Chicken Spinach Penne

If you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and quick to prepare, you’ve come to the right place! This creamy Chicken Spinach Penne is a delightful blend of tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and perfectly cooked pasta all enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce. It’s one of those recipes that makes weeknight dinners feel special without requiring hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re feeding a family or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish is sure to impress!

This Chicken Spinach Penne has a special place in my heart. It’s not just delicious; it’s also incredibly easy to whip up! You can have this meal on the table in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings or family gatherings when you want something satisfying but don’t have much time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this recipe fits perfectly into any busy schedule.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves pasta! This dish combines familiar flavors that kids and adults alike will enjoy.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prep the ingredients in advance, making it even easier to pull together on hectic nights.
• Rich Flavor: The creamy sauce, seasoned chicken, and fresh spinach come together for a mouthwatering experience.
• Versatile: Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or spices for a personalized touch!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create this delightful meal. You likely have many of these staples at home already!

For the Main Dish

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

Variations

This Chicken Spinach Penne recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily adapt it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use turkey or grilled shrimp instead of chicken for a different twist.
• Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers or mushrooms for added color and nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the sauce for an extra kick!
• Go lighter: Substitute the heavy cream with Greek yogurt or a non-dairy alternative for a lighter version.

How to Make Chicken Spinach Penne

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. This ensures your pasta has that perfect bite. After draining, set it aside but be sure to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water. This starchy water can help adjust your sauce later if needed.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Season your chicken pieces with salt and pepper before adding them to the skillet. Cooking until browned ensures they develop flavor and stay juicy. Once cooked through, remove them from the skillet and set them aside.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Add the chopped onion to the same skillet and cook until softened—about five minutes. This step builds a savory base for your sauce. When fragrant garlic joins in during the last minute of cooking, you’ll notice how it elevates everything!

Step 4: Add Spinach

Next up is our vibrant spinach! Add the thawed spinach to the skillet and stir it in until heated through. Not only does this add color but also nutrients that make your meal healthier.

Step 5: Create the Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream—this is where magic happens! Bring everything to a simmer and let it thicken slightly. Stirring in Parmesan cheese adds creaminess while infusing rich flavor.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Now it’s time to bring it all together! Add your cooked penne pasta and chicken back into the skillet. Toss everything gently until well combined; if your sauce feels too thick, gradually add some reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 7: Serve Up!

Finally, serve immediately with extra grated Parmesan cheese on top for an added touch of richness. Enjoy every creamy bite of your Chicken Spinach Penne!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Spinach Penne

Creating a delicious Chicken Spinach Penne is a breeze, especially with a few handy tips to elevate your cooking game!

• Use fresh spinach if possible: Fresh spinach can bring an extra burst of flavor and vibrant color to your dish. If you choose to use fresh, simply sauté it until wilted instead of using frozen.

• Don’t skip the nutmeg: A pinch of nutmeg adds depth to the creamy sauce. It’s a subtle touch that enhances the overall flavor profile without being overpowering.

• Reserve pasta water wisely: Keep about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water on hand. It’s a great tool for adjusting the sauce consistency—just a little splash can make all the difference!

• Cook chicken in batches: If your skillet is crowded, consider cooking the chicken in two batches. This ensures even browning and prevents steaming, giving you that perfect sear.

• Experiment with cheese: While Parmesan is traditional, feel free to mix it up! A little mozzarella or Asiago can add a unique twist and creaminess to the sauce.

How to Serve Chicken Spinach Penne

Serving your Chicken Spinach Penne is just as enjoyable as making it! Here are some delightful ways to present this comforting dish.

Garnishes

• Extra Parmesan: Grating fresh Parmesan over the top not only looks appealing but also enhances the cheesy flavor of your dish.
• Fresh herbs: Chopped basil or parsley can add a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the creamy pasta.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Crispy garlic bread is always a favorite. Its crunchy texture complements the creamy penne perfectly, making for a satisfying meal.
• Mixed green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and balsamic vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the Chicken Spinach Penne.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus add both color and nutritional variety, creating a balanced plate.
• Steamed broccoli: Simple yet nutritious, steamed broccoli provides crunch and a nice green element that pairs beautifully with this pasta dish.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to impress yourself and others with your homemade Chicken Spinach Penne! Enjoy every creamy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken Spinach Penne recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a hearty and delicious dish throughout the week. With just a few simple steps, you can store leftovers or even freeze portions for later.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the Chicken Spinach Penne to cool to room temperature before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• If you plan to freeze, portion out individual servings into freezer-safe containers.
• Ensure there’s a little extra space in each container as the sauce may expand when frozen.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Remember to label with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw frozen Chicken Spinach Penne in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• To reheat, warm on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if necessary.
• Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might help you while making your Chicken Spinach Penne.

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Absolutely! If you prefer fresh spinach, feel free to add about 6 cups of fresh leaves. Cook them down until wilted before adding to your sauce.

How can I make my Chicken Spinach Penne healthier?

You can use whole grain penne pasta for added fiber and nutrients. Additionally, consider reducing the amount of cheese or using a lighter cream alternative.

Is Chicken Spinach Penne good for meal prep?

Yes! This Chicken Spinach Penne is excellent for meal prep. It stores well in the fridge and can be easily frozen for later meals.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Chicken Spinach Penne recipe as delightful as I do! It’s not only comforting but also quick enough to whip up on busy weeknights. Enjoy making this dish and savoring every creamy bite. Don’t forget to share your experience—I’d love to hear how it turned out for you!