Creamy Spinach Chicken Pasta

Name: Creamy Spinach Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz pasta (fettuccine or penne); Salt for boiling water; 1 lb chicken breast, diced; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Home Planning

I adore this Creamy Spinach Chicken Pasta because it combines comfort food with a touch of elegance. The creamy sauce, made from scratch, clings beautifully to the tender pasta, while the spinach adds both color and health benefits. Plus, the chicken brings in a protein boost that makes this dish a complete meal. I often whip it up on busy weeknights or when I want to impress guests with minimal effort. Trust me, you won't be able to resist the rich flavors and inviting aroma!

Created by

Portia Langford

Last updated on 2026-02-02T02:05:35.308Z

When I first made this Creamy Spinach Chicken Pasta, I wasn't sure how the flavors would meld together, but it turned out to be a fantastic culinary adventure! The secret lies in using fresh spinach and a good-quality cream; they elevate the dish's taste and texture. Each component complements the others beautifully, and the result is a delightful balance of richness and freshness.

I remember serving this dish to friends during a casual dinner, and they couldn’t stop raving about it! One tip I always share is to reserve some pasta water; adding a splash helps the sauce adhere better and enhances its silkiness.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Indulgent creamy sauce that comforts the soul
Nutritious spinach packed with vitamins
Easy to make yet impressive enough for guests

Mastering the Creamy Sauce

The creamy sauce in this dish is the star, and achieving the perfect consistency is crucial. When combining the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, keep the heat on medium-low to avoid scalding the cream, which can lead to a less appealing texture. Stir constantly until the sauce becomes glossy and coats the back of a spoon. If it thickens too quickly, don’t hesitate to add a splash of chicken broth or reserved pasta water slowly, stirring until you reach your desired creaminess.

The role of garlic cannot be understated in this recipe; it adds depth and aroma. Sauté it gently until fragrant—about one minute—before adding the broth. Overcooking garlic can lead to bitterness, so timing here is essential. You can also experiment with adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of white wine after sautéing the garlic for an extra layer of flavor.

Perfecting the Pasta

Choosing the right pasta is critical for this dish. I recommend using fettuccine or penne, as their shapes hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully. Be sure to cook the pasta in plenty of salted water to enhance its flavor. For the best texture, follow the package instructions carefully; most pasta should be cooked until al dente, which means it will still have a slight bite. Timing is key, so set a timer a couple of minutes before the suggested cooking time to avoid overcooking.

If you're making this dish ahead of time, consider undercooking the pasta slightly. The residual heat from the creamy sauce will finish cooking it when mixed together. To prevent the pasta from clumping, toss it with a bit of olive oil after draining it. This simple trick helps to keep the pasta separate until you're ready to serve.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

12 oz pasta (fettuccine or penne)
Salt for boiling water

For the Creamy Sauce

1 lb chicken breast, diced
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and combined.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the fresh spinach and cooked chicken, cooking until the spinach wilts. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.

Mix with Pasta

Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing until well coated with the creamy sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary before serving.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Spinach Chicken Pasta is a complete meal, but you can elevate it further by serving it alongside a fresh salad or crusty garlic bread. A simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta beautifully. If you want to add more veggies, consider tossing steamed broccoli or sautéed mushrooms into the mix before serving for added texture and nutrition.

To impress guests, try garnishing the dish with additional grated Parmesan and freshly cracked black pepper. You can also sprinkle some pine nuts or toasted breadcrumbs on top for a bit of crunch that contrasts with the creamy sauce. These small details can make a huge difference in presentation.

Make-Ahead and Storage

You can definitely make this dish ahead of time. Cook the pasta and prepare the sauce separately, then combine them just before serving to maintain optimal texture. If you've made it all in advance, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce as needed.

Unfortunately, the creamy sauce does not freeze well due to its dairy content, which can separate when thawing. However, you can freeze the cooked chicken and spinach separately along with the pasta. When you're ready to enjoy the dish, simply defrost them in the refrigerator overnight, sauté the chicken and spinach together, and follow with the sauce preparation for a quick meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach, but make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess water in the sauce.

→ What other proteins can I use in this recipe?

You can substitute chicken with shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

→ Is there a way to make this dish lighter?

You can use half-and-half or a lower-fat cream alternative, and substitute whole grain pasta for extra fiber.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.