Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta: A Comforting Weeknight Dinner

Looking for a dish that’s hearty, wholesome, and easy to prepare? Look no further than this Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta. This one-pan wonder combines tender chunks of chicken, vibrant baby spinach, and perfectly cooked pasta, all coated in a rich, velvety sauce. Whether you’re feeding your family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a reliable go-to that’s both satisfying and adaptable.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is simplicity at its finest, yet it delivers bold flavors and a comforting texture that everyone will enjoy. The combination of creamy sauce, mild Italian herbs, and fresh spinach creates a well-balanced meal that feels indulgent without being overly complicated. Plus, it’s a complete meal in one pan—protein, veggies, and carbs—all cooked together for minimal prep and cleanup. Need more reasons? Here are a few:

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Customizable: Swap ingredients based on what you have on hand.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Loved by kids and adults alike, with options to make it lighter or spicier.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Here’s a sneak peek at what you’ll need to create this delicious dish:

• Olive Oil: For sautéing and adding richness to the dish.
• Chicken Breasts or Thighs: Cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
• Garlic and Onions: Essential for building flavor in the base of the dish.
• Italian Seasoning and Red Pepper Flakes: For a touch of herby goodness and optional heat.
• Chicken Broth: Adds depth to the sauce while cooking the pasta.
• Pasta: Penne works beautifully, but feel free to use your favorite type.
• Diced Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes bring a hint of acidity to balance the creaminess.
• Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half: Creates the luscious, velvety sauce.
• Cheese: Mozzarella for meltiness and Parmesan for a salty kick.
• Fresh Baby Spinach: Adds freshness and nutrients to the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add bite-sized chicken pieces, seasoning them generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until golden brown and fully cooked through (about 6–7 minutes). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
   In the same skillet, add chopped onions and cook until softened (about 3–4 minutes). Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes at this stage.
3. Cook the Pasta:
   Pour in chicken broth, diced tomatoes (with their juices), and uncooked pasta. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover, and let the pasta cook until tender (about 10–12 minutes). Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Create the Creamy Sauce:
   Once the pasta is cooked, stir in heavy cream and shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
5. Add Greens and Chicken:
   Toss in fresh baby spinach and the cooked chicken. Cook for another 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spinach wilts and the chicken is heated through.
6. Finish and Serve:
   Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top and serve warm. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe serves 4 people generously, making it ideal for families or meal prep.
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations to Try

Want to switch things up? Here are some ideas:

• Spicy Version: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a fiery kick.
• Cheese Swap: Experiment with cheddar, provolone, or a blend of Italian cheeses for a different flavor profile.
• Low-Carb Option: Replace traditional pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
• Add Veggies: Mushrooms, bell peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes make excellent additions.
• Pesto Twist: Stir in a spoonful of pesto at the end for a burst of herby freshness.

Save

Storage and Reheating Tips

Proper storage ensures your leftovers stay fresh and flavorful:

• Storage: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet with a splash of cream or broth to keep the sauce smooth and creamy.
• Freezing: While not ideal due to the dairy content, you can freeze this dish if needed. Just note that the texture may change slightly upon thawing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
A: Yes! Simply thaw and drain it well before adding it to the dish.

Q: What’s the best type of pasta for this dish?
A: Penne, rotini, or bowtie pasta work wonderfully because they hold onto the sauce nicely.

Q: Can I use rotisserie chicken?
A: Absolutely! It’s a great time-saver. Just shred or chop the chicken and add it toward the end of cooking.

Q: How can I make this dish lighter?
A: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese.

Q: Is this dish gluten-free?
A: It can be! Simply swap regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free option.

Q: Can I add mushrooms?
A: Yes! Sauté them with the onions for added flavor and texture.

Q: How do I keep the pasta from getting mushy?
A: Don’t overcook it—check the pasta a couple of minutes before the suggested cook time.

Q: Can I use milk instead of cream?
A: You can, but the sauce will be thinner. Whole milk works best for a creamier result.

Q: How long does this dish keep?
A: Up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container in the fridge.

Q: Can I add more greens?
A: Definitely! Kale or arugula can be added alongside or instead of spinach.

Conclusion

This Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta is a comforting, flavorful dish that checks all the boxes for a quick, satisfying dinner. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and nutrient-packed spinach, it’s a meal that’s as nourishing as it is delicious. Best of all, it’s flexible enough to adapt to your preferences or pantry staples. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or prepping meals for the week, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

So grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of pure comfort!