Chicken Spinach Penne

If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious meal that can be whipped up in no time, this Chicken Spinach Penne is just what you need! This creamy pasta dish combines tender chicken and vibrant spinach with al dente penne, all enveloped in a rich sauce that’s simply irresistible. It’s one of those recipes that I always turn to on busy weeknights or when I want to impress friends at a casual gathering. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some greens without anyone noticing!

What I love most about this Chicken Spinach Penne is how quick and easy it is to prepare while still being packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just for yourself, this dish is sure to bring smiles and satisfaction at the dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With a total time of only 30 minutes, you can have a delicious meal on the table faster than you can order takeout.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves creamy pasta! This dish appeals to both kids and adults alike, making it perfect for family dinners.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can easily prep the ingredients ahead of time, making weeknight cooking even simpler.
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of garlic, onion, and Parmesan creates a rich flavor profile that elevates the entire dish.
• Versatile Ingredients: With simple ingredients like chicken and spinach, you can easily adapt this recipe based on what you have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. You probably have most of these items in your pantry already! Here’s what you’ll need:

• 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 best things about this Chicken Spinach Penne recipe is its flexibility. Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Use shrimp or diced turkey instead of chicken for a different protein twist.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some roasted red peppers or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.
• Make it lighter: Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream if you’re looking for a lighter version without sacrificing too much creaminess.
• Spice it up: Add crushed red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning to give the dish an extra kick!

How to Make Chicken Spinach Penne

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking the penne pasta according to the package directions until al dente. This step is crucial as it ensures your pasta has that perfect bite. Drain it when it’s ready but don’t forget to reserve about ½ cup of that starchy pasta water—it will come in handy later!

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

While your pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper before adding them to the skillet. Cook until they’re browned and cooked through; this usually takes around 5–7 minutes. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set aside. Browning adds depth of flavor that’s hard to beat!

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

In the same skillet, toss in your chopped onion. Sauté until softened—about 5 minutes—before adding minced garlic for another minute or so until fragrant. This step builds layers of flavor that will make your sauce truly delightful.

Step 4: Add Spinach

Next up is the thawed spinach! Stir it into the skillet and cook just long enough to heat through—about 1–2 minutes will do. Adding spinach not only boosts nutrition but also gives a lovely color contrast to your dish.

Step 5: Create the Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth along with heavy cream. Bring everything to a gentle simmer and cook for a few minutes until slightly thickened. This creamy base will coat your pasta beautifully when we add it all together.

Step 6: Mix It All Together

Stir in grated Parmesan cheese along with that pinch of nutmeg if you’re using it; both add amazing depth! Then add back your cooked chicken and drained penne into the skillet, tossing everything together until well combined. If your sauce seems too thick, just splash in some reserved pasta water—this helps achieve that creamy consistency we love.

Step 7: Serve It Up

Once everything is well mixed and heated through, serve immediately! Garnish each plate with extra Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of decadence. Your Chicken Spinach Penne is now ready to enjoy—a perfect blend of comfort food that’s sure to please everyone at your table!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Spinach Penne

Cooking is all about enjoying the process and creating delicious meals that everyone will love! Here are some pro tips to elevate your Chicken Spinach Penne to the next level:

• Use fresh spinach: If you have access to fresh spinach, use it instead of frozen. Fresh spinach adds a vibrant color and a slightly different texture that can lighten up the dish.

• Cook pasta al dente: Make sure to cook your penne pasta just until al dente. This will help it hold its shape and provide a perfect bite when combined with the creamy sauce.

• Add more veggies: Consider adding other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrients. They can complement the chicken and spinach beautifully.

• Experiment with cheese: While Parmesan is classic, try mixing in other cheeses like mozzarella or cream cheese for added creaminess and depth of flavor.

• Make it ahead: This dish keeps well in the fridge for a day or two, so consider making it ahead of time. Just reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or water to bring back that creamy texture.

How to Serve Chicken Spinach Penne

Presenting your Chicken Spinach Penne creatively can make it even more enjoyable! Here are some ideas to make your meal appealing.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or basil on top before serving to add a burst of freshness and color.
• Lemon zest: A little lemon zest grated over the top can brighten up the flavors and give a refreshing twist.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: If you like a kick, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for some heat and visual interest.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Nothing beats warm, buttery garlic bread on the side. It’s perfect for soaking up any leftover creamy sauce!
• Mixed green salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables (like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus) add color and nutrition while complementing the flavors of your dish.
• Steamed broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli not only adds a splash of green but also balances out the richness of the Chicken Spinach Penne with its crunch and mild flavor.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Chicken Spinach Penne will be an absolute hit at dinner! Enjoy every bite with family and friends.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken Spinach Penne recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch in advance and enjoy it throughout the week, making dinner planning a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• To freeze, portion out the Chicken Spinach Penne into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Make sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

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

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Chicken Spinach Penne.

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Yes, you can definitely substitute fresh spinach! Use about 6-8 cups of fresh spinach, sautéing it until wilted before adding it to the dish.

How can I make Chicken Spinach Penne healthier?

You can opt for whole grain penne or substitute some of the heavy cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version while still keeping it creamy and delicious.

What should I serve with Chicken Spinach Penne?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that’s both satisfying and comforting.

Can I prepare Chicken Spinach Penne ahead of time?

Absolutely! This recipe is great for meal prep. You can store leftovers in the fridge or even freeze portions for later use.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoyed this recipe for Chicken Spinach Penne as much as I do! It’s not only quick and delicious but also versatile enough to suit your family’s taste. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this dish is bound to bring smiles around the table. Enjoy making this creamy delight, and feel free to share your experience—I’d love to hear how it turns out!