If you are craving a comforting yet elegant dish that blends tender chicken, fresh spinach, and luscious sauce all tossed with your favorite pasta, this Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a fantastic weeknight meal that feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen. The silky creaminess paired with vibrant greens and perfectly cooked chicken makes every bite truly satisfying and keeps everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering fresh and straightforward ingredients is the key here; each one plays a crucial role in building the flavor, texture, and color that make this dish shine. These essentials work beautifully together to create a balanced and irresistible pasta meal.
- 8 ounces uncooked pasta: Pick your favorite shape—penne, fettuccine, or even rotini—to deliver the perfect noodle foundation.
- 2 chicken breasts, cut into small bite-size pieces: Fresh chicken ensures tender, juicy bites that soak up the sauce.
- Salt & pepper, to taste: Simple seasonings that bring out the natural flavors of the chicken and other ingredients.
- Flour, for dredging: Helps create a light coating on chicken for better browning and to thicken the sauce slightly.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Adds richness and helps develop a golden crust on the chicken.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Balances the butter and prevents it from burning, boosting flavor.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Provides aromatic warmth and depth to the sauce.
- 1/3 cup chicken broth: Adds savory flavor and a bit of moisture to the sauce base.
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice: A splash of brightness that lifts and balances the creaminess.
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle tang and complexity that enriches the sauce.
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Infuses savory herb notes without overpowering the other flavors.
- 1 cup heavy/whipping cream: The star ingredient creating the luxuriously creamy texture of the sauce.
- 5 ounces fresh baby spinach: A fresh, lightly cooked green contributing vibrant color and nutrition.
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese: Melts smoothly to add salty, nutty flavor and thickens the sauce perfectly.
How to Make Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the pasta
Start by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente—tender but still with a slight bite. Drain it well and set it aside so it’s ready to be combined with the creamy sauce later on.
Step 2: Prepare and cook the chicken
Season those bite-sized chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper. Lightly dredge them in flour to help them brown nicely and add a touch of texture. Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the chicken pieces and cook until they’re golden on the outside and cooked through. Once done, remove them from the pan and keep warm.
Step 3: Build the sauce base
Using the same skillet, toss in your minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds until fragrant—which brings out its sweet, mellow flavor without burning. Next, add chicken broth, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and Italian seasoning. Let this simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 4: Add cream and spinach
Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer to thicken slightly. Then, stir in the fresh baby spinach and cook just until the spinach is wilted, retaining its bright green color and delicate texture.
Step 5: Finish the sauce and combine
Sprinkle in the freshly grated parmesan cheese and stir until it melts completely, transforming the sauce into a smooth, silky coating. Return the cooked chicken and pasta back to the skillet, tossing everything together until every piece is luxuriously coated with that creamy sauce. Serve while nice and warm.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Recipe even more, sprinkle some extra parmesan cheese and freshly cracked black pepper on top. For a burst of freshness, a few torn basil leaves or a sprinkle of chopped parsley work wonders both in flavor and presentation.
Side Dishes
This dish feels complete on its own, but pairing it with a simple side salad of mixed greens with a tangy vinaigrette or some warm, crusty garlic bread creates the perfect meal balance—offering crisp textures alongside creamy indulgence.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving this pasta in shallow bowls to showcase the vibrant colors of the spinach and golden chicken. For a fun twist, garnish with roasted pine nuts for added crunch or a light drizzle of truffle oil to add an unexpected gourmet touch that will impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers of this Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 2 to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy the flavors without losing that creamy texture.
Freezing
Freezing creamy pasta dishes can be a little tricky because the sauce may separate upon thawing. While it’s possible to freeze portions of this recipe, it’s best to do so only if necessary. Use a freezer-safe container and consume within 1 to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating
When you reheat leftovers, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave in short bursts. Stir frequently and add a splash of milk or cream to bring back the sauce’s smooth consistency without drying it out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta in this Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is very versatile, so you can swap in penne, fusilli, or even farfalle depending on what you have on hand or your personal preference. Just cook the pasta according to the time on its package.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative, and use dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast to mimic the parmesan flavor. Keep in mind the taste and texture will be a bit different but still delicious.
Can I add other vegetables besides spinach?
Sure thing! Feel free to toss in mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or peas to add more color and flavor. Just add them when you stir in the spinach so they cook evenly with the rest of the ingredients.
How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply replace the regular pasta with your favorite gluten-free variety and use a gluten-free flour blend for dredging the chicken. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, which makes this swap super straightforward.
What wine pairs well with Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Recipe?
A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a lightly oaked Chardonnay pairs beautifully here. Their acidity cuts through the creamy sauce, balancing richness while complementing the herbs and lemon notes.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Recipe has quickly become one of those comforting, joyful dishes you’ll want to make again and again. It’s an effortless combination of flavors with a delightful creamy texture that warms the soul. I can’t wait for you to try it and share the joy it brings around your table.
Print
Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta is a delicious and comforting dish featuring tender chicken pieces cooked in a rich garlic cream sauce with fresh spinach and Parmesan cheese. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner that combines savory flavors and creamy textures over perfectly cooked pasta.
Ingredients
Pasta and Chicken
- 8 ounces uncooked pasta
- 2 chicken breasts, cut into small bite-size pieces
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- Flour, for dredging
Sauce and Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
- 5 ounces fresh baby spinach
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
- Prepare the chicken: Season the bite-size chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then lightly dredge them in flour to coat evenly.
- Cook the chicken: Heat butter and olive oil together in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the floured chicken pieces and cook until they turn golden brown and are fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- Sauté the garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Create the sauce base: Stir in the chicken broth, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and Italian seasoning. Let the mixture simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes to combine the flavors and slightly reduce.
- Add the cream: Pour in the heavy cream and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Incorporate spinach: Add the fresh baby spinach to the skillet and cook until the spinach wilts completely, which usually takes 2-3 minutes.
- Melt the cheese: Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and continue stirring until the cheese has melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Combine everything: Return the cooked chicken and drained pasta back into the skillet. Toss gently to coat the chicken and pasta evenly with the creamy sauce.
- Serve: Serve the creamy chicken and spinach pasta warm immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- For a healthier twist, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, but the sauce will be less rich.
- Gluten-free pasta can be used to make this recipe gluten-free.
- To add more flavor, garnish with fresh chopped parsley or basil before serving.
- Make sure not to overcook the spinach; it should just wilt to retain its bright green color and nutrients.
- This dish can be prepared up to step 8 in advance; add the chicken and pasta just before serving.
