Spinach Chicken Pasta

Flavorful Spinach Chicken Pasta: A Creamy Delight

Let's create a dish that's both comforting and nourishing: Flavorful Spinach Chicken Pasta. This recipe combines tender chicken, fresh spinach, and creamy sauce with pasta, creating a balanced and satisfying meal. I'm excited to share this versatile recipe with you.

Ingredient Essentials

Chicken Breasts:

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the protein source.

Spinach:

Fresh spinach adds an earthy flavor and vibrant color.

Pasta:

Any type of pasta works well, such as penne, fettuccine, or farfalle.

Garlic:

Minced garlic adds a savory depth to the sauce.

Heavy Cream and Chicken Broth:

Heavy cream and chicken broth create a creamy and flavorful sauce.

Cream Cheese:

Cream cheese adds richness and creaminess to the sauce.

Parmesan Cheese:

Grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty and sharp flavor.

Lemon Juice and Zest:

Lemon juice and zest add a bright and citrusy flavor.

Olive Oil and Butter:

Olive oil and butter are used for cooking and adding richness.

Spices:

Salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and nutmeg add flavor.

Pin it

Crafting Your Pasta

Chicken Preparation:

Season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and lemon juice. Cook the chicken in a skillet until golden brown and cooked through.

Pasta Cooking:

Boil the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Sauce Preparation:

Sauté garlic in butter. Add spinach and cook until wilted. Add heavy cream, chicken broth, and cream cheese. Stir until smooth. Add Parmesan cheese, nutmeg, salt, pepper, and lemon zest. Cook until thickened.

Pasta Combination:

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to combine, adding pasta water if needed.

Chicken Addition:

Slice the chicken and add it to the pasta. Stir gently and cook for 2-3 minutes.

Serving:

Plate the pasta and garnish with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs.

You Must Know

• This pasta dish is a perfect balance of savory, creamy, and earthy flavors.
• It's easy to customize with different ingredients.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator.

I love the creamy texture of the sauce and the bright, fresh flavor of the spinach. The tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta make this dish a satisfying and enjoyable meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Spinach Chicken Pasta with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.

Flavorful Variations

Add sautéed mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or crispy bacon. Use pesto sauce instead of some of the heavy cream. Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until heated through.

Pin it

Chef's Helpful Tips

Don't overcook the chicken.

Use fresh spinach for the best flavor.

Season the sauce to taste.

Save pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency.

Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

This Flavorful Spinach Chicken Pasta is a versatile and delicious dish that's perfect for any occasion. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will become a cherished favorite in your recipe collection. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this delightful pasta as much as I do.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain it before using.

→ Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?

Yes, shrimp, turkey, or grilled tofu are great alternatives.

→ What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Penne, fettuccine, or any pasta you have on hand will work well.

→ How can I make the sauce thinner?

Add some of the reserved pasta water to the sauce until you reach your desired consistency.

→ Can I add any extra flavors to the dish?

Yes, a squeeze of lemon juice or sun-dried tomatoes can add extra flavor.