Chicken Spinach Penne

If you’re looking for a dish that’s as comforting as a warm hug, then this creamy Chicken Spinach Penne is just what you need. This recipe is a favorite in my kitchen because it brings together tender chicken and vibrant spinach, all enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. Plus, it’s always a hit at family gatherings, making it the kind of meal everyone can enjoy!

What I love most about this Chicken Spinach Penne is how simple it is to prepare. You can whip it up in just about 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for both casual dinners and special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: You can get this dish on the table in just 30 minutes—perfect for a weeknight meal.
• Family-Friendly: The creamy sauce and pasta make it appealing to kids and adults alike!
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with spinach and lean chicken, it’s a wholesome choice that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
• Flexible Recipe: Customize with your favorite veggies or pasta shapes based on what you have at home.
• Make-Ahead Option: Leftovers taste great the next day, making lunch prep a breeze!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this delightful dish, you’ll only need simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need to create your Chicken Spinach Penne:

For the Pasta Dish

• 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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variation ideas:

• Swap the protein: Try using grilled shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different twist.
• Add extra veggies: Toss in some cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for added color and nutrition.
• Change the pasta shape: Use fusilli or farfalle instead of penne—it’ll still taste delicious!
• Make it lighter: Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream if you want a lighter sauce without losing creaminess.

How to Make Chicken Spinach Penne

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking your penne pasta according to the package directions until it’s al dente. This ensures that the pasta has just the right amount of bite when mixed with the creamy sauce. Don’t forget to reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining—the starchy water will help adjust the sauce later!

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season your bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and pepper before adding them to the skillet. Sauté until they’re golden brown and cooked through—this step adds flavor and texture that makes each bite delightful!

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Next, remove the cooked chicken from the skillet. Add chopped onions and sauté them until they become soft—about 5 minutes. The goal here is to bring out their natural sweetness! After that, add minced garlic and cook until fragrant; this will infuse your dish with wonderful aromas.

Step 4: Add Spinach

Now it’s time to add that beautiful green spinach! Make sure it’s thawed and well-drained before tossing it into the skillet. Cook for another minute or two until everything is heated through; this adds nutrients while keeping things vibrant.

Step 5: Create Your Creamy Sauce

Pour in chicken broth along with heavy cream to create a luscious sauce. Bring everything to a gentle simmer so that flavors can meld together beautifully; this will also thicken up slightly as it cooks.

Step 6: Stir in Cheese

Stir in grated Parmesan cheese along with a pinch of nutmeg if you’re feeling adventurous! This cheese adds richness and depth to your sauce that makes every forkful irresistible.

Step 7: Combine Everything

Add your cooked penne pasta along with the sautéed chicken back into the skillet. Toss everything together gently so each piece is coated with that creamy goodness. If your sauce seems too thick, just mix in some reserved pasta water until it’s just how you like it.

Step 8: Serve Up!

Finally, serve immediately while hot! Top each plate with extra Parmesan cheese for that finishing touch—it really elevates this dish from good to unforgettable. Enjoy every bite of your homemade Chicken Spinach Penne!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Spinach Penne

Cooking can be a delightful experience, and a few tips can elevate your Chicken Spinach Penne to new heights!

• Use fresh spinach: While frozen spinach works just fine, fresh spinach adds a vibrant flavor and texture that enhances the dish. It will also wilt beautifully into the sauce, giving you that fresh taste.

• Adjust the creaminess: If you prefer a lighter sauce, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream. This way, you can still enjoy that creamy texture without being too rich.

• Cook pasta al dente: Cooking your penne until it’s just firm to the bite ensures it retains its structure when mixed with the sauce. Plus, it will absorb flavors better!

• Add herbs for freshness: Fresh basil or parsley sprinkled on top before serving can bring an extra layer of flavor and brighten up your plate visually.

• Customize with veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition and to cater to your taste preferences.

How to Serve Chicken Spinach Penne

This Chicken Spinach Penne dish is not only delicious but also attractive when plated! Here are some ideas to make your meal even more appealing.

Garnishes

• Extra Parmesan Cheese: Grate some fresh Parmesan over the top just before serving for a rich, savory finish.
• Chopped Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley adds color and freshness, making your dish pop visually.
• Cracked Black Pepper: A light dusting of freshly cracked black pepper adds a touch of spice and enhances the overall flavor profile.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up any leftover creamy sauce, garlic bread is a classic pairing that never disappoints.
• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta.
• Steamed Broccoli: Adding steamed broccoli not only introduces another nutritious element but also offers a nice crunch alongside the creamy texture.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring out natural sweetness and earthy flavors that complement the richness of this dish beautifully.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Chicken Spinach Penne will be both scrumptious and impressively presented! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken Spinach Penne recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious home-cooked meals throughout the week without any hassle.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Portion out the Chicken Spinach Penne into freezer-safe containers.
• Label with the date and contents.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or reserved pasta water to keep it creamy.
• Alternatively, microwave in a microwave-safe dish until heated through, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious dish!

Can I use whole wheat penne for Chicken Spinach Penne?

Absolutely! Whole wheat penne adds extra fiber and a nutty flavor that complements this creamy dish beautifully.

How can I make Chicken Spinach Penne healthier?

You can substitute heavy cream with a lighter alternative like half-and-half or Greek yogurt. Additionally, using whole grain penne and adding more vegetables can enhance its nutritional profile.

What other ingredients can I add to Chicken Spinach Penne?

Feel free to include sun-dried tomatoes, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added flavor and texture. You can also experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or feta!

Can I make this Chicken Spinach Penne recipe vegetarian?

Certainly! Omit the chicken and replace it with chickpeas or your favorite plant-based protein. You can still enjoy all the creamy goodness of the sauce!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Chicken Spinach Penne! This dish brings together comforting flavors and textures that are sure to warm your heart. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, this recipe is versatile and satisfying. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your experience!