Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta

Name: Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 250g penne pasta; 2 chicken breasts, diced; 200g fresh spinach; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta because it’s a delightful dish that always pleases my family. The combination of tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a rich, creamy sauce creates a comforting and satisfying meal. I enjoy how quickly it comes together, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, I always have the ingredients on hand, which makes it my go-to recipe when cravings hit. This pasta is not just filling; it also offers a burst of flavor that keeps me coming back for more!

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-01-20T09:57:27.833Z

When I first tried making Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta, I was amazed at how the simple ingredients transformed into a luscious meal. The secret is in the balance of cream and cheese, which adds richness without being too heavy. I also love the fresh spinach, which wilt beautifully into the sauce, adding both color and nutrients.

One tip I've discovered is to cook the pasta to al dente, so it maintains a bit of bite and doesn’t become mushy when combined with the sauce. It’s these small details that elevate this dish from ordinary to extraordinary!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that envelops each strand of pasta
Fresh spinach adds a nutritious twist and a pop of color
Quick preparation makes it perfect for busy evenings

      

The Importance of Timing

Timing plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect creamy texture for your sauce. When cooking the chicken, aim for a golden-brown color on the outside and ensure it's fully cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you overcook the chicken, it can become dry, so keep an eye on it during the 6-8 minutes of cooking.

When adding the heavy cream, it’s key to lower the heat to prevent curdling. Allow the cream to simmer gently, stirring occasionally, for about 3-5 minutes. This process helps to thicken the sauce and allows the flavors to meld beautifully. You want the cream to become glossy but not boil vigorously, which can adversely affect its consistency.

Ingredient Roles and Substitutions

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in building flavor and texture. The heavy cream is what gives this pasta its luxurious, creamy base, while the Parmesan cheese thickens the sauce and adds that umami kick. If you’re looking to lighten the dish, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream or a dairy-free cream alternative for a lighter but still creamy sauce.

Fresh spinach not only enhances the nutritional profile of the dish but also offers a vibrant color that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce. However, if fresh spinach isn’t available, frozen spinach can be a great substitute. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the skillet to avoid excess moisture in the dish.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before you start cooking for a smoother experience.

Main Ingredients

250g penne pasta
2 chicken breasts, diced
200g fresh spinach
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to adjust the seasoning to your taste!

Steps

Follow these steps to create a delicious meal.

Cook the Pasta

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

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breasts and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.

Add Garlic and Spinach

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the fresh spinach and sauté until wilted.

Prepare the Sauce

Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream, allowing it to simmer gently. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and combined.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the creamy sauce. Make sure every piece of pasta is coated.

Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve warm with extra Parmesan cheese on top.

Enjoy your delicious homemade pasta!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider incorporating sun-dried tomatoes or mushrooms into the recipe. Also, using freshly grated cheese will enhance the richness of the dish.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta can be made ahead of time, making it a great option for meal prep. To do this, prepare the chicken and sauce as directed, then allow them to cool before storing in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you're ready to enjoy the dish, simply reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or additional cream to bring it back to the desired consistency.

If you want to freeze this dish, ensure it is cooled completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. For reheating, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm gently on the stove, stirring frequently to avoid separation of the sauce.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

To elevate this dish further, consider topping it with crushed red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley before serving. This adds not only a burst of flavor but also a lovely visual appeal. Pair it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that’s sure to satisfy everyone's appetite.

For a twist, you can incorporate additional vegetables such as sun-dried tomatoes or artichoke hearts, which add depth and complexity to the dish. Alternatively, swap the chicken for shrimp or mushrooms for a delightful variation that suits your preferences or dietary needs. Each option still blends perfectly with the creamy sauce and retains the essence of this beloved pasta dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat pasta?

Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great alternative that adds extra fiber.

→ What can I use instead of chicken?

You can substitute the chicken with shrimp or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

While it's best fresh, you can prepare the sauce a day ahead and heat it when you're ready to serve with freshly cooked pasta.

→ How can I make this dish lighter?

You can use half-and-half or a light cream alternative instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.