This creamy chicken spinach pasta is a tasty dish that combines tender chicken, fresh spinach, and pasta all coated in a rich and velvety sauce. It’s comfort food at its best!
Honestly, it feels like a warm hug on a plate. I love tossing in some extra cheese on top—who can resist that? It’s quick to make when you’re in a hurry!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I usually go for penne or casarecce because they hold onto sauce well. If you’re out of these, feel free to use any pasta like fusilli or farfalle—whatever you have in your pantry works fine!
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for quick cooking. If you prefer, use shredded rotisserie chicken or even grilled chicken for added flavor. Tofu is a good plant-based substitute if you want a vegetarian option!
Heavy Cream: This adds richness to the sauce. If you want a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or even a plant-based cream. Just note that it may change the flavor slightly.
Spinach: Fresh baby spinach is my go-to because it wilts nicely and adds great color. You can also swap it for kale or frozen spinach, but make sure to thaw and drain frozen spinach beforehand.
Parmesan Cheese: I love using fresh grated Parmesan for the best taste. If you need a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast is a good substitute to provide a cheesy flavor.
How Do You Ensure the Chicken is Juicy and Flavorful?
To keep your chicken tender, be sure to not overcook it. Here’s how I do it:
- Let the chicken pieces sit seasoned with salt and pepper before cooking. This helps flavor the chicken.
- Use medium-high heat to get a nice sear while keeping it juicy inside. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, just until cooked through.
- After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before adding it back to the pasta. This keeps it moist and tasty!
Remember, practice makes perfect! The more you cook, the easier it’ll be to nail the chicken just right.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Spinach Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz penne or casarecce pasta
For the Chicken:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried oregano and basil)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes total to prepare and cook: around 10 minutes to get everything prepped and then about 20 minutes to cook. It’s a quick dish perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once the pasta is ready, drain it and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.
2. Sauté the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the cut chicken pieces with a little salt and pepper. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Prepare the Garlic and Spinach:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, just until it’s fragrant but not browned. Then, toss in the fresh spinach. Stir frequently for about 2-3 minutes until it wilts down.
4. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Next, pour in the heavy cream and stir well to combine everything. Let it come to a gentle simmer—this is where the magic happens!
5. Add Cheese and Seasonings:
Now, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), Italian seasoning, and season with more salt and pepper to taste. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce slightly thickens for that delectable creaminess.
6. Combine the Chicken and Pasta:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the drained pasta. Toss everything together gently so that the pasta and chicken are fully coated in that luscious creamy spinach sauce.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Your creamy chicken spinach pasta is ready! Serve it hot and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy this comforting dish!
Bon appétit!
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 it may take a little longer to cook, so check the package for specific cooking times.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and a bit of flour or cornstarch to thicken it. For a non-dairy version, look for plant-based cream alternatives—just note that the flavor may vary slightly.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. If the sauce thickens too much, you can add a splash of water or milk to loosen it.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in other veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini. Just remember to sauté them along with the garlic to ensure they’re tender before adding the spinach and cream.
