Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta

Name: Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz penne pasta; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups fresh spinach; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Heartwarming Meal Recipes

I absolutely love cooking this Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta because it's an exquisite blend of flavors and textures that never fails to impress. The rich, creamy sauce envelops the tender chicken and vibrant spinach, creating a dish that's satisfying and comforting. It's the perfect meal for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasions. Plus, it comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it an all-time favorite in my kitchen. I'm excited to share this recipe with you!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-20T11:46:28.749Z

When I first made this Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta, I was amazed at how all the flavors melded beautifully together. The secret to the creamy sauce is to let the cream simmer for a few minutes, which thickens it perfectly and enhances its flavor profile. Each bite is filled with a mix of cheesy goodness and the freshness of the spinach.

I've learned that using fresh spinach rather than frozen elevates this dish significantly. Fresh spinach wilts down nicely and maintains a vibrant color, bringing a touch of brightness to the creamy sauce. This is definitely a recipe I keep coming back to!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy sauce that coats every piece of pasta
Rich combination of chicken and fresh spinach
Quick and easy for any night of the week

      

Perfecting the Sauce

The creamy sauce is the heart of this dish, and it’s important to achieve the right consistency. After adding the heavy cream to the skillet, lower the heat to avoid boiling, which can lead to separation. Stir constantly until the sauce becomes silky and free from lumps. The addition of Parmesan cheese will help to thicken it further; for an even creamier sauce, you can include a splash of pasta cooking water, which also adds extra flavor.

Using freshly grated Parmesan is key for an optimal flavor profile. Pre-grated cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can affect the texture of the sauce, making it grainy instead of smooth. If you want a richer taste, experiment with adding a bit of cream cheese or mascarpone along with the heavy cream; these ingredients can bring an extra layer of creaminess that enhances the dish beautifully.

Fresh Spinach Benefits

Fresh spinach is not just for color; it adds a burst of nutrients and a mild, sweet earthiness that balances the richness of the cream. When sautéing the spinach, it should cook down quickly, becoming soft and vibrant in color. Make sure to add it towards the end of the chicken cooking step, allowing it just enough time to wilt without losing its bright green hue. This will enhance both presentation and nutrition in your meal.

For those who are sensitive to spinach or looking for alternatives, you can use kale or Swiss chard instead. Simply chop these greens into smaller pieces and adjust the cooking time slightly, as they may take a minute longer to soften. However, I recommend ensuring you still include some sort of green to keep the dish balanced with color and flavor.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a skillet over medium low heat, adding a splash of water or additional cream to help revive the sauce's consistency, ensuring it doesn’t dry out. Stir frequently until heated through, as direct microwaving can lead to uneven heating and a less desirable texture.

For serving, consider a sprinkle of extra Parmesan or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over each plate to brighten the flavors. Pair the dish with a side salad or garlic bread for a heartier meal. You can also adapt this recipe by adding sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy twist or incorporating mushrooms for an earthy undertone. The possibilities are endless!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delicious pasta dish:

Ingredients

8 oz penne pasta
2 tbsp olive oil
1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups fresh spinach
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure you have everything before you begin cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your delicious dish:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted 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 chicken pieces and cook for about 6-8 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Season with salt and pepper.

Add Garlic and Spinach

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Then, add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted.

Combine with Cream

Reduce the heat and add the heavy cream to the skillet. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the mixture is creamy and smooth.

Toss with Pasta

Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is coated with the creamy sauce. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Enjoy this wonderful meal with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider incorporating sun-dried tomatoes or mushrooms. Fresh basil can also bring a delightful twist to this dish.

Key Technique Tips

One crucial technique for ensuring your chicken is perfectly cooked without drying out is to cut it into uniform, bite-sized pieces. This helps it cook evenly and quickly, so it stays juicy. Aim for pieces that are roughly 1-inch cubes. Always allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking; this will help retain juices and enhance overall flavor.

When cooking the pasta, remember to reserve some pasta water before draining. This starchy liquid can be a lifesaver for adjusting the sauce's thickness. If the sauce ends up too thick after tossing with the pasta, adding a bit of this reserved water can loosen it beautifully while still maintaining a creamy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking for a lighter version of this dish, you can substitute half-and-half or a combination of low-fat milk and Greek yogurt for the heavy cream. While this will change the overall creaminess slightly, it remains delicious and satisfying. For a dairy-free option, consider using coconut milk or cashew cream as they also lend a rich texture without the dairy.

The chicken breast can be swapped for grilled shrimp or cooked sausage, depending on your preference. If using shrimp, add them to the skillet just before you incorporate the heavy cream, as they cook quickly and will infuse a lovely seafood flavor to the dish.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe can be easily scaled up or down depending on your needs. For larger gatherings, simply double the ingredients and use a larger skillet or split between two to ensure everything cooks evenly. When increasing the size, just keep an eye on the cooking times as they may vary slightly when more chicken or pasta is involved.

Conversely, if you're cooking for one or wish to make a smaller portion, it's just as easy! Use a quarter of the ingredients for a single serving while maintaining key ratios. This allows for flexibility without sacrificing the essence of the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole grain pasta instead?

Yes, whole grain pasta can be a healthier alternative and will work well in this recipe.

→ Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a plant-based cream for a lighter option, but it may alter the richness of the sauce.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the chicken and sauce and store them separately in the refrigerator. Reheat before mixing with fresh pasta.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for additional flavors and nutrients.