This Chicken Spinach Pasta is a creamy, comforting, and easy weeknight meal that comes together quickly with simple ingredients. Packed with tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a rich Parmesan sauce, this Chicken Spinach Pasta is both nourishing and satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy, rich flavor with simple pantry ingredients
- Family-friendly and perfect for busy nights
- Balanced with protein, greens, and carbs
- Easy to customize with gluten-free or dairy-free options
- Ready in under 40 minutes
Ingredients
- 12 ounces pasta (gluten-free or whole wheat)
- 1 pound chicken breast, boneless and skinless
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2–3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1.5 ounces dried tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons gluten-free flour
- 2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 cups spinach, uncooked
- 2 tablespoons parsley, minced
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken for 6–8 minutes per side until fully cooked (165°F internal temperature). Let rest, then slice.
- In the same pan, sauté garlic and dried tomatoes for 1–2 minutes.
- In a bowl, whisk flour, milk, and Parmesan cheese until smooth.
- Add the mixture to the pan along with spinach. Simmer until the sauce thickens and spinach wilts.
- Stir in cooked pasta and sliced chicken until coated.
- Garnish with parsley and black pepper. Serve immediately.
Tips & Tricks
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for smoother melting
- Add a splash of pasta water for a silkier sauce
- Swap spinach with kale if desired
- Slice chicken thinly for better texture in the pasta
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of chili flakes
Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Difficulty: Easy
- Dietary: Halal-friendly, gluten-free option
Notes
- Use plant-based milk for a dairy-free version
- Serve with garlic bread or a light salad
- Add mushrooms or bell peppers for variation
Nutrition (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 520
- Protein: 35g
- Carbs: 45g
- Fat: 22g
FAQ
Can I make Chicken Spinach Pasta ahead of time?
Yes, prepare it and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, just thaw and drain excess water before adding.
What pasta works best?
Penne, fettuccine, or fusilli hold the sauce well.
How do I make it lighter?
Use low-fat milk and reduce cheese slightly.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely, it saves time and adds flavor.
Storage
- Fridge: Store in airtight container for up to 3 days
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months
- Reheating: Warm on stovetop with a splash of milk
Similar Recipes
Chicken Spinach Pasta Creamy Dinner
Creamy Chicken Spinach Pasta with tender chicken and fresh spinach.Quick and easy dinner ready in 35 minutes.Perfect for a healthy and comforting meal.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces pasta gluten-free or whole wheat
- 1 pound chicken breast boneless and skinless
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 –3 garlic cloves minced
- 1.5 ounces dried tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons gluten-free flour
- 2 cups milk dairy or non-dairy
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese grated
- 2 cups spinach uncooked
- 2 tablespoons parsley minced
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken for 6–8 minutes per side until fully cooked (165°F internal temperature). Let rest, then slice.
- In the same pan, sauté garlic and dried tomatoes for 1–2 minutes.
- In a bowl, whisk flour, milk, and Parmesan cheese until smooth.
- Add the mixture to the pan along with spinach. Simmer until the sauce thickens and spinach wilts.
- Stir in cooked pasta and sliced chicken until coated.
- Garnish with parsley and black pepper. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Use plant-based milk for a dairy-free version
- Serve with garlic bread or a light salad
- Add mushrooms or bell peppers for variation
Conclusion
This Chicken Spinach Pasta is the perfect blend of creamy comfort and wholesome ingredients. It’s quick, flexible, and guaranteed to become a go-to recipe for busy days when you still want something delicious and homemade.