Chicken Spinach Pasta is a delicious and balanced meal that combines tender chicken, fresh spinach, and pasta all coated in a creamy sauce. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a hearty lunch, offering a nutritious and satisfying flavor profile.
Chicken Spinach Pasta
Why This Chicken Spinach Pasta Is the Best
- Rich and Creamy Sauce: The creamy sauce perfectly coats the penne pasta and chicken, providing a rich and indulgent flavor.
- Tender Chicken: The pieces of chicken are cooked until tender, adding a satisfying protein component to the dish.
- Fresh Spinach: The spinach adds color, texture, and nutrition to the pasta, making it a well-rounded meal.
- Hearty Pasta: Penne pasta is ideal for holding onto the sauce, making each bite satisfying and delicious.
- Beautiful Presentation: Garnished with black pepper and possibly other herbs, this dish is visually appealing and perfect for any occasion.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight meal, hosting a dinner party, or looking for a comforting and flavorful dinner option, Chicken Spinach Pasta is the perfect choice. The combination of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and fresh spinach makes it a crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredient Notes
- Chicken Breasts: Lean and tender, seasoned simply with salt and pepper for balanced flavor.
- Penne Pasta: Perfect for holding creamy sauces, creating a satisfying base for the dish.
- Milk and Flour: Form a light, creamy base for the sauce while keeping it lighter than traditional cream sauces.
- Cream Cheese: Adds a touch of richness and creaminess to the sauce.
- Pesto: Infuses the dish with a burst of herby, garlicky, and nutty flavors.
- Baby Spinach: Adds a fresh, vibrant element and a nutrient boost.
- Parmesan Cheese: Enhances the sauce with a savory, nutty flavor.
- Parsley: Finely chopped, it offers a bright, fresh garnish to balance the richness.
Tips for Making the Best Chicken Spinach Pasta
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh chicken, spinach, and high-quality pasta.
- Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the herbs and spices – they add a lot of flavor to the dish.
- Cook Chicken Evenly: Ensure the chicken is cooked evenly to achieve a tender and juicy texture.
- Add Spinach Last: Add the spinach towards the end of cooking to maintain its vibrant color and texture.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Top the dish with fresh parsley or basil for added flavor and visual appeal.
Serving Suggestions
- With Garlic Bread: Serve Chicken Spinach Pasta with garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- With a Side Salad: Add a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette for a balanced meal.
- With Steamed Vegetables: Include steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus for added nutrition.
- With Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges for a refreshing and tangy contrast.
- With Grated Parmesan Cheese: Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness.
A Must Try
Imagine digging into this Chicken Spinach Pasta—each bite filled with tender chicken, hearty pasta, and fresh spinach, all coated in a rich and creamy sauce. Whether you’re sharing it with family and friends or enjoying it on your own, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home. Gather your ingredients and create a meal that’s both satisfying and delicious. You’ll love sharing this comforting dish with loved ones and making special moments even more memorable!
Be sure to check out these other delicious pasta recipes!
Chicken Spinach Pasta
Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight meal, hosting a dinner party, or looking for a comforting and flavorful dinner option, Chicken Spinach Pasta is the perfect choice.
Ingredients
- 1 lb penne pasta dry
- 1.5 lbs chicken breasts boneless and skinless
- 2 cups milk whole or 2%
- 4 large handfuls baby spinach
- 2 tablespoon flour all-purpose whole wheat or gluten free
- 2-3 tablespoon cream cheese
- 3 tablespoon pesto
- 1 tablespoon olive oil extra virgin
- 3 tablespoon Parmesan cheese grated
- 2 tablespoon parsley finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt plus more for chicken
- Ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, but pull it off the heat a few minutes early so it’s al dente. Drain it and set it aside.
- While the pasta cooks, warm up a large Dutch oven or deep skillet over medium heat and add a swirl of oil to coat the bottom.
- Sprinkle salt and pepper on the chicken breasts, then place them in the pan. Let them cook for about 4–5 minutes on each side until fully cooked.
- Take the chicken out, let it rest on a cutting board for a few minutes, and then slice it thinly.
- In a small bowl, mix the milk and flour together until smooth. Pour this into the pot and cook for about 2 minutes, stirring, until it starts to thicken.
- Add the cream cheese and pesto, stirring constantly, until everything melts into a creamy sauce.
- Toss the drained pasta, sliced chicken, and fresh spinach into the pot. Gently stir everything together until the spinach wilts.
- Finish it off with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, a touch of parsley, and some freshly cracked black pepper.
- Serve right away and enjoy!
Notes
- To store leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing isn’t the best option for pasta dishes, so it’s best to enjoy it fresh.
- Feel free to use any type of pasta you like—white, whole wheat, or gluten-free. Short shapes like bow ties or fusilli work great for this recipe!
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Chicken Spinach Pasta