Chicken and Spinach Pasta

Chicken and Spinach Pasta is a hearty and wholesome dish that brings together tender chunks of chicken, vibrant baby spinach, and perfectly cooked pasta, all coated in a rich, creamy sauce. It’s the kind of easy, crowd-pleasing recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights but also feels a bit special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is simple to make, yet full of flavor. It’s a complete meal in one pan—protein, veggies, and carbs—all cooked together for easy prep and cleanup. The creaminess of the sauce combined with the mild spice of Italian herbs and the freshness of spinach creates a satisfying and well-balanced dish. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable depending on what you have on hand.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• olive oil
• boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• salt and black pepper
• garlic, minced
• onion, chopped
• Italian seasoning
• crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• chicken broth
• penne pasta (or your favorite type)
• canned diced tomatoes
• heavy cream or half-and-half
• shredded mozzarella cheese
• fresh baby spinach
• grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

1. In a large skillet or pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pan, sauté the chopped onion until soft, then add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
3. Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes (with juices), and uncooked pasta. Stir to combine and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook until pasta is tender, about 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Stir in the cream and mozzarella until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
6. Add spinach and cooked chicken. Cook for 2–3 minutes, until spinach is wilted and everything is heated through.
7. Finish with grated Parmesan and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
• Cheese Swap: Try using cheddar, provolone, or a blend of Italian cheeses.
• Low-Carb Option: Swap pasta for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
• Add Veggies: Mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or bell peppers go great in this dish.
• Pesto Twist: Stir in a spoonful of pesto at the end for a herby upgrade.

Storage/Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of cream or broth to keep the sauce smooth.
• This dish is not ideal for freezing due to the dairy content, but you can freeze it if needed—just note the texture may change slightly.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, just thaw and drain it well before adding it in.

What’s the best type of pasta for this dish?

Penne, rotini, or bowties work well—they hold the sauce nicely.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely. Add it in after the pasta is cooked and just heat it through.

How can I make this dish lighter?

Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and go lighter on the cheese.

Is this dish gluten-free?

It can be—just use your favorite gluten-free pasta.

Can I add mushrooms?

Yes, they’re a great addition. Sauté them with the onions.

How do I keep the pasta from getting mushy?

Don’t overcook—check it a couple of minutes before the suggested cook time.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

You can, but the sauce will be thinner. Whole milk works best for a creamier result.

How long does this dish keep?

Up to 4 days in the fridge when stored in an airtight container.

Can I add more greens?

Definitely—kale or arugula can be added with or instead of spinach.

Conclusion

Chicken and Spinach Pasta is a comforting, creamy dish that checks all the boxes for a quick, flavorful dinner. It’s easy to throw together and flexible enough to adapt to whatever ingredients you have on hand. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this dish is a delicious, reliable go-to.

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