Chicken Spinach Pasta is a creamy, comforting dish that’s quick, nutritious, and full of flavor. With tender chicken, fresh spinach, and perfectly cooked pasta in a rich sauce, it’s an easy go-to for busy weeknights or casual dinners that still feel special.
Why We Love This Chicken Spinach Pasta Recipe
What’s not to love about Chicken Spinach Pasta? Here are just a few reasons why this recipe holds a cherished place in our hearts:
- Quick to Prepare: With a cooking time of about 30 minutes, you can whip up this delicious pasta even on the busiest of nights.
- Nutrient-Rich: Fresh spinach packed into this dish brings essential vitamins and minerals, while the chicken provides lean protein, making it a healthier choice.
- Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of creamy sauce, savory chicken, and tender pasta, accented by the richness of parmesan and the sweetness of sundried tomatoes, creates a flavor profile that’s hard to resist.
- Versatile: You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your family’s tastes, making it a perfect dish for everyone at the table.
Now that you’re convinced to dive into this culinary joy, let’s gather the ingredients and get cooking!
Ingredients for Chicken Spinach Pasta
To recreate this delightful dish in your kitchen, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Water: 2 quarts
- Kosher salt: 1 tablespoon (divided)
- Dried penne pasta: 8 ounces
- Boneless skinless chicken breast: 1 pound
- Black pepper: 3/4 teaspoon (divided)
- Olive oil: 3 tablespoons (divided)
- Minced garlic: 2 teaspoons
- Heavy whipping cream: 1 1/2 cups
- Baby spinach: 3 cups (packed)
- Sundried tomatoes: 1/4 cup
- Grated parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup
- Nutmeg: 1/8 teaspoon
- Sliced basil: 1 tablespoon for garnish
With all ingredients ready, it’s time to immerse yourself in the cooking process!
How to Make Chicken Spinach Pasta
To make a savory Chicken Spinach Pasta, follow these easy directions:
Boil the Water: Begin by bringing 2 quarts of water to a rolling boil in a large pot. Add 1 1/2 teaspoons of kosher salt to the boiling water. This step is essential as it enhances the flavor of the pasta.
Cook the Pasta: Once the water is boiling, add the dried penne and cook according to the package instructions, typically around 10 to 12 minutes. You want it al dente, so keep an eye on it. Once it’s done, drain the pasta but remember to reserve about 1 cup of the starchy pasta cooking liquid. This will be useful for adjusting the cream sauce later.
Prepare the Chicken: While your pasta is cooking, cut the chicken breast into roughly 1-inch cubes. Season the pieces with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper to enhance their flavor.
Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, set over medium heat, pour in 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken cubes in a single layer. Cook them for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side or until they are beautifully golden brown. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a bowl and set it aside.
Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken (to retain that delicious flavor), lower the heat slightly and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil along with the minced garlic. Sauté this mixture until it becomes fragrant, which should take about 30 seconds.
Make the Cream Sauce: Pour in the heavy whipping cream and add the remaining salt and black pepper. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to reduce and thicken slightly. This should take around 3 to 5 minutes.
Add Spinach and Sundried Tomatoes: Stir in the baby spinach and sundried tomatoes, cooking until the spinach wilts. This process should take about a minute, and the spinach will add such a lovely color to your dish.
Finish the Sauce: Turn off the heat once the spinach has wilted. Stir in the grated parmesan cheese and a pinch of nutmeg. Gently mix until the cheese melts and the sauce reaches a creamy consistency. If you feel the sauce is too thick, gradually add in some of the reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired consistency.
Combine Everything: Toss the cooked penne pasta and the golden chicken into the sauce, ensuring everything is well-coated. The pasta will soak up that creamy goodness, making each bite utterly delicious.
Garnish: To finish, sprinkle over sliced basil to add a fresh touch and aroma. Serve your Chicken Spinach Pasta warm, and watch as everyone gathers around eagerly.
How to Serve Chicken Spinach Pasta
Serving your Chicken Spinach Pasta is as important as preparing it. Here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your dish to new heights:
- Beautiful Presentation: Use a large, shallow bowl to serve the pasta. This allows the beautiful colors of the chicken, spinach, and sundried tomatoes to shine. Sprinkle with additional parmesan and fresh basil before serving for an appealing touch.
- Pairing Options: This savory pasta pairs well with a side salad of mixed greens drizzled with a light vinaigrette. A slice of crusty bread or garlic bread will complete your meal perfectly, offering a way to soak up any remaining sauce.
- Personal Touches: Encourage your family or guests to customize their plates with red pepper flakes for some heat, or additional cheese to amplify the richness.
- Optimal Temperature: Ensure your pasta is served warm, as this enhances the flavors and brings comfort to your meal.
By serving it thoughtfully, you’ll present a dish that looks as good as it tastes!
Expert Tips for Chicken Spinach Pasta
To make the most of your Chicken Spinach Pasta, consider these expert tips:
- Choosing Chicken: Select chicken breasts that are fresh and firm. Organic or free-range options can often have superior flavor.
- Pasta Selection: While penne works wonderfully, feel free to experiment with other pasta types such as fusilli or farfalle for varied textures.
- Sauce Consistency: If your sauce becomes too thick, don’t hesitate to add more of the reserved pasta water. This starchy water will enhance the creaminess and help combine all flavors seamlessly.
- Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh spinach and garlic. They can significantly improve the overall taste compared to their dried counterparts.
- Leftover Makeover: If you have leftovers, consider adding grilled vegetables or chickpeas for an extra layer of flavor and nutrition.
- Garnishing: Always garnish with fresh herbs right before serving for a pop of color and freshness. Freshly cracked pepper can enhance the taste too.
How to Store Chicken Spinach Pasta
If you happen to have leftovers (which might be a challenge, given how delicious this dish is!), storing Chicken Spinach Pasta is easy:
- Cool Before Storing: Allow the pasta to cool down to room temperature. This helps maintain the right texture when reheating.
- Use Airtight Containers: Place the leftover pasta in airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing Option: For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked pasta. Just note that creamy sauces may separate a bit when reheated. It’s best used within 1 month for optimal taste.
- Reheat with Care: When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat gently on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to revive the sauce’s creamy consistency.
Variations of Chicken Spinach Pasta
While the classic Chicken Spinach Pasta is undeniably delicious, don’t hesitate to get creative. Here are some variations to consider:
- Pesto Add-In: Stir some basil pesto into the sauce for an extra layer of flavor. This will elevate the dish with fresh herbal undertones.
- Different Proteins: Swap the chicken for shrimp or cooked turkey for a different protein source. Each provides a unique taste that complements the spinach and sauce.
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and add more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or artichoke hearts to make it fully vegetarian.
- Herb Infusion: Incorporate herbs such as thyme, dill, or oregano for a fragrant twist. Fresh herbs tend to provide more aroma and flavor.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with cheeses like goat cheese or mozzarella for a different flavor profile. You can even mix in some ricotta for creaminess.
With these variations, you’ll never tire of this delightful dish!
FAQ About Chicken Spinach Pasta
What is Chicken Spinach Pasta?
Chicken Spinach Pasta is a creamy dish made with penne pasta, tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a rich cream sauce, creating a flavorful meal perfect for any occasion.
How long does it take to prepare Chicken Spinach Pasta?
This dish can typically be prepared in about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick dinner option.
Can I make Chicken Spinach Pasta ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the components in advance and simply combine them on the day of serving. However, it’s best to store the pasta and sauce separately to maintain texture.
What can I serve with Chicken Spinach Pasta?
It pairs well with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables to create a balanced meal.
Chicken Spinach Pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 quarts Water For boiling pasta
- 1 tablespoon Kosher salt Divided
- 8 ounces Dried penne pasta Cooked until al dente
- 1 pound Boneless skinless chicken breast Cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3/4 teaspoon Black pepper Divided
- 3 tablespoons Olive oil Divided
- 2 teaspoons Minced garlic For sautéing
- 1 1/2 cups Heavy whipping cream For the sauce
- 3 cups Baby spinach Packed
- 1/4 cup Sundried tomatoes To add flavor
- 1/2 cup Grated parmesan cheese
- 1/8 teaspoon Nutmeg For seasoning
- 1 tablespoon Sliced basil For garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Bring 2 quarts of water to a rolling boil in a large pot and add 1 1/2 teaspoons of kosher salt.
- Add the dried penne and cook according to the package instructions, typically around 10 to 12 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1 cup of the cooking liquid.
- Cut the chicken breast into roughly 1-inch cubes. Season with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken cubes and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side, until golden brown. Transfer the chicken to a bowl.
- In the same skillet, lower heat slightly and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Pour in the heavy whipping cream and add the remaining salt and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer for 3 to 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken.
- Stir in the baby spinach and sundried tomatoes, cooking until the spinach wilts, about 1 minute.
- Turn off heat and mix in the grated parmesan cheese and nutmeg, stirring until cheese melts. Adjust sauce consistency with reserved pasta water if necessary.
- Toss the cooked penne pasta and golden chicken into the sauce until well-coated.
- Garnish with sliced basil before serving warm.
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