I love making this creamy chicken spinach pasta when I want a comforting meal that feels rich and satisfying. The tender chicken, creamy sauce, and fresh spinach come together perfectly with pasta for an easy dinner that always tastes delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I enjoy this recipe because it’s simple, flavorful, and perfect for busy evenings. The creamy sauce coats the pasta beautifully, while the spinach adds freshness and color. I also like that everything comes together in one pan, making cleanup much easier.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

12 ounces pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 chicken breasts, sliced into bite-sized pieces
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 cups fresh spinach
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper to taste
Red pepper flakes for garnish (optional)

Directions

I cook the pasta according to the package instructions, then drain and set it aside.
I heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
I add the chicken pieces and cook until golden brown and fully cooked.
I stir in the garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
I pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, then stir well.
I add the Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, stirring until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
I mix in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted.
I add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until evenly coated.
I season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if I want a little heat.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

I sometimes use shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood version. When I want extra vegetables, I add mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or broccoli. I also like using half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a slightly lighter sauce.

storage/reheating

I store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. I reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce. I do not usually freeze this dish because cream sauces can separate after thawing.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, I use frozen spinach when needed, but I make sure to thaw and drain it first.

What pasta works best for this recipe?

I like using penne, fettuccine, or rotini because they hold the creamy sauce well.

Can I make this dish lighter?

Yes, I sometimes use half-and-half or reduced-fat cream cheese instead of heavy cream.

How do I keep the sauce creamy?

I cook the sauce over medium-low heat and avoid boiling it after adding the cream and cheese.

Can I prepare this pasta ahead of time?

Yes, I can make it ahead and reheat it gently before serving.

Conclusion

I enjoy making this creamy chicken spinach pasta because it’s comforting, easy, and full of rich flavor. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and fresh spinach create a balanced meal that works perfectly for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Creamy Chicken Spinach Pasta

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

A rich and comforting creamy chicken spinach pasta made with tender chicken, fresh spinach, Parmesan cheese, and pasta coated in a smooth garlic cream sauce. This easy one-pan dinner is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family meals.

Author: Mayaa
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian-American
Diet: Halal

Ingredients

12 ounces pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 chicken breasts, sliced into bite-sized pieces
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 cups fresh spinach
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper to taste
Red pepper flakes for garnish (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the chicken pieces and cook until golden brown and fully cooked.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well.
Add the Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, stirring until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
Mix in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until evenly coated with the sauce.
Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired before serving.