Chicken Spinach Pasta is a creamy, comforting, and wholesome dish that brings together tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a rich Parmesan sauce. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights while still feeling like a restaurant-quality meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Chicken Spinach Pasta is quick, satisfying, and packed with flavor. The creamy sauce pairs perfectly with juicy chicken and nutrient-rich spinach. It’s a family-friendly dish that’s easy to customize and comes together in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces pasta (gluten-free or whole wheat)
- 1 pound chicken breast, boneless and skinless
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2–3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1.5 ounces dried tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons gluten-free flour
- 2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 2 tablespoons parsley, minced
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the chicken for 6–8 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked (165°F internal temperature). Remove and let rest, then slice.
- In the same pan, sauté garlic and dried tomatoes for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, milk, and Parmesan cheese.
- Pour the mixture into the pan and add spinach. Cook until the sauce thickens and spinach wilts.
- Add cooked pasta and sliced chicken into the sauce.
- Toss everything together until well coated.
- Garnish with parsley and black pepper, then serve your Chicken Spinach Pasta.
Tips & Tricks
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for better melting.
- Don’t overcook the chicken to keep it juicy.
- Add a splash of pasta water for a silkier sauce.
- Substitute spinach with kale if desired.
- Add mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Difficulty: Easy
- Dietary Notes: Halal-friendly, Gluten-free option available
Notes
- You can use dairy-free milk and cheese alternatives.
- Whole wheat pasta adds extra fiber.
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
Nutrition (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 18g
FAQ
Can I make Chicken Spinach Pasta ahead of time?
Yes, store it in the fridge and reheat gently with a splash of milk.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, it’s a great time-saving option.
What pasta works best?
Penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti all work well.
Can I freeze this pasta?
It’s best fresh, but you can freeze it with slight texture changes.
How do I make it lighter?
Use low-fat milk and reduce the cheese slightly.
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store in airtight container for up to 3 days
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 1 month
- Reheating: Reheat with a bit of milk to restore creaminess
Similar Recipes
Chicken Spinach Pasta
Ingredients
- 12 ounces pasta gluten-free or whole wheat
- 1 pound chicken breast boneless and skinless
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 –3 garlic cloves minced
- 1.5 ounces dried tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons gluten-free flour
- 2 cups milk dairy or non-dairy
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese grated
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 2 tablespoons parsley minced
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the chicken for 6–8 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked (165°F internal temperature). Remove and let rest, then slice.
- In the same pan, sauté garlic and dried tomatoes for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, milk, and Parmesan cheese.
- Pour the mixture into the pan and add spinach. Cook until the sauce thickens and spinach wilts.
- Add cooked pasta and sliced chicken into the sauce.
- Toss everything together until well coated.
- Garnish with parsley and black pepper, then serve your Chicken Spinach Pasta.
Notes
- You can use dairy-free milk and cheese alternatives.
Conclusion
Chicken Spinach Pasta is a rich, creamy, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. With simple ingredients and bold flavors, it’s a reliable go-to recipe that everyone will love.