I made this Easy Chicken Spinach Pasta Recipe on a busy weeknight when I wanted something comforting but not heavy. The smell of garlic, chicken, and cream coming together instantly made my kitchen feel cozy. What I love most is how simple ingredients turn into a restaurant-style meal.

It felt fancy enough to serve guests, yet easy enough that I didn’t feel rushed. After one bite, I knew this recipe was going straight into my regular dinner rotation. You can also enjoy similar flavors in the Doner Kebab Recipe for a fun variation.

Ingredients Section

These ingredients are simple, fresh, and work together to create a creamy, well-balanced pasta dish with great flavor.

Boneless, skinless chicken breast – 1 pound, cut into bite-sized pieces
Lean chicken cooks quickly and stays tender when sautéed over medium heat.
Penne pasta – 12 ounces
Short pasta with ridges holds onto the creamy sauce better than smooth pasta.
Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
Adds flavor and helps brown the chicken evenly without sticking.
Garlic cloves – 4, minced
Fresh garlic gives a stronger, more aromatic flavor than pre-minced jars.
Heavy cream – 1 cup
Creates a rich, silky sauce; avoid milk as it won’t thicken the same way.
Chicken broth – 1 cup
Adds savory depth and balances the richness of the cream.
Fresh spinach – 5 ounces
Fresh spinach wilts beautifully; frozen spinach releases too much water.
Parmesan cheese – ½ cup, freshly grated
Freshly grated cheese melts smoothly and prevents a gritty texture.
Italian seasoning – 1 teaspoon
A blend of herbs that enhances the overall flavor without overpowering.
Salt – ¾ teaspoon (adjust to taste)
Essential for seasoning both the pasta water and the sauce.
Black pepper – ½ teaspoon
Adds mild heat and balances the creamy elements.
Red pepper flakes – optional, ¼ teaspoon
Perfect if you enjoy a subtle spicy kick.

Note: This recipe serves approximately 4 people as a main course.

Variations

This recipe is flexible, so you can easily adjust it based on dietary needs or flavor preferences.

Dairy-free version: Use full-fat coconut milk instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan.
Gluten-free option: Swap regular pasta with gluten-free penne or brown rice pasta.
Extra veggies: Add mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or cherry tomatoes for more texture.
Protein swap: Use shrimp or turkey breast instead of chicken for a lighter twist.
Flavor boost: A splash of lemon juice or zest brightens the creamy sauce.

Cooking Time

This dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for weeknights.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Equipment You Need

Using the right tools makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable.

Large pot – for boiling pasta evenly
Large skillet or sauté pan – to cook chicken and sauce together
Cutting board – for prepping chicken and vegetables
Sharp knife – ensures clean cuts and even cooking
Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring without scratching the pan

How to Make Easy Chicken Spinach Pasta Recipe?

This recipe follows simple steps that build flavor gradually. Each stage adds depth, resulting in a creamy and satisfying dish.

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving a little pasta water just in case the sauce needs thinning.

Season and Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the pan in a single layer. Cook until golden on the outside and fully cooked through, then remove and set aside.

Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet, lower the heat slightly and add the minced garlic. Stir constantly for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown, as burnt garlic can taste bitter.

Build the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the pan. Add the heavy cream and Italian seasoning, then let the mixture simmer gently. This step allows the sauce to thicken and develop flavor.

Add Spinach and Cheese

Stir in the fresh spinach and let it wilt naturally into the sauce. Add the grated Parmesan cheese slowly, stirring until fully melted and smooth. The sauce should be creamy and glossy.

Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the drained pasta. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if needed. For more veggie ideas, check how vegetables are incorporated in the Mushroom and Kale Lasagna Roll-Ups in Creamy Gorgonzola Cauliflower Sauce Recipe.

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

After making this recipe several times, I picked up a few tricks that really elevate the final result.

I always salt the pasta water generously; it makes the pasta taste better from the inside.
I learned not to overcook the chicken, as it stays juicier when removed promptly.
I prefer freshly grated Parmesan because it melts smoothly into the sauce.
I sometimes add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce feels too thick.

How to Serve Easy Chicken Spinach Pasta Recipe?

Serve the pasta hot in wide bowls to showcase the creamy sauce. Garnish with extra Parmesan, cracked black pepper, and a few red pepper flakes. A side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad pairs beautifully and balances the richness.

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 520 per serving
Protein: About 35 grams
Carbohydrates: Around 45 grams
Fat: Roughly 22 grams

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe stores well, making it great for meal prep.

Storing

Let the pasta cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days without losing flavor or texture.

Freezing

Freezing is possible, but the cream sauce may slightly change texture. Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of broth or cream. Stir occasionally to restore the creamy consistency.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

There are plenty of reasons this dish becomes a favorite quickly.

It’s easy to make and perfect for busy weeknights, yet tastes impressive enough for guests.
The recipe is versatile and adapts well to different diets and preferences.
The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and fresh spinach create a balanced, comforting flavor.
It uses simple ingredients that are easy to find and budget-friendly.

This easy chicken spinach pasta recipe is proof that simple cooking can still feel special, comforting, and deeply satisfying.

Ash Tyrrell