Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta

A delicious and comforting pasta dish featuring tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a creamy sauce, perfect for a family dinner.

NewPublished Mar 17, 2026
Prep Time15 min
Cook Time30 min
Total45 min
Servings4
DifficultyEasy

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Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta served in a bowl.

Ingredients

Servings4

Yields 4 servings

  • (8 oz) penne pasta
  • (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • (2 tbsp) olive oil
  • (3 cloves) garlic, minced
  • (4 cups) fresh spinach
  • (1 cup) heavy cream
  • (1/2 cups) grated Parmesan cheese
  • (1/2 tsp) salt
  • (1/4 tsp) black pepper
  • (1/4 tsp) red pepper flakes (optional)
  • (1/4 cups) chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. 1

    Cook 8 oz penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

  2. 2

    While the pasta cooks, cut 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.

  3. 3

    In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Cook for 6-8 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink. Add 2/4 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional).

  4. 4

    Add 3 cloves minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

  5. 5

    Stir in 4 cups fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.

  6. 6

    Reduce the heat to low and pour in 1 cup heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.

  7. 7

    Add 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and the sauce is creamy. If using, add 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

  8. 8

    Combine the cooked pasta with the creamy chicken and spinach sauce, tossing to coat evenly.

  9. 9

    Serve hot, garnished with 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley.

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