Easy Chicken Spinach Pasta Recipe

Chicken spinach pasta is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, fresh spinach, and perfectly cooked pasta, all tossed in a light, creamy sauce. This recipe is not only quick and easy to prepare but also nutritious, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or a leisurely weekend dinner. In this guide, we will take you through the steps to create a delicious chicken spinach pasta dish, along with tips for success, variations, and serving suggestions.

Introduction to Chicken Spinach Pasta

Chicken spinach pasta is a versatile dish that offers a perfect balance of protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates. The combination of chicken and spinach provides essential nutrients, while the pasta serves as a hearty base that makes the dish satisfying. This recipe is customizable, allowing you to add your favorite ingredients, whether it’s different vegetables, cheeses, or spices.

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil Water: Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add a generous amount of salt (about 1-2 tablespoons) to the water to enhance the pasta’s flavor.
2. Add Pasta: Once boiling, add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. Drain and Set Aside: Once the pasta is cooked, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water and then drain the rest in a colander. Set the pasta aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

4. Heat Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
5. Season Chicken: While the oil is heating, season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
6. Cook Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Spinach

7. Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
8. Add Spinach: Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until wilted. You may need to add a splash of water to help it wilt.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

9. Return Chicken to Skillet: Once the spinach is wilted, return the cooked chicken to the skillet.
10. Add Cream and Cheese: Pour in the heavy cream and stir well to combine. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta cooking water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Combine Pasta with Sauce

11. Add Pasta: Gently fold in the cooked pasta, making sure to coat it well with the sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy mixture.
12. Season to Taste: Taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes as needed.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

13. Plate the Dish: Serve the chicken spinach pasta warm, garnished with additional grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil or parsley if desired.

Tips for Success

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach not only enhances the flavor but also adds nutritional value. If you can’t find fresh spinach, you can use frozen spinach, but make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the dish.
2. Cooking Chicken: Make sure to cut the chicken into evenly sized pieces to ensure even cooking. If you prefer, you can also use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time.
3. Pasta Cooking: Be careful not to overcook the pasta. It should be slightly firm since it will continue to cook when combined with the sauce.
4. Adjusting Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or even a non-dairy milk alternative. For a richer flavor, add more Parmesan cheese.
5. Add More Veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables to the mix, such as bell peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.

Variations of Chicken Spinach Pasta

Lemon Chicken Spinach Pasta

Add the juice and zest of one lemon to the cream sauce for a bright, refreshing flavor.

Pesto Chicken Spinach Pasta

Mix in 1/2 cup of pesto with the cream for a flavorful twist. This adds a rich basil flavor that complements the chicken and spinach beautifully.

Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta

Add a can of diced tomatoes or some tomato sauce to the cream mixture for a different flavor profile. This variation adds a delicious acidity that balances the richness.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken spinach pasta is delightful on its own, but you can enhance your meal with these serving suggestions:

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for dipping into the creamy sauce.
• Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with this dish.
• Wine Pairing: Enjoy your meal with a glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, which complements the flavors of the chicken and spinach.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use whole wheat pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great alternative and adds extra fiber to the dish.

2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

3. Can I freeze this pasta?
While it’s best fresh, you can freeze the cooked chicken spinach pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

4. What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half, Greek yogurt, or even a non-dairy cream alternative. Just be aware that using yogurt may change the texture slightly.

Conclusion

This Easy Chicken Spinach Pasta recipe is a quick, satisfying meal that’s packed with flavor and nutrition. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and fresh spinach create a perfect balance that everyone will love. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a delicious bowl of chicken spinach pasta tonight!

Yield: 4

Easy Chicken Spinach Pasta Recipe

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Chicken spinach pasta is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, fresh spinach, and perfectly cooked pasta, all tossed in a light, creamy sauce. This recipe is not only quick and easy to prepare but also nutritious, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or a leisurely weekend dinner. In this guide, we will take you through the steps to create a delicious chicken spinach pasta dish, along with tips for success, variations, and serving suggestions.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes

Total Time 30 minutes

Ingredients

• 8 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or your choice)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
   
2. Cook the Chicken:
   In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and black pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
   
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
   In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the fresh spinach and cherry tomatoes, cooking until the spinach wilts, about 2-3 minutes.
   
4. Combine Ingredients:
   Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the drained pasta and heavy cream, stirring to combine. If the mixture seems dry, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.
   
5. Add Cheese:
   Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until melted and well incorporated. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
   
6. Serve:
   Divide the chicken spinach pasta among plates or bowls. Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Notes

Protein Options: You can substitute the chicken with shrimp, turkey, or tofu for a different protein.

Add-Ins: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.