This creamy chicken spinach pasta is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a rich, creamy sauce. It’s like a warm hug on a plate!
Cooking it is super simple! Just sauté the chicken, add the spinach, and mix in the creamy sauce with pasta. Easy peasy! Plus, it’s perfect for impressing friends—everyone loves it!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I like using gemelli for its unique shape that holds the sauce well. You can swap it for any short pasta like penne or fusilli. If you want a lower-carb option, spiralized zucchini or cauliflower rice works too!
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great, but you can use thighs for more flavor. If you’re vegetarian, chickpeas or tofu are excellent substitutes.
Heavy Cream: Heavy cream gives that rich texture, but you can use half-and-half or a mix of yogurt and milk for a lighter option. Coconut cream is a good dairy-free alternative.
Spinach: Fresh baby spinach is my favorite, but you can use frozen spinach—just thaw and drain it first. Kale is another option if you want a heartier green.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a delightful flavor, but Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast can be used for a dairy-free option.
How Do You Cook Chicken Perfectly Every Time?
The chicken can make or break this dish, so here’s how to get it right. Start by making sure your skillet is hot, so the chicken sears nicely.
- Cut your chicken into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Season well with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if needed—this allows for better browning.
- Check for doneness—you want a nice golden-brown color and no pink inside. An internal temp of 165°F is best.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Spinach Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz pasta (gemelli or other short pasta)
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized chunks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 4 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or mix of basil, oregano, thyme)
- Additional Parmesan for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for guests. Ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (cooked but still firm to the bite). Afterward, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Cook the Chicken:
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s golden brown and fully cooked. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the mushrooms become tender and the garlic is fragrant. Then, add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until it wilts, which should take around 2 minutes.
4. Make the Cream Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring well to combine everything. Next, add the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Stir the mixture until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes creamy, which will take about 3-5 minutes.
5. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, and stir to coat it in the creamy sauce. Then, add the cooked pasta to the skillet and gently toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
6. Adjust and Serve:
Taste your dish and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if desired. Serve immediately, topped with extra grated Parmesan and freshly cracked black pepper for an added touch of flavor.
Enjoy your delicious creamy chicken spinach pasta! It’s a hearty meal that everyone will love!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great option for added fiber and nutrition. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package directions, as whole wheat pasta can take a little longer to cook.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a mixture of plain yogurt and milk to achieve a creamy texture. For dairy-free alternatives, coconut cream or almond milk can work well, though the flavor will be slightly different.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen the sauce as necessary.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes! This recipe is versatile, so feel free to add other vegetables you like, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli. Just be sure to sauté them until they’re tender before adding the cream sauce.
