked through.  Add in cream cheese and stir.  Add drained pasta and spinach to the large skillet. Mix well. Add 1/2 c. mozzarella cheese and stir. Top with remaining 1/2 c. of mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese.  Serve.

Makes 7-1 c. servings.

Nutrition Information: 260 calories; 8 g fat; 50 mg cholesterol; 390 mg sodium; 25 g carbohydrates; 4 g fiber; 22 g protein.

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