Creamy Spinach Pasta with Chicken

Name: Creamy Spinach Pasta with Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 300g pasta of your choice; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 chicken breasts, sliced; 3 cups fresh spinach; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Old-Fashioned Comfort Eats

I absolutely adore this Creamy Spinach Pasta with Chicken! It’s become one of my favorite go-to meals, not only for its rich and comforting flavors but also because it’s incredibly easy to prepare. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and a luscious creamy sauce over pasta creates a dish that feels indulgent yet is quick enough for a weeknight dinner. You won’t believe how a few simple ingredients can come together to create such a satisfying meal that the whole family will love!

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-02-05T15:57:27.322Z

Cooking is more than just a hobby for me; it's a way to connect with loved ones. When I first made Creamy Spinach Pasta with Chicken, I was excited to incorporate fresh spinach from my garden. It made the dish not only nourishing but also vibrant. I discovered that the key to a creamy sauce is not overpowering it with flour; instead, using a combination of cream and grated cheese creates the perfect balance.

Each time I serve this pasta, it brings smiles to my family’s faces. The chicken remains juicy, thanks to a quick sear that locks in moisture. My little tip? Add a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce for an unexpected depth of flavor that elevates the dish. Trust me; it makes all the difference!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy sauce that coats every strand of pasta
Fresh spinach adds a pop of color and nutrients
Easy to make, perfect for a busy weeknight dinner
Comforting flavors that please both kids and adults

Unlocking the Creaminess

The key to achieving a beautifully creamy sauce lies in the quality of the heavy cream you choose. Opt for a full-fat cream, as it will provide a richer mouthfeel and help emulsify the sauce effectively. When you add the cream to the skillet, make sure to lower the heat to prevent boiling; this way, the cream won’t curdle. Stir continuously to create a glossy sauce that adheres perfectly to the pasta.

Gradually incorporating the grated parmesan into the simmering cream is crucial. The cheese adds not only flavor but also helps thicken the sauce. As you stir, you should notice the sauce becoming velvety and coating the back of a spoon. If the sauce feels too thick, you can add a splash of pasta water to loosen it up while maintaining the creaminess. This technique ensures that every bite is indulgent!

Perfectly Cooked Chicken

For perfectly cooked chicken, slice the breasts to a uniform thickness to ensure even cooking. This not only reduces the cooking time—approximately 5-7 minutes on medium heat—but also helps in melding the flavors together. Look for a golden-brown color and clear juices when you cut into the thickest part of the chicken to ensure it’s cooked through.

If you find your chicken is browning too quickly before it’s cooked through, lower the heat slightly. Alternatively, if you prefer a little crustiness, you can finish the chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes after sautéing. This technique gives you a juicy interior with a crunchy exterior, elevating your creamy pasta dish.

Customizing and Storing

This recipe welcomes customization, so feel free to mix in vegetables like sun-dried tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition. Combine ingredients such as cooked bacon or shredded rotisserie chicken, if you want to use leftovers. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly if adding any additional ingredients to ensure everything remains perfectly cooked.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of water or extra cream to revive the sauce, as it may thicken in the fridge. Warm it up on low heat, stirring frequently until heated through. Freezing is not recommended due to the cream's tendency to separate, but repurposing the dish into a casserole topped with breadcrumbs before baking can offer a delightful twist!

Ingredients

For the Pasta

300g pasta of your choice
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 chicken breasts, sliced
3 cups fresh spinach
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken breasts, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Spinach and Garlic

Once the chicken is cooked, add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute. Then add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted.

Make the Creamy Sauce

Reduce the heat to low, pour in the heavy cream, and stir. Gradually add the grated parmesan cheese, mixing until a creamy sauce forms.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine, ensuring all the pasta is coated in the creamy sauce. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parmesan if desired.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider incorporating sun-dried tomatoes or a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat. This dish can also be easily customized by adding other vegetables or using different types of pasta.

Ingredient Insights

When it comes to the ingredients, fresh spinach plays a dual role—it enhances the dish’s visual appeal and packs it with nutrients. Choose bright, vibrant spinach without wilting or discoloration. If fresh spinach is unavailable, you can substitute it with frozen spinach; just be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in your sauce.

Parmesan cheese can vary in flavor intensity, so I recommend using a block of cheese and grating it yourself for the freshest taste. This also allows you to control the size of the shavings for better melting. Alternatively, Pecorino Romano is a fantastic substitute if you prefer a saltier kick. Just remember, the quality of your cheese plays a vital role in the overall flavor of the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this creamy spinach pasta with a fresh green salad dressed in a lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also add a hint of spice and visual flair. For an extra touch, consider topping with toasted pine nuts or walnuts for crunch.

If you want to turn this into a meal prep dish, consider portioning it into individual containers. Not only does this make it easy to grab for lunch or dinner throughout the week, but it also adds a level of convenience for busy days. Add a slice of garlic bread on the side to soak up all that delightful sauce.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just thaw and drain excess water before adding it to the dish.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use a mixture of milk and cream for a lighter version or a plant-based cream for a dairy-free alternative.

→ How do I know when the chicken is cooked?

Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.

→ Can I store leftovers?

Yes, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.