Creamy Spinach And Chicken Pasta

Name: Creamy Spinach And Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz fettuccine pasta; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pound chicken breast, cubed; 2 cups fresh spinach; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Hearty & Comforting

I love making Creamy Spinach and Chicken Pasta for a comforting weeknight meal. The rich, velvety sauce combined with tender chicken and fresh spinach creates a delightful balance of flavors. This dish comes together quickly, making it perfect even after a long day. I've experimented with various herbs and spices, and I've found that a hint of garlic and a squeeze of lemon really brighten the dish. I guarantee it's sure to become a favorite in your household, just like it is in mine!

Created by

Camilla Rhodes

Last updated on 2026-02-15T00:23:36.189Z

This recipe began when I was in search of something quick yet packed with flavor. I stumbled upon the idea of marrying creamy sauce with tender chicken and nutritious spinach, and it worked wonderfully! The first time I made it, I added a little too much salt, but adjusting the seasoning is part of the journey.

Over the years, I've refined the recipe by balancing the creaminess with a touch of acid from the lemon. It lifts the dish beautifully. Each bite has layers of flavor, and it’s always a treat to share it with family!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy and comforting with a burst of flavor
Packed with protein and veggies for a nutritious meal
Quick to make, perfect for busy weeknights

Understanding the Ingredients

The combination of fettuccine pasta and heavy cream creates a rich, creamy base that clings beautifully to the noodles. This pasta shape is ideal for this dish because its wider surface area allows the sauce to envelop each strand, enhancing every bite. If you prefer a different pasta type, linguine or penne can also work well, though you'll need to adjust the cooking time slightly according to the package instructions.

Fresh spinach not only adds a vibrant color but also brings a mild flavor that lightly balances the richness of the sauce. It's essential to add the spinach at the right moment; cooking it just until wilted ensures it retains some texture and nutrients. You can substitute with kale or Swiss chard if you're looking for a different green, but be sure to sauté them a bit longer until tender.

Mastering the Cooking Technique

When sautéing the chicken, achieving a golden-brown color on the surface is key; this adds depth to the flavor. Using a high heat initially ensures you get a nice sear, but reduce the heat once the chicken is in to avoid burning. An instant-read thermometer can help; once the internal temperature reaches 165°F, it's perfectly cooked and safe to eat.

Incorporating the garlic into the sauce requires careful attention. Sauté it until fragrant but do not let it brown, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste. This step typically takes no more than a minute. Once you add the cream, keep the heat on low to prevent it from curdling and allow it to gradually warm and thicken.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz fettuccine pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound chicken breast, cubed
2 cups fresh spinach
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Steps

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set it aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.

Combine Ingredients

Add the spinach to the sauce and cook until just wilted. Return the chicken to the skillet and mix everything together. Toss in the drained pasta and mix until well combined.

Serve

Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.

Pro Tips

Feel free to add additional vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition. You can also substitute the chicken for shrimp or keep it vegetarian by omitting the meat.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Creamy Spinach and Chicken Pasta can easily be made ahead of time, making it a convenient meal for busy days. Prepare the pasta and the sauce separately, refrigerating them for up to two days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce gently over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up if needed.

To store leftovers, transfer any extra pasta and sauce into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. Be advised that the pasta may absorb some of the sauce upon chilling, so you might want to reserve some sauce to add back when reheating to maintain creaminess.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For a delightful twist, you can add sun-dried tomatoes or artichoke hearts to the dish. These ingredients bring a tangy flavor that complements the creaminess while adding an extra layer of texture. Toss them in when you add the spinach for enhanced integration.

To elevate the presentation and flavor, consider garnishing the pasta with freshly chopped herbs like basil or parsley. A sprinkle of lemon zest just before serving can also brighten the dish, delivering a fresh contrast to the creamy elements. As a side, crusty bread or a simple salad can round out the meal beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just ensure it's fully thawed and drained before adding it to the sauce.

→ How can I make this dish lighter?

Swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative to reduce calories while maintaining creaminess.

→ What type of pasta works best?

Fettuccine is great, but you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or rotini.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and chicken in advance, then mix with freshly cooked pasta just before serving for the best texture.