This creamy chicken spinach pasta is a comforting meal packed with yummy flavors! Tender chicken, fresh spinach, and pasta swim in a rich and smooth sauce that warms your belly.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: This pasta shape is perfect for holding the creamy sauce. If you’re out of penne, try fusilli or farfalle instead—they both work well!
Chicken: Chicken breasts are great, but thighs can offer more flavor and tenderness. You can also opt for cooked rotisserie chicken for an even quicker meal.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is the star here, but you can use kale or even frozen spinach if needed. Just make sure to squeeze out excess moisture if using frozen.
Heavy Cream: This gives the dish its creaminess. If you prefer lighter options, half-and-half or even Greek yogurt can work, but adjust the consistency with broth.
Parmesan Cheese: A key flavor booster! If you don’t have Parmesan, pecorino or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free twist can be a fantastic substitute!
How Do I Make the Creamy Sauce Just Right?
Creating that rich, creamy sauce is essential in this dish. Start by simmering the heavy cream and chicken broth together for a few minutes. Here’s how:
- After sautéing the spinach and garlic, pour the liquids into the skillet.
- Let it simmer gently for 3-5 minutes, stirring often. This helps thicken it up!
- Add the cheese gradually, stirring until it melts into the sauce. This is where the magic happens!
- Don’t forget to season—taste and adjust with salt and pepper.
This technique ensures you get a delicious, creamy sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta!
How to Make Creamy Chicken Spinach Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (optional)
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy chicken spinach pasta recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare. It’s quick and is perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner that the whole family will love!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. When done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Chicken:
In a large skillet or wide pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Add them to the pan and sauté until they turn golden and are cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Cook the Aromatics:
Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 2-3 minutes until they become fragrant and the onion is tender. If you’re using diced tomatoes, add them now and let them cook for another 2 minutes.
4. Add the Spinach:
Next, stir in the fresh spinach leaves. Cook the spinach for about 2 minutes, or until it wilts down nicely. It will cook down quickly, so keep an eye on it!
5. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth into the skillet. Give it a gentle stir and bring the mixture to a simmer on low heat. Let it cook for about 3-5 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
6. Mix in the Cheese and Seasoning:
Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring until it melts beautifully and the sauce is creamy. Taste it and adjust the seasoning with salt, black pepper, and if you like a little kick, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes!
7. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the cooked penne pasta. Toss everything together gently until the pasta and chicken are well coated with the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to heat everything through.
8. Serve and Garnish:
Now it’s time to serve! Dish out the creamy chicken spinach pasta into bowls or plates. Don’t forget to garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color.
Enjoy your delicious creamy chicken spinach pasta! It’s a cozy dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great option if you’re looking for a healthier alternative. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so refer to the package instructions for best results.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes, you can! Simply substitute the chicken with your favorite plant-based protein, like tofu or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add more vegetables for extra flavor!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to reheat, do so slowly on the stovetop or in the microwave. If the sauce seems thick, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up!
Can I Freeze This Dish?
While you can freeze the creamy chicken spinach pasta, the cream may change texture upon freezing. If you’re okay with a slight change, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating!
