If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Creamy Spinach Chicken Pasta Recipe is your new best friend. With tender chicken cooked to perfection, silky pasta, and a luscious sauce packed with fresh spinach and Parmesan cheese, every bite offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures. This recipe is not only comforting but also a wonderful way to sneak some greens into your meal while enjoying a rich, creamy sauce that feels indulgent without being complicated. Trust me, once you try this dish, it will quickly become a go-to for weeknight dinners or any time you want to treat yourself.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the secret to this dish’s magic. Each component plays an essential role in creating the perfect harmony of taste, texture, and color that defines the Creamy Spinach Chicken Pasta Recipe.
- 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless: These provide juicy, lean protein that’s easy to cook evenly.
- 8 ounces pasta: Whether you choose penne, farfalle, or your favorite shape, pasta is the cozy base for the sauce.
- 2 cups fresh spinach: Adds vibrant color and a nutrient boost without overpowering the creaminess.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Perfect for searing the chicken and adding subtle richness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with fragrant, savory depth.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: The star ingredient that transforms this into a luscious, silky sauce.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Keeps the sauce light while enhancing the savory notes.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a sharp, salty punch that melts beautifully into the sauce.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Essential for balancing all the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Provides just the right touch of warmth and spice.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a subtle kick if you want to add a little heat.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Adds richness and helps mellow the garlic flavor.
How to Make Creamy Spinach Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by heating a large pot of salted water over medium-high heat until it reaches a rolling boil. Adding salt is key here — it seasons the pasta from the inside out. Then, cook 8 ounces of your chosen pasta until it’s al dente, which usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes depending on the type. Don’t forget to reserve half a cup of the starchy pasta water when you drain it; this magical liquid helps loosen the sauce later, ensuring every strand is perfectly coated.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
While the pasta boils, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the chicken breasts and cook them for 5 to 7 minutes on each side. You’re aiming for that beautiful golden crust on the outside and fully cooked, juicy chicken inside — an internal temperature of 165°F is your go-to. After cooking, set the chicken aside to rest; this little pause keeps the juices locked in.
Step 3: Build the Sauce Base
In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of butter along with the minced garlic. Cook gently for 1 to 2 minutes until the garlic’s fragrance fills your kitchen, careful not to burn it. Next, toss in the fresh spinach and let it wilt down for a couple of minutes. This step is where the vibrant color and fresh flavor begin to shine, giving the sauce a beautiful base.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in 1/2 cup of chicken broth followed by 1/2 cup of heavy cream, stirring everything together. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken just slightly over 4 to 5 minutes. Once it’s starting to get that perfect creamy consistency, stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until it melts completely. Season with salt, black pepper, and if you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes to add a subtle heat that balances the creaminess wonderfully.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
Slice the rested chicken into thin strips or bite-sized pieces. Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce, tossing well to coat every piece. Use that reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed — it’s the secret to a perfectly smooth and luscious texture. Finish by mixing the chicken back in, giving everything a final toss for an even distribution of flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning to your liking, because this dish is all about delicious personalization.
How to Serve Creamy Spinach Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your presentation, sprinkle extra freshly grated Parmesan on top right before serving. A few torn fresh basil leaves or a light drizzle of high-quality olive oil can also add an inviting aroma and burst of freshness. These small touches turn a cozy dinner into a special experience.
Side Dishes
This pasta is a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread makes it even more delightful. The salad’s crunch and acidity perfectly balance the rich, creamy sauce, while garlic bread is the ultimate comfort side that soaks up every last bit of goodness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the creamy spinach chicken pasta in shallow bowls and top with a poached egg for extra silkiness. Or, for a family-style dinner, place the skillet right on the table so everyone can help themselves, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that encourages sharing and great conversation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Spinach Chicken Pasta Recipe can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools to room temperature before sealing to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage. You’ll find it tastes just as good the next day, making for convenient lunches or easy dinners.
Freezing
Although freezing cream-based sauces can be tricky, you can freeze this dish if needed. Separate the chicken and pasta from the sauce and freeze them individually, then combine again upon reheating. This method helps preserve texture and flavor better. Frozen portions should be used within 1 to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, gently reheat the pasta on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to help revive the creamy texture as it warms. Avoid the microwave if possible, as slow reheating preserves the sauce’s silky consistency and keeps the chicken tender.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh spinach?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach if fresh isn’t available. Just make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess water before adding it to the skillet, so your sauce doesn’t get too watery.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Short pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or farfalle work beautifully because their nooks and curves hold onto the creamy sauce. However, feel free to use your favorite pasta shape — most will work just fine.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Absolutely! Swap out the heavy cream for coconut milk or a cashew-based cream, and replace Parmesan cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
How spicy does the red pepper flakes make the dish?
The red pepper flakes add a gentle background heat that enhances the overall flavor without overwhelming the creaminess. You can easily adjust the amount or omit it altogether based on your spice preference.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Definitely. Chicken thighs offer more richness and stay moist longer, which makes the dish even more flavorful. Just adjust cooking time accordingly; thighs may need a couple of extra minutes to cook through.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Spinach Chicken Pasta Recipe is a superb blend of comfort and elegance that’s perfect for any night of the week. Its simple ingredients come together to create something truly special — creamy, flavorful, and satisfying in every bite. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how quickly it becomes a beloved staple in your kitchen too!
Print
Creamy Spinach Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 10m
- Cook Time: 0h 20m
- Total Time: 0h 30m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
A creamy and savory spinach chicken pasta dish featuring tender, pan-cooked chicken breasts tossed with pasta in a rich garlic-heavy cream sauce, enhanced by fresh spinach and Parmesan cheese. This recipe combines simple ingredients and easy cooking steps to deliver a comforting, flavorful meal perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
Pasta
- 8 ounces pasta (any type)
Sauce & Vegetables
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Boil Pasta: Heat a large pot of salted water over medium-high heat until boiling, then add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
- Drain Pasta: Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later use in the sauce.
- Cook Chicken: While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook 5-7 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and no longer pink inside. Remove chicken from skillet and let rest.
- Sauté Garlic and Spinach: In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, then add spinach and sauté for 2-3 minutes until wilted.
- Make Sauce: Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well. Simmer for 4-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add Cheese and Season: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted. Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Combine Pasta and Chicken: Slice the rested chicken breasts into strips or bite-sized pieces. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to loosen. Stir in the sliced chicken, mixing everything evenly.
- Final Seasoning and Serve: Taste the dish and adjust seasonings with more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if preferred.
Notes
- Reserve pasta water when draining as it helps adjust the sauce consistency without diluting the flavor.
- Use fresh spinach for best texture and taste; frozen spinach will add excess moisture.
- Chicken can be butterflied for faster cooking, or cut into smaller pieces before cooking.
- Optional red pepper flakes add a subtle heat; omit if you prefer mild flavors.
- Parmesan cheese can be substituted with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
- Ensure chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.
