Chicken and Spinach Pasta

Chicken and Spinach Pasta is a quick and easy comfort food dinner perfect for busy days. Chicken and spinach are cooked in a creamy, garlicky sauce and nestled in tender penne.

This wholesome dish is easy to prepare and flavorful, making it an ideal choice for an easy weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering with friends and family.

You’ll love how the tender pieces of chicken pair perfectly with the velvety spinach, creating a colorful and satisfying meal. 

Plus, pasta is a versatile ingredient that allows you to customize the dish to your taste preferences.

As you prepare this delicious dinner, don’t hesitate to get creative and add your favorite ingredients. Some popular additions include sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for spice lovers. With its vibrant colors and delicious taste, chicken and spinach pasta will quickly become a go-to recipe for the whole family to enjoy.

Why You’ll Love Creamy Spinach Chicken Pasta

Chicken and spinach pasta is a delicious and comforting meal that will surely become a family favorite in your household. Here are a few reasons why you’ll love this dish:

• Quick to make: Ready in 30 minutes or less, this quick meal is perfect for busy weeknights and is always a huge hit. With a short list of ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can have this easy dinner on the table in no time.
• Nutritious: Combining lean chicken and nutrient-rich spinach, this pasta dish is a great way to add essential vitamins and minerals such as protein, iron, and calcium. You can even include the benefits of fiber and antioxidants by choosing whole wheat pasta.
• Customizable: Feel free to personalize the dish by adding your preferred ingredients or swapping out components for healthier options. For example, consider using fresh cherry tomatoes or roasted bell peppers instead of sun-dried tomatoes. You can also opt for an alternative pasta like a gluten-free or low-carb variety.
• Incredible flavor: Chicken and spinach pasta flavors are brought together through a creamy and savory sauce, elevated by adding garlic and Parmesan cheese. The tender pasta absorbs the rich flavors of the dish, making each bite an explosion of taste.

Ingredients

• Penne pasta: Cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
• Extra virgin olive oil: Used for sautéing the garlic and building the sauce.
• Fresh garlic: Adds a wonderful, aromatic flavor to this dish.
• Salt: Enhances the flavor of all the ingredients.
• Black pepper: A little spice for added depth to the pasta.
• Red pepper flakes: Adjust according to your taste for a hint of heat.
• Chicken broth: Adds richness and depth to the sauce.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Provides a nutty, salty flavor to the sauce and creates a creamy texture.
• Heavy cream: Creates a luscious, velvety sauce for the pasta.
• Spinach: Adds color, texture, and nutrients to your dish.
• Shredded rotisserie chicken: A convenient, time-saving option for cooked chicken, or use any leftover chicken!
• Sun-dried tomatoes: Offer a tangy, concentrated burst of flavor in every bite.

How to Make Chicken and Spinach Pasta

• Step One: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Salt the water generously and add the pasta to the boiling water. Allow the pasta to cook for 7 to 8 minutes or until it’s just under al dente. Before draining the pasta in a colander, reserve 1 cup of the pasta water for later use.
• Step Two: While your pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, and cook it for 1 to 2 minutes until it’s softened. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, stirring well to combine everything.

• Step Three: Pour in the chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream, and stir the ingredients to combine them well. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Then, reduce the heat to medium-low.

• Step Four: Add the pasta with the spinach to the pot containing the sauce once the pasta is cooked. Stir everything so the pasta and spinach are well-coated with the sauce. Allow the spinach to wilt for about 2 to 3 minutes.
• Step Five: Add the chicken into the mixture gently. If you find the sauce too thick, add some reserved pasta water, about 1/4 cup at a time, stirring until you achieve your desired consistency.
• Step Six: Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, serve the chicken and spinach pasta hot, and enjoy your delicious meal.

Equipment Needed

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• Large skillet: A good-sized skillet is essential for cooking the chicken, spinach, and sauce. Make sure it has a sturdy, heat-resistant handle and a non-stick coating for easy food release and clean-up.
• Pot for boiling pasta: You’ll need a large pot to cook your pasta to the perfect al dente texture. Choose a pot with a built-in strainer, or use a separate colander for draining the pasta after it’s cooked.
• Cutting board and sharp knife: You’ll need a sturdy cutting board and a sharp knife to prep your ingredients. These tools are essential for slicing chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and chopping fresh spinach or garlic.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: A wooden spoon is a versatile tool for stirring the pasta and sauce in the skillet. You can also use a heat-resistant silicone spatula if that’s what you have on hand.
• Measuring cups and spoons: These are necessary to accurately measure ingredients such as chicken broth, and spices. Accurate measurements ensure your dish is well-balanced and flavorful.

What to Serve with this Easy Pasta Dish

• Salad: A simple, fresh garden salad with a light dressing complements the pasta dish without overwhelming your palate or adding too many extra calories.
• Garlic Bread: Who doesn’t enjoy some warm, buttery garlic bread accompanying pasta? It’s a classic choice that adds a touch of comfort to your meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: For a healthier side option, roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes are seasoned with herbs to enhance the flavors.
• White Wine: A crisp, citrusy white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully and offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy sauce.

Garnishing Ideas

• Lemon Zest: Give your pasta a burst of freshness by adding some grated lemon zest right before serving. This will brighten up the dish and enhance the lemony flavors.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: If you like a bit of heat in your dish, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top for a subtle kick.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grate some extra Parmesan cheese on top for a beautiful presentation and an added layer of flavor. Remember, you can never go wrong with more cheese!
• Fresh Herbs: To make your dish more visually appealing and flavorful, garnish with freshly chopped herbs like basil or parsley.

Variations and Substitutions

• Go meatless: Tofu or tempeh make excellent substitutes for chicken in your spinach pasta dish. Simply cube or crumble them, cook them in a skillet, and add them to the rest of your ingredients. You can also try incorporating other protein-rich plant-based options such as chickpeas, lentils, or even a variety of mushrooms.
• Switch out the pasta: You have a wide range of pasta varieties to choose from. Classics like spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine work well. Don’t be afraid to experiment with less common options like farfalle pasta (bow-tie), fusilli, whole wheat, or gluten-free pasta.
• Add veggies: Adding extra veggies can bring more depth of flavor and nutrients to your dish. Some tasty additions include bell pepper, broccoli, zucchini, or roasted butternut squash. 
• Add fresh herbs: You can also add fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme to enhance the overall flavor of your dish. Italian seasoning is also yummy.
• Optional add-ins: For added crunchiness, sprinkle your pasta with toasted nuts like pine nuts or walnuts. For extra cheesiness, try using a blend of different cheeses, such as mozzarella, provolone, or fontina, along with the classic Parmesan. 
• Try a different protein: Add shrimp, scallops, crispy bacon, or turkey sausage to create a unique and satisfying meal. You can also use cooked boneless skinless chicken breasts instead of rotisserie chicken.
• Swap out the heavy whipping cream: Try whole milk or even a block of cream cheese instead to make the cream sauce.
• Add a touch of pesto: Add a few tablespoons of basil pesto to the sauce to change the flavor.

Storage Instructions

To keep your chicken and spinach pasta fresh in the refrigerator, follow these simple steps:

1. Allow the pasta to cool down to room temperature.
2. Use an airtight container or plastic wrap to cover the dish.
3. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Can I Freeze?

Freezing your chicken and spinach pasta can be a handy option for meal planning. Just follow these guidelines:

1. Allow the pasta to cool down completely.
2. Divide it into serving-sized portions for easy reheating.
3. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
4. Place portions in a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag.
5. Keep in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

Label containers or freezer bags with the date and name of the dish to easily identify it later. Note that freezing may change the sauce’s consistency and texture.

Reheating Instructions

Whether your pasta has been refrigerated or frozen, follow these instructions to reheat it:

• In the microwave: Place the pasta in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes at a time, stirring in between until fully warmed through.
• On the stovetop: Transfer the pasta to a nonstick skillet and heat it over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Stir occasionally until heated through.