This creamy chicken spinach pasta is a cozy dish that combines tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a rich sauce. It’s comforting and perfect for any dinner table!
The best part? It comes together in just one pot, which means less time cleaning up! I love to sprinkle some cheese on top for that extra yum factor. Who can resist? 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: This pasta shape holds the creamy sauce perfectly! If you’re out of penne, you can use any pasta like fusilli, rotini, or even spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great here. For a twist, you could use chicken thighs, which are juicier. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try using chickpeas or mushrooms instead!
Heavy Cream: This gives the dish its rich texture. If you want a lighter option, substitute with half-and-half or Greek yogurt (add it off the heat to avoid curdling). Dairy-free options like coconut cream also work well!
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a vibrant touch. If you don’t have fresh spinach, you can use frozen, but make sure to thaw and drain it before adding.
How Do You Ensure the Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
To get juicy chicken, start by cutting it into uniform pieces. This helps them cook evenly. Season well with salt and pepper, and avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure browning.
- Heat the oil in a hot skillet before adding the chicken.
- Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, turning it once to get a nice golden color.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; it should read 165°F (75°C).
Don’t forget to let it rest for a few minutes after cooking. This keeps the juices inside, making for tender pieces in your creamy pasta!
How to Make Creamy Chicken Spinach Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious creamy chicken spinach pasta will take about 30 minutes to prepare from start to finish. You’ll spend roughly 10 minutes gathering and chopping ingredients and around 20 minutes cooking. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the penne pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (just slightly firm). Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside in a colander. Don’t forget to reserve a little pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce later!
2. Searing the Chicken:
In a large skillet or deep sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Add the seasoned chicken to the hot pan, cooking for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s browned and cooked through. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sautéing Aromatics:
In the same pan, add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté these for about 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter!
4. Making the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This will create a delightful, creamy sauce that will coat your pasta beautifully!
5. Combining the Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked penne back into the pan and sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together well, allowing the cheese to melt and combine with the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
6. Adding Chicken and Spinach:
Now, it’s time to add the cooked chicken back into the skillet along with the fresh spinach leaves. Stir gently until the spinach wilts, and everything is well-coated in creamy goodness!
7. Final Seasoning:
Taste your pasta and adjust seasonings with more salt, pepper, or crushed red pepper flakes, depending on your spice preference.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your creamy chicken spinach pasta with fresh basil or parsley. Serve it warm and enjoy every delicious bite!
Bon appétit! This comforting pasta dish is sure to become a favorite in your home!
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great way to add extra fiber, and gluten-free pasta works just as well. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as it may vary based on the type of pasta you choose.
What If I Don’t Have Chicken Broth?
No worries! You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth or even water. Just remember that the broth adds flavor, so using a broth will give your dish a richer taste.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove with a splash of cream or chicken broth to loosen the sauce, stirring occasionally.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to throw in other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms along with the spinach. Just sauté them with the garlic and onion for extra flavor.
