Looking for a satisfying dish that brings together tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and perfectly cooked pasta? This creamy spinach and chicken pasta is the answer. It’s a delightful mix of flavors that feels indulgent yet is simple enough for any weeknight meal.
This recipe takes basic pantry ingredients and elevates them into something extraordinary. The creamy sauce envelops the chicken and spinach, making every bite a burst of flavor, and the best part? It’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Quick and Delicious Spinach Chicken Pasta
This creamy spinach and chicken pasta is a comforting meal that combines juicy chicken, fresh spinach, and perfectly cooked pasta in a rich, creamy sauce.
The dish balances savory notes with a hint of tanginess, while the vibrant green spinach brings a refreshing aspect to every bite. It’s not only satisfying but also visually appealing, making it perfect for any dining occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is the first step toward creating this delightful dish. You’ll need pasta, diced chicken, fresh spinach, garlic, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese.
Adding salt, pepper, and optional garnishes like red pepper flakes and fresh basil will enhance the flavor profile. This combination of ingredients creates a rich and hearty meal without needing an extensive shopping list.
Preparation Time
This pasta dish can be ready in under 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for weeknights when time is of the essence. The preparation requires only 10 minutes, while cooking takes an additional 15 minutes.
This quick turnaround means you can enjoy a delicious homemade meal without the stress of a long wait, allowing for a more enjoyable dining experience.
Cooking Method: Step by Step
Start by cooking the pasta in boiling salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, and add the diced chicken seasoned with salt and pepper. Sauté until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Then, incorporate the minced garlic and chopped spinach, cooking until the spinach wilts.
Bringing It All Together
Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Season with extra salt and pepper to taste, along with red pepper flakes if you desire a touch of heat.
Finally, add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until well combined and heated through. This simple combining step melds the flavors beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Plate the creamy spinach and chicken pasta in rustic bowls for a charming presentation. Garnish with fresh basil and additional Parmesan cheese to elevate the dish’s appeal.
The warm, inviting atmosphere created by the wooden table setting highlights the rustic charm of this meal, making it a delightful addition to any table setting. Enjoy this comforting dish with family and friends for a fulfilling dining experience.
Quick and Delicious Spinach Chicken Pasta
This creamy spinach and chicken pasta is a comforting dish featuring juicy chicken pieces, fresh spinach, and pasta tossed in a rich and luscious cream sauce. It’s a balance of savory and slightly tangy, with the spinach adding a refreshing touch.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine works well)
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes for garnish (optional)
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Spinach and Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and chopped spinach, cooking until the spinach wilts, about 2-3 minutes.
- Make the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with more salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
- Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh basil and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 540kcal
- Fat: 30g
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 45g