Name: Creamy Chicken Spinach Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 8 ounces pasta; 2 pieces boneless skinless chicken breasts; to taste Salt; to taste Pepper; 1 tablespoon butter; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 4 cloves garlic (minced); 1/3 cup chicken broth; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 cup heavy/whipping cream; 5 ounces fresh baby spinach; 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese

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There’s something nostalgic about a plate of Creamy Chicken Spinach Pasta. It reminds me of those cozy evenings spent in the kitchen, where the aroma of garlic and sautéed chicken would fill the air. Picture it: the sun setting outside, casting a warm glow, while I stirred together a delightful mix of flavors that would soon come together in a creamy sauce. This dish is not just a recipe; it’s a heartwarming creation that brings family and friends around the table. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and rich cream creates a harmony that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Every bite is a celebration of comforting flavors, making it a favorite for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
650 kcal

Protein:
35 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
32 g

Tools Used:
Skillet, Grater, Wooden Spoon, Large Pot, Frying Pan

What You’ll Enjoy About This Creamy Chicken Spinach Pasta

It’s Comfort Food at Its Best

When I think of Creamy Chicken Spinach Pasta, I immediately picture a comforting meal that warms the soul. The luscious cream sauce envelops each piece of pasta, creating a dish that feels both indulgent and satisfying. This isn’t just food; it’s a hug in a bowl. The creaminess paired with the freshness of spinach brings a delightful balance that makes it irresistible.

Quick and Easy to Make

We all have those days when time is of the essence, and that’s where this dish shines. With minimal prep and cooking time, Creamy Chicken Spinach Pasta can be on your table in no time. It’s perfect for those evenings when you want a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. You can whip it up quickly, leaving you more time to enjoy with loved ones.

Versatile Ingredients

The ingredients in this recipe are not just staples but are also versatile. The combination of chicken, spinach, and cream creates a symphony of flavors that can be adapted to suit various preferences. Want to add some sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy twist? Or perhaps throw in some mushrooms for an earthy depth? The possibilities are endless!

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special gathering, Creamy Chicken Spinach Pasta fits right in. It can be dressed up for a dinner party or kept simple for a family meal. The beautiful presentation with vibrant green spinach and the creamy sauce makes it appealing to the eye, ensuring that it’s a hit with guests.

Great for Meal Prep

This dish is also fantastic for meal prep. You can easily make a large batch and store it for later. The flavors meld beautifully as it sits, making it even tastier the next day. Just reheat, and you have a delightful lunch or dinner ready to go!

Kid-Friendly

If you’re looking for a dish that even picky eaters will love, Creamy Chicken Spinach Pasta is your friend. The creamy sauce and fun pasta shape make it appealing to children, while the spinach adds a nutritious punch. It’s a great way to sneak in some veggies without them even noticing!

Shopping List for Creamy Chicken Spinach Pasta

When it comes to the ingredients for Creamy Chicken Spinach Pasta, each one plays a vital role in creating the rich and satisfying dish we love. The combination of fresh ingredients ensures that every bite is full of flavor. The star players in this recipe are the chicken, spinach, and cream, which together create a delicious sauce that coats the pasta beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

8 ounces uncooked pasta
2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
Salt & pepper to taste
Flour for dredging
1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/3 cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 cup heavy/whipping cream
5 ounces fresh baby spinach
1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese

Directions for Creamy Chicken Spinach Pasta

Cooking Creamy Chicken Spinach Pasta is a straightforward and enjoyable process. You’ll find that once you gather your ingredients, the magic happens quickly. Follow these steps to create a delicious meal:

Start by bringing a large, salted pot of water to a boil. This is essential for cooking the pasta properly. Once it’s bubbling away, add the uncooked pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Make sure to stir it occasionally so it doesn’t stick together.
While the pasta is cooking, take your boneless skinless chicken breasts and cut them into bite-sized pieces. Season them generously with salt and pepper to enhance their flavor. Next, coat the chicken pieces lightly with flour. This adds a nice texture and helps thicken the sauce later on.
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the butter and olive oil. Once the butter has melted and the mixture is hot, carefully add the chicken pieces. Sauté them until they turn golden brown and are no longer pink on the inside, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Now it’s time to build the flavor! Remove the skillet from the heat and add the minced garlic, chicken broth, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and Italian seasoning. Stir everything together, making sure to scrape up any delicious brown bits from the bottom of the pan. Return the skillet to the heat and let it bubble for about a minute.
Next, add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, along with the cream and fresh spinach. Cook everything together for about 5 minutes, stirring gently until the spinach wilts down and the chicken is fully cooked through. If the sauce starts bubbling too vigorously, feel free to reduce the heat slightly.
By now, your pasta should be perfectly cooked. Drain it in a colander, then add the pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in that creamy goodness.
Finally, stir in the freshly grated parmesan cheese, letting it melt into the sauce. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. You want every bite to be flavorful and satisfying.
Serve your Creamy Chicken Spinach Pasta warm, garnished with extra parmesan if desired. Enjoy the wonderful medley of flavors and textures with your family or friends!

Things Worth Knowing

Quality Ingredients Matter: Using fresh spinach and high-quality cream can elevate the dish significantly. Always opt for ingredients that are as fresh as possible.
Cooking Pasta: Make sure to cook the pasta in plenty of salted water to enhance its flavor. This simple step can make a big difference.
Thickening the Sauce: If your sauce is too thin, let it simmer a bit longer. The heat will help thicken it naturally.
Resting Time: Allowing the finished dish to sit for a few minutes before serving lets the flavors meld together beautifully.

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

There’s always room for creativity in the kitchen! Here are some ways you can adapt Creamy Chicken Spinach Pasta to suit your tastes or dietary needs:

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat on the stove with a bit of extra cream or broth to loosen the sauce.
Freezing: This dish can be frozen, but the texture of the cream may change upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but if you do freeze it, reheating slowly is key.
Pairing: Serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. The freshness balances out the richness of the pasta.
Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead for a vegetarian delight.
Spice It Up: Add chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce to give it a spicy kick!
Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses like ricotta or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
Herbs: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or parsley to elevate the freshness of the dish.

Pairing Suggestions for Creamy Chicken Spinach Pasta

When serving Creamy Chicken Spinach Pasta, it’s all about complementing those rich flavors. Here are some great pairing ideas:

Garlic Bread: A classic side dish that’s perfect for soaking up that creamy sauce.
Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.
Wine Pairing: Pair with a chilled glass of white wine for a delightful contrast to the creamy texture.
Seasonal Vegetables: Roasted or sautéed seasonal vegetables make an excellent addition for color and nutrition.
Occasions: This dish is perfect for family dinners, date nights, or even festive gatherings.
Leftover Lunch: The flavors of this dish hold up well, making it great for lunch the next day.
Comfort Food Night: Serve this on a cozy night in, paired with your favorite movie for the ultimate comfort meal.

FAQ

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time. Just store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the sauce and cook the pasta for a couple of minutes. This way, you can enjoy a quick and delicious meal without much fuss!

This dish pairs well with garlic bread or a simple green salad. The freshness of the salad complements the rich flavors of the pasta, making it a well-rounded meal. You could also serve it with roasted vegetables for a nutritious side.

Absolutely! While this recipe calls for traditional pasta, you can use any variety you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta. Just make sure to adjust cooking times according to the type of pasta you choose.

Yes! To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the chicken with chickpeas or tofu. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious plant-based meal that maintains all the creamy flavors.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken Spinach Pasta is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that makes it a standout dish. With its rich and creamy sauce, it’s sure to impress anyone at your dinner table. I encourage you to try making it for your next meal; it’s quick, easy, and absolutely delicious!