Creamy Spinach And Chicken Pasta

Name: Creamy Spinach And Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 ounces pasta of your choice; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced; 3 cups fresh spinach; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Classics Reimagined

I absolutely love this Creamy Spinach And Chicken Pasta recipe! It's become a go-to favorite in our household for weeknight dinners. The creamy sauce combined with tender chicken and fresh spinach creates a delicious balance of flavors and textures. I always keep a stash of pasta on hand, making this dish not only satisfying but also super quick to whip up on busy evenings. Trust me, once you try it, you won’t want to cook pasta any other way!

Created by

Marley Quinn

Last updated on 2026-02-15T06:05:35.978Z

When I first attempted this creamy pasta, I was looking for a comforting dinner that wouldn’t take up my entire evening. I decided to combine classic ingredients like chicken and spinach with a rich cream sauce, which turned out to be a winning combination. The key is to sauté the chicken until golden and add the spinach at just the right moment to keep its vibrant color and nutrients.

To elevate the dish, I recommend using freshly grated Parmesan cheese right before serving. It melts beautifully into the sauce and enhances the overall flavor. I always serve this pasta with a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for a delightful kick!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Lush, creamy sauce that clings perfectly to your pasta
Hearty chicken and fresh spinach make a balanced meal
Quick preparation makes it ideal for busy weeknights

The Importance of Timing and Heat

Timing is crucial when preparing this Creamy Spinach And Chicken Pasta. As the chicken cooks, be mindful of its doneness; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption. During the sautéing phase, stirring frequently will help ensure the chicken develops a golden crust without burning, which usually takes about 6-8 minutes. This technique also allows the chicken to maintain its tenderness while absorbing flavors from the olive oil and spices.

When adding the spinach and garlic, I recommend lowering the heat slightly to medium-low. This ensures the garlic becomes fragrant without burning, which can turn bitter. Look for the spinach to wilt down significantly, about 2-3 minutes, indicating it's ready for the cream. This visual cue helps maintain a vibrant green color in your dish and maximizes nutritional benefits.

Choosing the Right Pasta and Variations

For this recipe, the choice of pasta can make a notable difference in texture and overall experience. Short pasta shapes like penne or fusilli are excellent choices, as their ridges and curves help hold the creamy sauce beautifully. However, feel free to swap in whole grain or gluten-free pasta for a healthier or allergy-friendly alternative. Just remember to cook these variations slightly longer, as they often require extra cooking time.

To add more depth to your dish, consider incorporating sun-dried tomatoes or artichoke hearts along with the spinach. Not only do they contribute an extra layer of flavor, but they also complement the creamy sauce wonderfully. If you want a bit more heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the dish without overpowering the rich creaminess.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delicious dish.

Ingredients

8 ounces pasta of your choice
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
3 cups fresh spinach
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Once prepared, you’ll have a hearty meal that everyone will love.

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Creamy Spinach And Chicken Pasta.

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, approximately 6-8 minutes.

Add Spinach and Garlic

Add minced garlic and fresh spinach to the skillet. Sauté until the spinach wilts, about 2-3 minutes.

Make the Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and incorporated.

Combine and Serve

Add the drained pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Adjust seasoning as needed and serve warm.

Enjoy your meal with a side of garlic bread!

Pro Tips

For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream. You can also add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor.

Storage and Reheating

This Creamy Spinach And Chicken Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When storing, try to separate the pasta from the sauce if possible to prevent it from absorbing too much moisture and becoming mushy. If you find the sauce thickens after refrigeration, simply reheat it gently over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to restore its creamy consistency.

For freezing, it's best to do this before combining the pasta with the sauce. The chicken and sauce can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop, adding cooked pasta at the last minute. This ensures the final dish retains its original texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this pasta dish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or parsley for an added touch of freshness and color. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top enhances the rich flavors and provides a delightful hint of nutty saltiness. Pair it with a light side salad dressed with a vinaigrette to balance the creaminess of the pasta, creating a well-rounded meal.

For those who enjoy a crunch, consider adding toasted pine nuts or walnuts as a garnish. Their nutty flavor and crispy texture create a wonderful contrast with the creamy sauce. You could also serve it with garlic bread to soak up the remaining sauce, ensuring nothing goes to waste!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just thaw it completely and drain any excess water before adding it to the dish.

→ What pasta works best for this recipe?

Any pasta works well, but I recommend using fettuccine or penne for optimal sauce retention.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead. Just reheat gently and add the pasta just before serving.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Cool leftovers to room temperature, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or microwave.