Creamy & Comforting Chicken Spinach Penne Pasta

Creamy & Comforting Chicken Spinach Penne Pasta 🍝🌿✨

1. Introduction

If you’re searching for a comforting chicken pasta recipe that combines luscious creaminess with the nutritious punch of fresh spinach, then look no further! This easy penne pasta recipe is perfect for weeknights when you crave something hearty but simple to prepare. The rich, velvety sauce envelops tender chicken pieces and spinach, creating a dish that is both satisfying and delicious. Discover how to make this creamy chicken spinach penne pasta from scratch with our step-by-step guide below.

2. Ingredients for Creamy & Comforting Chicken Spinach Penne Pasta

• 12 oz (340 g) penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
• Optional: Red pepper flakes for extra spice

3. How to Make Creamy & Comforting Chicken Spinach Penne Pasta

Cook the Penne Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a small cup of pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency later.

Prepare the Chicken and Garlic

While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic in the last minute of cooking and sauté until fragrant.

Create the Creamy Sauce

Reduce heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Mix in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained penne to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together to evenly coat the pasta with the creamy mixture. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

4. Tips for Perfect Creamy & Comforting Chicken Spinach Penne Pasta

• Use fresh spinach for vibrant flavor and nutrition.
• Reserve some pasta water to help thicken or loosen the sauce as needed.
• For a healthier twist, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or Greek yogurt.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top before serving for added richness.

5. Storage and Reheating Tips

Store any leftover comforting chicken pasta recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to restore creaminess. Avoid reheating in the microwave for best texture.

6. Serving Suggestions

Pair this creamy chicken spinach penne pasta with a crisp green salad and some garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal. You can also add a sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or parsley for an herbal touch. For extra flavor, consider drizzling with balsamic glaze or adding sun-dried tomatoes.

Looking for more delicious pasta dishes? Check out our One Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage for a similar flavorful experience.

7. Frequently Asked Questions about Creamy Chicken Spinach Penne Pasta

Can I substitute chicken with tofu or shrimp?

Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with cubed tofu or cooked shrimp for a different protein option that still offers a delightful flavor profile.

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, simply replace regular penne pasta with gluten-free pasta. Ensure all ingredients, especially the Parmesan and seasonings, are certified gluten-free.

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

The entire process takes approximately 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick, satisfying dinner.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative, and use dairy-free cheese to keep it creamy and suitable for dairy-free diets.

8. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

• CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set – This durable cookware set makes sautéing, boiling, and simmering a breeze, ensuring your pasta and sauces cook evenly.
• Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master – Perfect for chopping spinach and garlic efficiently, saving you prep time.
• Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker – Use this to serve chilled beverages alongside your pasta for a refreshing touch.

High-quality tools like these enhance your cooking experience and help you prepare this easy penne pasta with less hassle and more fun.

9. Conclusion

This creamy chicken spinach penne pasta is a quintessential comfort dish that combines the richness of creamy sauce with the freshness of spinach and juicy chicken. It’s quick to make, packed with flavor, and versatile enough to suit various dietary preferences. Whether you’re feeding a family or treating yourself to a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Experiment with different ingredients, and enjoy the wholesome goodness of this delightful comforting chicken pasta recipe today!

Creamy & Comforting Chicken Spinach Penne Pasta

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Enjoy this creamy and comforting chicken spinach penne pasta, a hearty dish packed with tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a rich Alfredo sauce. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners and family gatherings, this delicious meal combines velvety creaminess with nutritious greens and perfectly cooked penne pasta. Dive into this easy-to-make recipe that guarantees satisfying flavors and wholesome ingredients, making it an ideal choice for pasta lovers seeking a comforting dish.

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 oz (340 g) penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
• Optional: Red pepper flakes for extra spice

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Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving some pasta water.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken pieces seasoned with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Add garlic in the last minute and sauté until fragrant.
3. Reduce heat to low and pour in heavy cream. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add reserved pasta water if needed to reach desired sauce consistency.
4. Stir in chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
5. Add cooked penne to the skillet and toss to coat with the creamy sauce. Serve immediately.

Notes

• Use fresh spinach for maximum flavor and nutrition.
• Reserve pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency.
• For a healthier version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or Greek yogurt.
• Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Sprinkle extra Parmesan on top before serving for added richness.

• Author: Serena Miller
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian-inspired
• Diet: Nut-Free

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate
• Calories: 560 kcal Kcal
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 660 mg
• Fat: 32 g
• Saturated Fat: 15 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 52 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 32 g
• Cholesterol: 110 mg