Chicken Spinach Penne

If you’re looking for a cozy dinner that comes together in a snap, then this Chicken Spinach Penne is just the recipe you need! Packed with tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and pasta enveloped in a creamy sauce, it’s a dish that feels like a warm hug on your plate. This recipe is one of my favorites because it effortlessly combines comfort with flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Plus, it’s so simple to whip up that even your kids can help!

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, Chicken Spinach Penne is sure to become a beloved staple in your home. Let’s dive into what makes this dish so special!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: You can have this delicious dish on the table in about 30 minutes—perfect for those hectic nights!
• Family-Friendly: Kids love pasta, and the creamy sauce makes the spinach almost irresistible.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the sauce in advance and simply toss it with cooked pasta when you’re ready to eat.
• Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of chicken, spinach, and Parmesan creates a rich flavor that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this dish. You probably already have most of these items in your kitchen!

For the Chicken and Sauce

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (10-ounce) package frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving

For the Pasta

• 1 lb penne pasta
• Pinch of nutmeg (optional)

Variations

One of the best things about Chicken Spinach Penne is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these variations to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: If you’re not a fan of chicken, try using shrimp or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
• Add some heat: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes if you like a little kick in your creamy sauce.
• Throw in extra veggies: Bell peppers or zucchini would make great additions for more color and nutrition.
• Change up the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like feta or mozzarella for varied flavors.

How to Make Chicken Spinach Penne

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking your penne pasta according to the package directions until it’s al dente. This ensures that the pasta holds its shape when mixed with the sauce. Don’t forget to reserve about ½ cup of that starchy pasta water!

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

While your pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season those bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and pepper before adding them to the skillet. Sauté until they are browned and cooked through. This step locks in all those delicious flavors right from the start!

Step 3: Cook Onions and Garlic

Once you’ve set aside your cooked chicken, toss chopped onions into that same skillet. Cook them until they soften—about five minutes—then add minced garlic for an aromatic boost. Cooking them together allows their flavors to mingle beautifully.

Step 4: Add Spinach

Next up is our star ingredient—spinach! Stir in your thawed and squeezed dry spinach until heated through. Bringing this vibrant green veggie into the mix not only adds color but also loads of nutrients.

Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce

Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream next; bring everything to a simmer. Let it bubble away gently until it thickens slightly—this will be your rich sauce base! Stirring often helps develop those creamy textures.

Step 6: Combine It All

Stir in grated Parmesan cheese along with a pinch of nutmeg if you’re feeling adventurous! Then add your cooked penne pasta along with that juicy chicken back into the skillet. Toss everything together until well combined. If it’s too thick for your liking, just loosen it up with some reserved pasta water.

Step 7: Serve It Up!

Finally, serve immediately while hot! Don’t forget to sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top for an added touch of flavor. Enjoy every comforting bite of this Chicken Spinach Penne!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Spinach Penne

Cooking should be a joyful experience, so here are some tips to make your Chicken Spinach Penne even better!

• Use fresh spinach for extra flavor: If you have fresh spinach on hand, feel free to substitute it for the frozen variety. Fresh spinach adds a vibrant taste and lovely texture to the dish.
• Don’t overcook the chicken: Make sure to cook the chicken just until it’s no longer pink in the center. Overcooking can lead to dry meat, so keep an eye on it while it cooks!
• Adjust the creaminess: Feel free to add more or less heavy cream based on your preference for a lighter or richer sauce. You can also swap in a plant-based cream alternative if you prefer a dairy-free option.
• Experiment with cheeses: While Parmesan is classic, try mixing in some mozzarella or ricotta for added creaminess and flavor complexity.
• Make it ahead of time: This dish can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth to bring back that creamy goodness!

How to Serve Chicken Spinach Penne

Presentation is key when serving up this delicious dish! Here are some ideas to elevate your meal.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh basil: Sprinkle some freshly chopped basil on top for an aromatic touch that complements the flavors beautifully.
• Cracked black pepper: Add a dash of cracked black pepper right before serving for an extra kick and visual appeal.
• Lemon zest: A sprinkle of lemon zest can brighten up the dish and add a refreshing citrus note.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: A classic pairing! Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce and adds great texture.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus not only add color but also contribute additional nutrients.
• Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet effective! Steamed broccoli offers a healthy side that complements the pasta beautifully while adding vibrant color to your plate.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Chicken Spinach Penne will not only taste amazing but look fantastic too! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken Spinach Penne recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it in advance and enjoy the flavors throughout the week, making dinner a breeze on busy nights.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the Chicken Spinach Penne cool down completely.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. For best results, label with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce.
• Alternatively, you can microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Chicken Spinach Penne.

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Absolutely! If you prefer fresh spinach, use about 6 cups. Sauté it until wilted before adding it to the sauce.

What pasta can I substitute for penne in Chicken Spinach Penne?

You can use any pasta shape you like, such as fusilli or rigatoni. Just adjust cooking times according to package directions.

Is Chicken Spinach Penne healthy?

This dish provides a good balance of protein and greens, making it a healthier option compared to many creamy pasta recipes. Plus, you can control the ingredients!

Can I make Chicken Spinach Penne vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition.

How long does it take to prepare Chicken Spinach Penne?

From start to finish, this delicious meal takes about 30 minutes—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!

Final Thoughts

I hope you love making this Chicken Spinach Penne as much as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on your dinner plate. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, this dish brings comfort and satisfaction. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite ingredients. Happy cooking!