chicken and spinach pasta recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
chicken and spinach pasta recipe
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The Best chicken and spinach pasta recipe

This chicken and spinach pasta recipe is one of my go to meals when I need something hearty and healthy on the table fast. My family loves it because it is creamy but not too heavy and the spinach adds a nice pop of color and nutrition. I like that it uses simple ingredients I usually have on hand and it comes together in about 30 minutes. It is perfect for busy weeknights but also nice enough for a casual dinner with friends. The chicken keeps it filling and the spinach gives you a good dose of vitamins and iron. Even my kids who are picky about greens will eat this without complaint.

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta

4.9 from 1010 votes

A quick and creamy pasta dish with tender chicken and fresh spinach. Perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels special but is easy to make.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time20 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time30 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta

12 oz penne or fettuccine
1 tbsp salt for pasta water

For the Chicken and Sauce

2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite sized pieces
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
3 cups fresh spinach
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until golden and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to scrape up any browned bits. Bring to a simmer.
4Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and stir until wilted, about 2 minutes. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
5Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the drained pasta and toss everything together until well coated. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan if desired.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Large skillet
Colander
Wooden spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 22g💛Saturated Fat: 11g❤️Cholesterol: 95mg🧂Sodium: 680mg🌾Total Carbs: 38g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 3g🥩Protein: 28g

📝Notes

Tips: You can use half and half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce. Add sun dried tomatoes or mushrooms for extra flavor.

Watch Video Of How Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Works

This chicken and spinach pasta recipe is a winner in my book because it is quick, satisfying, and always gets rave reviews. It works for a simple family dinner or a casual get together with friends. I hope you give it a try and enjoy it as much as we do.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta

1. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Thaw it first and squeeze out the extra water before adding it to the sauce. You will need about 1 cup of thawed frozen spinach.

2. What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni works great. Fettuccine or linguine are also good if you prefer long noodles. Just cook it al dente so it holds up in the sauce.

3. Can I make this recipe dairy free?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with full fat coconut milk or a dairy free cream alternative. Use nutritional yeast or a dairy free Parmesan in place of the cheese.

4. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.

5. Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely. Mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or roasted red peppers are great additions. Add them when you cook the garlic or stir them in with the spinach.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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