Creamy Spinach Chicken Pasta

Name: Creamy Spinach Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz penne pasta; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 lb chicken breast, diced; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Hearty Home Dishes

I absolutely love this Creamy Spinach Chicken Pasta recipe! It combines tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a delectable creamy sauce that coats every bite of pasta. When I first made this dish, I was amazed at how quickly it came together, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. The balance of flavors is divine, and it's an excellent way to sneak in some greens. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will earn a permanent spot in your dinner rotation!

Created by

Sophia Lane

Last updated on 2026-02-06T17:41:36.304Z

When I first experimented with this Creamy Spinach Chicken Pasta, I was aiming for a dish that would be both comforting and nutritious. I quickly learned that incorporating fresh spinach not only adds vibrant color but packs in essential vitamins too. The trick is in simmering the spinach just enough so it wilts while still retaining a bit of its texture.

To enhance the flavor, I decided to add a hint of garlic and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese right at the end. This combination elevates the sauce, making it rich and creamy, perfect for clinging to the pasta. You'll find this dish so satisfying that it could easily become your new favorite!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, creamy sauce envelops perfectly cooked pasta
Fresh spinach adds a burst of color and nutrition
Quick and easy to prepare for busy weeknights

Perfecting Your Pasta

Choosing the right pasta is crucial for achieving the ideal texture in this Creamy Spinach Chicken Pasta. I recommend using penne as its tubular shape captures the creamy sauce beautifully, ensuring that every bite is full of flavor. When cooking the pasta, make sure to add a tablespoon of salt to the boiling water. This not only seasons the pasta but also enhances its overall taste. Monitor the cooking time closely, as overcooking can lead to mushy pasta—al dente is your goal!

Once drained, do not rinse your pasta. Rinsing washes away the starch that helps the sauce cling to the noodles. If you need to hold the pasta before combining it with the sauce, toss it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. This small step can make a significant difference, keeping your pasta looking great and ready to absorb that luscious creamy sauce.

Choosing and Cooking Chicken

For this recipe, using chicken breast ensures a lean protein source that cooks quickly and remains tender. When dicing the chicken, aim for even pieces, about one-inch in size, to ensure they cook uniformly. If you're short on time, consider using pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken—just shred it and skip the sautéing step to make dinner even quicker. I find seasoning the chicken with salt and pepper before it hits the pan is essential for building flavor right from the start.

When sautéing the chicken, use medium heat to allow it to brown without burning. Keep an eye on it; the goal is to achieve golden edges and ensure it’s cooked through, which takes about 8-10 minutes. To check for doneness, the internal temperature should reach 165°F. Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps maintain its juiciness before combining with the other ingredients.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Spinach Chicken Pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, use a skillet over low heat and add a splash of milk or extra cream to restore the sauce's creaminess. Be cautious of overheating, as this can lead to a grainy texture in the sauce. Stir frequently for even heating.

For serving, consider garnishing the pasta with extra parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper for a delightful finish. You can also enhance the dish by adding toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds for an added crunch. If you want to elevate this further, serving it alongside a crisp green salad or garlic bread pairs beautifully.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz penne pasta
2 tbsp olive oil
1 lb chicken breast, diced
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.

Add Garlic and Spinach

Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Then, stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted.

Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Add the grated parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and combined.

Combine All Ingredients

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy sauce. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Serve

Serve the Creamy Spinach Chicken Pasta immediately, garnished with extra parmesan if desired.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of red pepper flakes for some heat.

Ingredient Variations

The beauty of this Creamy Spinach Chicken Pasta lies in its versatility. If you're looking for a little twist, substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for an equally satisfying protein option. For dietary restrictions, consider using gluten-free pasta or whole wheat penne to cater to different preferences while maintaining the dish’s essence. Additionally, if you have it on hand, adding some sun-dried tomatoes can elevate the flavor profile remarkably.

Similarly, for those looking to cut calories, you can replace the heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk, although the latter will impart a unique flavor. Just keep an eye on the consistency and adjust the cheese quantity accordingly to maintain that luscious, creamy texture.

Make-Ahead Tips

To save time during the week, you can prepare the components ahead of time. Cook the chicken and sauté the garlic and spinach, then store them separately in the fridge. On the night you plan to serve the dish, simply reheat them in a skillet, add the cream and cheese, and then combine with the pre-cooked pasta. This way, you can enjoy a homemade meal without the hassle of cooking from scratch each night.

If making the entire dish ahead of time, consider undercooking the pasta slightly, as it will continue to cook when reheated. This ensures it remains perfectly al dente, preventing it from becoming mushy. Store the entire dish in an airtight container, and when ready to eat, heat it gently on the stove, adding a touch of liquid to the sauce to thin it out if necessary.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, any pasta of your choice will work great!

→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Just store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this dish healthier?

You can substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt or a low-fat version for a lighter sauce.

→ What can I serve with Chicken Pasta?

A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs perfectly with this dish.