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: 300g pasta (fettuccine or penne); 2 chicken breasts, diced; 2 cups fresh spinach; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love making Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta during busy weeknights because it's quick and satisfying. This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those evenings when time is of the essence but you still want something delicious. The combination of tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a rich creamy sauce over pasta creates a comforting meal that feels like a treat. It's become a favorite in our household, and I can't wait for you to try it too!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-20T14:58:28.081Z

When I first tried making Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta, I was amazed at how quickly it came together without compromising flavor. The secret to this dish is cooking the chicken until it's golden brown, which adds depth to the sauce. Using fresh ingredients makes all the difference!

One night, I added a pinch of nutmeg to the cream sauce, and it transformed the dish into something remarkable. I recommend being creative with seasonings to elevate these classic flavors. Pair it with a side salad, and dinner is sorted!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy and rich sauce that coats each pasta strand perfectly
Fresh spinach adds a burst of color and nutrients
Quick to prepare, ideal for family dinners or last-minute gatherings

      

The Perfect Pasta Choice

Choosing the right pasta is crucial for achieving the perfect creamy coating. Fettuccine or penne works wonderfully here due to their ability to hold onto the sauce. Fettuccine's flat surface maximizes the creamy texture, while penne's tubular shape ensures every bite is filled with flavor. I recommend sticking to these options to get the best results, but if you're in a pinch, other short pastas like fusilli or rotini can also do the trick. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as needed.

When cooking the pasta, make sure the water is well-salted—this is your opportunity to enhance the flavor right from the start. It should taste like the ocean! Keep a close eye on the timer to prevent overcooking; pasta should be tender but still firm to the bite, or 'al dente.' Draining the pasta at just the right moment ensures a perfect texture that pairs well with the sauce.

Chicken and Spinach Techniques

Perfectly sautéed chicken adds a delightful texture to your dish, ensuring it remains tender and flavorful. When cooking the chicken, make sure it's cut into uniform pieces to promote even cooking, allowing them to brown nicely on all sides. Overcrowding the pan can lead to steaming instead of searing, so work in batches if necessary. A good tip is to allow the chicken to sit undisturbed for a few minutes; this helps create a golden crust on the pieces.

The incorporation of fresh spinach not only enhances the dish's nutrition but also adds visual appeal. To preserve its vibrant green color, add the spinach towards the end of mixing in other ingredients. You want it just wilted but still bright. Cooking it too long can lead to a mushy texture and loss of nutrients. If you're not a fan of spinach, other greens like kale or arugula can be substituted, bearing in mind that tougher greens may require a slightly longer cooking time.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta makes for excellent leftovers! If you anticipate having leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or a bit of pasta water to loosen the sauce, which tends to thicken in the fridge, ensuring a creamy texture upon serving.

For serving, consider pairing this dish with a simple side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also elevate the dish by adding other ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes for a hint of sweetness or toasted pine nuts for added crunch and nuttiness. These variations not only enhance the flavor but also add an interesting texture that takes this meal to the next level.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for your Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta:

Ingredients

300g pasta (fettuccine or penne)
2 chicken breasts, diced
2 cups fresh spinach
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Ensure everything is ready before you start cooking for a smoother process!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your pasta dish:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook 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 diced chicken, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.

Add Garlic and Spinach

Stir in minced garlic, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the fresh spinach, stirring until wilted.

Make the Cream Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream, reducing heat to low. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and combined. Mix the cooked pasta into the sauce, fully coating the noodles.

Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning if required. Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of black pepper.

Enjoy your homemade meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider incorporating sun-dried tomatoes or mushrooms into the dish. Fresh herbs like basil can also brighten up the sauce beautifully.

Ingredient Substitution Tips

If you find yourself without heavy cream, a good alternative is using Greek yogurt mixed with a bit of milk for creaminess without the calories. This swap makes the dish lighter but still delicious. Additionally, if you're looking for a dairy-free option, cashew cream or coconut milk can serve as substitutes that provide a rich texture, although the flavor may vary slightly.

Another possible swap includes using your favorite cheese in lieu of Parmesan. Pecorino Romano offers a sharper taste, while Gruyère can provide a nutty undertone that pairs well with the dish. Just be mindful of the salt content; various cheeses can significantly alter the seasoning needed for the final dish.

Common Troubleshooting

One common issue people face with creamy sauces is them becoming too thick. If you find this happening, simply add a little more cream or pasta cooking water to adjust the consistency. Stir gently and allow it to heat through without bringing it to a boil, which can further thicken the sauce. Keeping your heat on low while combining ingredients will help maintain the desired texture without overcooking.

Another troubleshooting tip involves preventing curdling when adding cheese to the sauce. To avoid this, ensure the heat is low and avoid boiling the cream mixture once the cheese has been incorporated—this can cause the proteins in the cheese to separate. Stir gently until melted, and you should have a smooth and creamy sauce that clings beautifully to your pasta.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute with any pasta of your choice, such as spaghetti, penne, or even gluten-free pasta.

→ How can I make this dish lighter?

To lighten this recipe, you can use half and half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce and chicken in advance and then simply heat and combine with cooked pasta when ready to serve.

→ What can I pair with this pasta dish?

A side salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta to complete your meal.