Flavorful Spinach Chicken Pasta Recipe

Spinach Chicken Pasta is a versatile and flavorful dish that combines the freshness of spinach with the richness of chicken and pasta. It’s a satisfying meal that brings together hearty, savory ingredients, creating a balanced and nourishing meal. The creamy sauce that envelops the pasta enhances the texture, while the spinach adds an earthy note and a vibrant green color.

This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a comforting weeknight meal or something a little more refined for a special occasion. The key to a truly delicious spinach chicken pasta is the right balance of flavors, from the savory chicken to the delicate, earthy spinach and the creamy, tangy sauce.

Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken

1. Season the Chicken: Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Drizzle a bit of lemon juice over the chicken to add brightness.

2. Cook the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest while you prepare the sauce.

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Step 2: Cooking the Pasta

1. Boil the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions, usually 8-10 minutes, or until al dente.

2. Drain the Pasta: Once cooked, drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water. Set both the pasta and water aside.

Step 3: Preparing the Spinach Cream Sauce

1. Cook the Garlic: In the same skillet you used for the chicken, add a tablespoon of butter. Over medium heat, sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.

2. Add the Spinach: Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and sauté until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. If the pan looks too dry, add a splash of chicken broth to help the spinach cook down.

3. Make the Cream Sauce: Once the spinach is wilted, add the heavy cream, chicken broth, and cream cheese to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth.

4. Add Cheese and Seasonings: Stir in the grated parmesan cheese, and season with a pinch of nutmeg, salt, pepper, and lemon zest. Continue stirring until the sauce is thick and creamy.

Step 4: Bringing Everything Together

1. Slice the Chicken: While the sauce is simmering, slice the cooked chicken into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.

2. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the cream sauce. Toss to combine, adding a bit of the reserved pasta water if needed to thin the sauce to your desired consistency.

3. Add the Chicken: Add the sliced chicken to the pasta and stir gently to combine everything. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to ensure everything is well-coated in the creamy sauce.

4. Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with additional parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired. Serve immediately.

Variations of Spinach Chicken Pasta

1. Spinach Chicken Pasta with Mushrooms

For a heartier dish, add sautéed mushrooms to the spinach cream sauce. The mushrooms will absorb the rich cream sauce, giving the dish a deep, earthy flavor.

2. Spinach Chicken Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for an extra layer of umami flavor and a touch of sweetness. This variation works beautifully with the richness of the cream.

3. Spinach Chicken Pasta with Bacon

Crispy bacon adds a savory crunch to the dish. Crumble cooked bacon into the pasta after it’s combined with the sauce for a smoky, crunchy contrast.

4. Spinach Chicken Pasta with Pesto

For a fresh and herby twist, swap some of the heavy cream for pesto sauce. The basil and garlic in the pesto complement the spinach and chicken, creating a fragrant and flavorful dish.

5. Gluten-Free Spinach Chicken Pasta

If you prefer a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta and ensure the other ingredients, such as the cream and chicken broth, are free from gluten. You can make this variation without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Tips for the Perfect Spinach Chicken Pasta

1. Don’t Overcook the Chicken

Make sure the chicken is juicy and tender by cooking it just until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Overcooking will result in dry chicken.

2. Use Fresh Spinach

Fresh spinach wilts beautifully in the sauce, adding a pleasant texture and bright color. If using frozen spinach, be sure to thaw and drain it properly to avoid excess moisture in the sauce.

3. Season the Sauce to Taste

As you make the cream sauce, taste it and adjust the seasonings. A pinch of salt, a squeeze of lemon juice, or a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper can really elevate the dish.

4. Save Pasta Water

The reserved pasta water is a secret ingredient to help adjust the sauce’s consistency and ensure it sticks to the pasta. The starchy water helps bind the sauce and pasta together.

5. Use Freshly Grated Parmesan

While pre-grated parmesan is convenient, freshly grated parmesan will give your sauce a better texture and flavor.

How to Pair Your Pasta with Drinks

Spinach chicken pasta pairs well with a variety of beverages, from wines to non-alcoholic options:

• White Wine: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the creaminess of the dish without overpowering the flavors.
• Rosé Wine: The acidity and fruitiness of a dry rosé work well with the rich cream sauce.
• Sparkling Water: If you prefer a non-alcoholic drink, sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon adds a refreshing contrast.
• Iced Tea: A slightly sweetened iced tea with lemon balances the richness of the pasta.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

1. Lumpy Sauce

• Cause: Adding cream too quickly or cooking at too high of a temperature.
• Solution: Add cream gradually over medium heat, stirring constantly, and keep the heat moderate to avoid curdling.

2. Overcooked Spinach

• Cause: Overcooking spinach can make it soggy and bitter.
• Solution: Add the spinach at the last minute and sauté until just wilted.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used for a richer flavor and slightly more tender meat.

Can I use frozen spinach?

Frozen spinach can be used, but be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding it to the sauce.

Conclusion

Spinach Chicken Pasta is an easy-to-make, flavorful, and versatile dish that brings together fresh ingredients in a creamy, satisfying way. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight meal or a special dinner for guests, this recipe is sure to be a hit. With the right balance of flavors, textures, and seasonings, this dish becomes an instant favorite in any home kitchen.

Yield: 4

Flavorful Spinach Chicken Pasta Recipe

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Spinach Chicken Pasta is a versatile and flavorful dish that combines the freshness of spinach with the richness of chicken and pasta. It's a satisfying meal that brings together hearty, savory ingredients, creating a balanced and nourishing meal. The creamy sauce that envelops the pasta enhances the texture, while the spinach adds an earthy note and a vibrant green color.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb), cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 4 cups fresh spinach (or 5-6 cups if using baby spinach)
• 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your favorite)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, drain, and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and dried basil. Add the chicken to the pan and cook for 5-7 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the minced garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for another 30 seconds.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer, cooking for about 2-3 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Add Spinach: Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until wilted.
6. Combine Chicken and Pasta: Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet along with the pasta. Stir everything together to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
7. Add Parmesan: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and coat the pasta and chicken with the sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve: Serve the pasta with a sprinkle of fresh chopped basil or parsley for a burst of color and fresh flavor.

Notes

• Protein Options: You can substitute the chicken with shrimp, turkey, or even grilled tofu for a different protein.
• Spinach Variations: If you don’t have fresh spinach, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before using it.
• Extra Flavor: For added flavor, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving or a handful of sun-dried tomatoes.
• Pasta Choices: This recipe works with almost any type of pasta, so feel free to use whatever you have on hand.