Creamy Spinach And Chicken Pasta

Name: Creamy Spinach And Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta of your choice; 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped; 1 tbsp olive oil; 2 chicken breasts, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Favorite Comfort Food Recipes

I absolutely love making Creamy Spinach and Chicken Pasta, especially when I’m in the mood for something comforting yet wholesome. The delightful blend of tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a rich, creamy sauce makes this dish my go-to for busy weeknights. It comes together in just under 30 minutes, and my family never fails to ask for seconds. The best part is how it easily adapts to whatever ingredients I have on hand, so get ready to impress your loved ones with this delicious dish!

Created by

Lavinia Moore

Last updated on 2026-02-10T15:41:35.176Z

When I first made Creamy Spinach and Chicken Pasta, I was genuinely surprised by how rich and flavorful it turned out. I sautéed garlic in butter before adding the chicken, allowing those aromatic flavors to set the foundation for the comforting sauce. The addition of cream helps to create that velvety texture that clings to every bite of pasta.

One specific tip I discovered is to add the spinach just before serving. This keeps it vibrant and slightly wilted, rather than overly cooked and soggy. Trust me, this little detail elevates the overall taste and presentation of the dish!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A creamy sauce that perfectly coats the pasta and chicken
Fresh spinach adds a pop of color and nutrition
Quick and easy to prepare — perfect for weeknight dinners

Mastering the Sauce

The cream sauce is where this dish truly shines. Using heavy cream gives the sauce a rich, luxurious texture that clings beautifully to the pasta. Be sure to simmer the sauce gently after adding the cream; this allows it to thicken slightly and develop a deep flavor without risking curdling. If you're looking for a lighter alternative, half-and-half can be used, but the sauce will be less rich. Always taste and adjust the seasoning before combining it with the pasta.

Adding the Parmesan cheese not only enhances the flavor with its salty nuttiness, but it also contributes to the sauce's creamy texture. For the best results, use freshly grated Parmesan rather than pre-packaged options. Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting. Stir the cheese in gradually, allowing it to melt completely before adding more for a smooth, cohesive sauce.

Enhancing the Dish

Incorporating fresh spinach not only brings a vibrant color but also packs in nutrients. If you want to experiment, consider adding other vegetables like cherry tomatoes or bell peppers. Simply sauté them with the chicken or toss them in just before adding the cream to maintain their crunch. Alternatively, you can use frozen spinach; just ensure it’s fully thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture in your sauce.

For those who prefer a bit of heat, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes into the sauce can elevate the flavor profile immensely. You could also experiment with different herbs, such as basil or thyme, to provide a fresh twist. Feel free to personalize this dish to your family's palate—it's versatile enough to accommodate various tweaks.

Ingredients

Ingredients:

For the Pasta

8 oz pasta of your choice
2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
1 tbsp olive oil

For the Sauce

2 chicken breasts, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to gather all the ingredients before you start cooking!

Instructions

Instructions:

Cook the Pasta

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

Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute.

Make the Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and combined. Season with salt and pepper.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta and spinach to the skillet, tossing to combine and heat through. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired.

Enjoy your delicious meal!

Pro Tips

For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with Greek yogurt or use whole grain pasta for added nutrition.

Make-Ahead and Storage

You can prepare components of this dish ahead of time to make your weeknight dinner even quicker. Cook the pasta earlier in the day and store it in an airtight container with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking. You can also cook the chicken and prepare the cream sauce, storing them separately in the fridge. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce over low heat, then add the pasta and spinach until everything is heated through.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or extra cream to loosen the sauce, as it may thicken in the fridge. To reheat, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to ensure even warming and to prevent separation.

Suggested Pairings

This creamy dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. The acidity from the dressing plays well against the richness of the pasta. If you're looking to elevate the meal further, consider serving it with garlic bread or a side of roasted vegetables, like asparagus or Brussels sprouts, which will add texture and a touch of nuttiness to the meal.

For a more festive occasion, consider pairing the pasta with a nice white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. Both wines will complement the creamy sauce without overpowering the delicate flavors of chicken and spinach, enhancing your dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just heat it up before adding the pasta.

→ What can I substitute for chicken?

You can use shrimp, tofu, or mushrooms as a protein alternative.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Broccoli, bell peppers, or peas work great in this recipe.

→ How can I make it spicier?

Add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a kick.