Best Chicken Spinach Penne Recipe

Chicken Spinach Penne Pasta is a hearty and satisfying dish that perfectly balances protein, vegetables, and carbs. It’s a comforting recipe that’s easy enough for a weeknight but delicious enough to serve to guests. With juicy chicken, nutrient-rich spinach, perfectly cooked penne, and a creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce, it brings together bold flavors and smooth textures in every bite.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook according to package directions until al dente (usually 9–11 minutes). Drain the pasta and set aside. Drizzle with a little olive oil to prevent sticking if you aren’t using it immediately.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Slice chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces or thin strips.

2. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

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3. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

4. Add chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C), about 5–7 minutes.

5. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In the same skillet, add butter and a touch of olive oil if needed.

2. Sauté chopped onions for about 2 minutes until translucent.

3. Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

4. Add sliced mushrooms (if using) and cook for 3–5 minutes until softened.

5. Add spinach and stir until wilted (about 2–3 minutes).

Step 4: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

1. Sprinkle flour over the cooked vegetables (if using) and stir for 1 minute to eliminate raw taste.

2. Slowly pour in chicken broth while stirring, scraping up brown bits from the skillet bottom.

3. Add heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

4. Stir in Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes. Let simmer until the sauce thickens slightly, about 5–7 minutes.

5. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine Everything

1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with sauce.

2. Add drained penne pasta and toss everything together to coat evenly.

3. Simmer for 2–3 minutes on low heat to let the flavors blend.

4. Remove from heat and allow to sit for 5 minutes before serving.

Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Options:

  • Use grilled chicken, rotisserie chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage.

  • For a vegetarian version, replace chicken with white beans or tofu.

• Dairy-Free Options:

  • Use coconut cream or a dairy-free heavy cream alternative.

  • Replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast or vegan cheese.

• Gluten-Free:

  • Use gluten-free pasta.

  • Skip the flour or use gluten-free flour for thickening.

• Add More Veggies:

  • Cherry tomatoes, zucchini, bell peppers, broccoli, or kale work well.

• Extra Flavor Boost:

  • Add a splash of white wine or lemon juice to the sauce.

  • Use fresh basil or parsley as garnish.

Cooking Tips

• Avoid Overcooking Pasta: Al dente pasta has the best texture and holds up well when combined with sauce.

• Cut Chicken Evenly: Uniform pieces ensure even cooking.

• Don’t Burn the Garlic: It turns bitter—add it just before the liquids.

• Use Fresh Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese may not melt smoothly.

• Layer the Seasoning: Season at each stage—for chicken, sauce, and final dish.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair With:

  • Garlic bread or focaccia

  • A fresh green salad (arugula or Caesar)

  • Steamed asparagus or roasted vegetables

• Wine Pairing:

  • A crisp white like Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay complements the creaminess.

  • For red, a light-bodied Pinot Noir works well.

• Garnish Ideas:

  • Chopped fresh parsley

  • Lemon zest

  • Crushed red pepper for heat

Nutritional Information (Estimated Per Serving)

Serves 4–6 people.

• Calories: 620 kcal

• Protein: 35g

• Fat: 28g (Saturated: 14g)

• Carbohydrates: 55g

• Fiber: 4g

• Sodium: 540mg

• Sugars: 3g

Note: Values will vary based on substitutions and portion sizes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes. Use 1 cup of frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry. Add during the sauté step.

Q: How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of cream or broth.

Q: Can I freeze this pasta?

It can be frozen, but the texture of the cream sauce may change slightly. Freeze in airtight containers for up to 1 month.

Q: Is this spicy?

Only mildly, from red pepper flakes. You can omit them for a milder version.

Conclusion

Chicken Spinach Penne Pasta is a versatile and deeply satisfying dish that combines wholesome ingredients into one creamy, flavorful meal. It’s easy to adapt to your dietary needs and pantry staples, making it a go-to dinner for busy nights or special occasions. By following the techniques outlined above, you’ll master a restaurant-quality dish from the comfort of your kitchen.