Chicken Spinach Penne

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that comes together in no time, this Chicken Spinach Penne is just what you need. It’s creamy, flavorful, and loaded with tender chicken and wholesome spinach. This recipe has become a favorite in my home because it strikes the perfect balance between being a hearty meal and quick enough for those busy weeknights. Whether you’re cooking for your family or having friends over, this dish is sure to impress.

The best part? This Chicken Spinach Penne is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. You can whip it up in about 30 minutes, making it a great go-to option when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: In just 30 minutes, dinner is served! Perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-friendly: With its creamy sauce and tasty ingredients, everyone will enjoy this dish—kids and adults alike!
• Nutritious goodness: Packed with spinach, you’ll get a healthy dose of greens alongside your protein and carbs.
• Versatile: Easily adapted to suit your pantry ingredients or dietary preferences.
• Make-ahead option: This recipe keeps well, so you can enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner later in the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients that will bring our Chicken Spinach Penne to life. Don’t worry; these are all easy to find!

For the Pasta 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
• 1 lb penne pasta
• Pinch of nutmeg (optional)

Variations

One of the fantastic things about this Chicken Spinach Penne recipe is its flexibility! You can easily customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal taste preferences.

• Swap the protein: If you’re not in the mood for chicken, try using diced turkey or shrimp instead!
• Add more veggies: Throw in some cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for extra color and flavor.
• Make it lighter: Substitute half-and-half or even a plant-based cream for a lighter version.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or goat cheese for a unique twist.

How to Make Chicken Spinach Penne

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking the penne pasta according to the package directions until it’s al dente. Drain it well and set aside some pasta water. This water will help adjust the sauce’s consistency later on if needed.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

While your pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season your chicken pieces with salt and pepper before adding them to the skillet. Cooking until they’re browned and cooked through adds great flavor. Once done, remove them from the skillet so we can build our sauce.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet (keeping all those delicious flavors), add chopped onions. Sautéing them until softened takes about 5 minutes—this step brings out their natural sweetness! Next, add minced garlic and let it cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Add Spinach

Now it’s time to add our star green ingredient! Toss in the thawed spinach and cook it for a minute or two until heated through. This not only adds nutrition but also gives our dish that lovely green color.

Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce

Pour in your chicken broth and heavy cream next. Bring everything to a gentle simmer; this allows the flavors to meld together beautifully while slightly thickening your sauce—so comforting!

Step 6: Combine Everything

Stir in grated Parmesan cheese along with that pinch of nutmeg if you’re using it. Finally, add back your cooked chicken along with the penne pasta. Toss everything together until coated nicely in that creamy sauce. If it feels too thick, remember that reserved pasta water is your friend!

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!

Serve your Chicken Spinach Penne immediately while it’s hot! Don’t forget an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top for that final touch of deliciousness. Enjoy every bite!

This dish not only fills you up but warms your heart too—perfectly capturing why I adore sharing recipes like this one!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Spinach Penne

Cooking can be such a joy, and with these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making a delicious Chicken Spinach Penne that everyone will love!

• Use fresh spinach: While frozen spinach works perfectly, using fresh spinach adds a vibrant color and flavor to the dish. Just sauté it until wilted before adding it to your sauce.

• Cook chicken at the right temperature: Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken. This helps achieve that perfect golden-brown sear and keeps the chicken juicy.

• Reserve pasta water: Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water! The starchy water is a fantastic addition to thicken your sauce and help it cling better to the penne.

• Adjust creaminess: If you prefer a lighter dish, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with chicken broth. This still gives a lovely flavor while reducing calories.

• Experiment with cheeses: While Parmesan is classic, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or fontina for varied flavors and textures.

How to Serve Chicken Spinach Penne

Presentation makes all the difference when serving your Chicken Spinach Penne! With just a few thoughtful touches, you can transform this comforting dish into an eye-catching meal.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley over the top for a pop of color and an aromatic touch.
• Red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes adds spice and excitement without overwhelming the dish.
• Lemon zest: A sprinkle of lemon zest just before serving brightens up the flavors beautifully, giving it a refreshing finish.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread is always a favorite pairing. Its crispy texture complements the creamy pasta wonderfully.
• Caesar Salad: A light Caesar salad with crisp romaine, croutons, and a tangy dressing balances out the richness of the penne.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots add color and nutrients to your meal while enhancing its overall appeal.
• Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet nutritious, steamed broccoli adds freshness and crunch that pairs nicely with creamy dishes like this one.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll turn your Chicken Spinach Penne into an impressive meal that’s sure to please family and friends alike! Enjoy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken Spinach Penne recipe is perfect for meal prep! It’s not only delicious but also easy to store and reheat, making it ideal for those busy weeknights or when you want to plan ahead.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the Chicken Spinach Penne to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer the leftovers into an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Portion the Chicken Spinach Penne into freezer-safe containers.
• Leave some space at the top of the container for expansion as it freezes.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce.
• Alternatively, reheat in the microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this tasty dish!

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen for Chicken Spinach Penne?

Absolutely! Fresh spinach can be used; just add it to the skillet after cooking the onion and garlic. Sauté until wilted before adding the broth and cream.

What can I substitute for heavy cream in Chicken Spinach Penne?

You can use half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative if you prefer a lighter version. Coconut cream is also a great option that adds a unique flavor!

How can I make Chicken Spinach Penne healthier?

To make this dish healthier, consider using whole grain penne pasta and reducing the amount of cheese. Adding more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini can also boost nutrition!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this creamy Chicken Spinach Penne as much as I do! It’s not only comforting but also packed with flavor and nutrients. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy dinner at home, this dish is sure to delight your family. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences with me!