Effortless One-Pot Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Recipe

Comfort meets convenience in this mouthwatering one-pot creamy chicken and spinach pasta that will revolutionize your weeknight dinner routine.

Hearty ingredients dance together in a single skillet, minimizing cleanup and maximizing flavor.

Tender chicken pieces nestle among perfectly cooked pasta, creating a harmonious blend of protein and carbohydrates.

Vibrant spinach adds a fresh, nutritious touch to the creamy sauce, making each bite both indulgent and wholesome.

Minimal effort yields maximum satisfaction with this ingenious recipe that comes together in under 30 minutes.

Creamy, dreamy, and surprisingly simple, this dish promises to become your new go-to meal when you crave something delicious yet effortless.

Grab a fork and get ready to savor every single bite of this culinary masterpiece.

Pairing Ideas for One-Pot Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta

• Elevate Meal Enjoyment with Perfect Pairings
• Crisp White Wine Complement: Select a chardonnay or pinot grigio with light, buttery notes that beautifully match the creamy pasta's richness and complement the chicken's delicate flavor.
• Fresh Garden Salad Partner: Create a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette, which cuts through the dish's creaminess and provides a refreshing contrast with bright, tangy elements.
• Crusty Garlic Bread Sidekick: Prepare warm, toasted sourdough or ciabatta bread with garlic butter to soak up the delicious sauce and add delightful textural crunch to the meal.

Storage Advice for One-Pot Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days, keeping the pasta and chicken separate from the sauce to prevent sogginess.
• Transfer cooled pasta to freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 2 months. Separate liquid and solid components to maintain texture.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to restore creaminess. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
• Place portion in a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until thoroughly warmed.

FAQs About One-Pot Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta

• Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this one-pot chicken and spinach pasta can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat gently with a splash of extra milk to maintain the creamy consistency.

• Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While the recipe works best with short pasta like penne or rotini, you can substitute with other shapes like farfalle or shells. Just ensure cooking times remain similar.

• How can I make this dish more protein-rich?

Add extra protein by incorporating more chicken, using grilled shrimp, or stirring in some white beans. You can also top with additional grated Parmesan cheese for extra protein boost.

Why One-Pot Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Is a Weeknight Winner

• Simplify Cooking: Prepare a delicious meal using just one pot, minimizing cleanup and making dinner a breeze.
• Packed with Nutrition: Combine lean protein from chicken, iron-rich spinach, and calcium-loaded Parmesan for a wholesome dish that keeps you satisfied.
• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Create a creamy, flavorful pasta that appeals to both kids and adults, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
• Quick Weeknight Solution: Enjoy a restaurant-worthy meal in less than 30 minutes, ideal for busy households craving a homemade dinner without extensive preparation.

Ingredients for One-Pot Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta

• Chicken: A lean protein that adds substance and flavor to the one-pot pasta dish.

• Pasta: The hearty foundation of the recipe that creates a satisfying meal.
• Chicken Broth, Milk: Liquids that create a creamy and flavorful cooking environment for the pasta.

• Garlic: A fragrant ingredient that provides depth and aroma to the dish.
• Parmesan Cheese: A salty and rich cheese that helps create a creamy sauce.
• Spinach: A nutritious green vegetable that adds color and nutrients to the pasta.

• Salt, Black Pepper, Red Pepper Flakes: Spices that help balance and enhance the overall taste of the dish.

• Olive Oil: A heart-healthy oil used to cook the chicken and prevent sticking.

How to Make One-Pot Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta

Step 1: Sizzle Chicken to Golden Perfection

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sprinkle chicken with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken, turning occasionally, until it develops a beautiful golden-brown exterior, around 6-7 minutes. Transfer the chicken to a nearby plate and set aside.

Step 2: Awaken Garlic’s Aromatic Magic

Toss minced garlic into the same pot. Stir and cook for about a minute until the kitchen fills with a delightful, fragrant aroma.

Step 3: Create Creamy Pasta Wonderland

• Chicken broth
• Milk
• Pasta

Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer, stirring occasionally, for 10-12 minutes until pasta reaches perfect tenderness.

Step 4: Blend Cheesy Comfort

Incorporate Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce transforms into a silky, creamy consistency. Return the cooked chicken to the pot and add fresh spinach. Gently stir until spinach wilts and becomes vibrant green.

Step 5: Final Flavor Flourish

Taste and adjust seasonings with additional salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Serve immediately while hot and steaming.

Pro Tips for One-Pot Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta

• Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts to ensure quick and even cooking without excess fat.
• Choose fresh spinach for a vibrant green color and maximum nutritional benefits; frozen spinach works well when drained thoroughly.
• Rinse pasta under cold water to stop cooking and prevent overcooking, maintaining perfect al dente texture.
• Add red pepper flakes gradually to control spice level, letting each person customize heat according to preference.
• Use low-sodium chicken broth to manage salt content and allow more control over seasoning during cooking.

Variations of One-Pot Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta

• Mediterranean Herb Pasta: Replace spinach with sun-dried tomatoes and add fresh basil and oregano for a Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile.
• Spicy Southwest Chicken Pasta: Include diced green chilies, cumin, and swap Parmesan for pepper jack cheese to create a zesty southwestern version.
• Mushroom Alfredo Chicken Pasta: Incorporate sliced cremini or button mushrooms and use heavy cream instead of milk for a richer, earthier sauce.
• Protein-Packed Green Pasta: Substitute chicken with ground turkey and add kale instead of spinach for an extra nutrient-dense meal.

One-Pot Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 24 reviews

• Total Time: 23-25 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Creamy chicken and spinach pasta emerges as a comforting culinary masterpiece, blending tender chicken with silky spinach in a single pot. Mediterranean flavors dance through this effortless meal, inviting you to savor each delectable bite of pure kitchen magic.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

Pasta and Vegetables:

• 8 ounces (226 grams) penne pasta
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

Liquids and Seasonings:

• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 1/2 cups milk
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Red pepper flakes (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Sauté diced chicken in olive oil over medium heat for 6-7 minutes until golden brown, seasoning with salt and pepper. Transfer cooked chicken to a separate plate.
2. Infuse the same pot with minced garlic, releasing aromatic flavors for approximately 60 seconds.
3. Combine chicken broth, milk, and pasta in the pot, bringing the mixture to a rolling boil. Reduce heat to low, allowing the pasta to gently simmer and absorb liquid for 10-12 minutes, stirring intermittently until pasta reaches perfect tenderness.
4. Incorporate Parmesan cheese, creating a luxurious, velvety sauce. Return chicken to the pot and fold in fresh spinach, allowing the greens to delicately wilt and absorb the creamy essence.
5. Taste and calibrate seasoning with additional salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. Serve immediately while the dish maintains its warm, comforting temperature.

Notes

• Boost protein by using Greek yogurt instead of milk for a tangy, protein-rich sauce that adds extra nutrition.
• Swap chicken for tofu or chickpeas to create a delicious vegetarian version that maintains the creamy texture and flavor profile.
• Choose whole wheat pasta to increase fiber content and add more complex carbohydrates, making the dish more filling and nutritionally balanced.
• Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels, allowing you to customize seasoning without overwhelming the dish’s delicate flavors.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 18-20 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 480 kcal
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 620 mg
• Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 42 g
• Cholesterol: 75 mg