If you’re craving a dish that wraps you in cozy flavors and feels like a warm hug at the end of a busy day, this Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. Tender slices of chicken, vibrant fresh spinach, and perfectly cooked pasta come together in a luscious garlic cream sauce that’s both indulgent and satisfying. It’s a fantastic weeknight dinner that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen but actually takes just minutes to prepare. Get ready to fall in love with one of the easiest, most comforting meals you’ll ever make!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows multiple white bowls arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. The center bowl contains raw, light pink chicken pieces. Surrounding it are small white bowls with ingredients: finely chopped green scallions, chopped fresh green herbs, white shredded coconut, a small yellow lump of butter, white powdery flour, translucent golden liquid (likely oil), and pale liquid in a small cup. Larger white bowls hold green leafy spinach, chopped white and green onions, and a thick light cream. The overall setting is clean and organized, with a woman's hand about to reach for one of the bowls. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this recipe is simple yet essential, each bringing its own magic to the plate — from the savory, seasoned chicken to the bright pop of fresh spinach and the silky, cheesy sauce that ties everything together. Here’s what you’ll need to make this dish shine:

12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or rotini): Choose your favorite shape because it’s the hearty base that carries the sauce perfectly.
Salt, for boiling water: Adds flavor to the pasta from the inside out.
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced: Tender protein that absorbs the seasoning and stays juicy.
1 tbsp olive oil: Essential for cooking the chicken evenly and adding a lovely richness.
½ tsp salt: Balances the flavors in the chicken without overwhelming.
½ tsp black pepper: Adds a subtle kick to the savory chicken.
½ tsp Italian seasoning: Brings a fragrant herbaceous note to the dish.
2 tbsp butter: Melts into the sauce for that silky, comforting texture.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Packs bold aroma and flavor, the heart of the sauce.
1 cup heavy cream: Creates a rich and velvety base for the sauce.
½ cup chicken broth: Adds depth and balances the creaminess without weighing it down.
¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce for a tangy, cheesy finish.
3 cups fresh spinach: Adds color, freshness, and a nutrient boost.
Red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like to add a little heat and extra dimension.

How to Make Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cooking your chosen pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Be sure to reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining — this starchy water will be your secret weapon to perfect the sauce consistency later.

Step 2: Prepare the chicken

While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken, seasoning it with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken for about 5 to 6 minutes, turning occasionally until it’s beautifully golden on the outside and cooked through on the inside. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Make the garlic cream sauce

Using the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for around 30 seconds until fragrant – this step is key for a rich, aromatic sauce. Next, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, letting the mixture simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes to thicken slightly. Then, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes smooth and irresistible.

Step 4: Add the spinach

Now, toss in the fresh spinach. It will look like a lot, but spinach wilts down quickly, infusing the sauce with vibrant green color and a light, nutritious touch. Cook until the spinach is fully wilted and combined with the velvety sauce.

Step 5: Combine and finish

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then add the drained pasta. Toss everything together to coat the chicken, pasta, and spinach evenly with the luscious cream sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, stir in a splash of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired creaminess. For an optional spicy kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the top and give it one last gentle toss before serving warm.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Recipe

A black skillet sits on a white marbled surface holding a creamy pasta dish with three sliced pieces of brown, grilled chicken arranged in a semicircle on the top right. The pasta noodles are long and light yellow, mixed with wilted, dark green spinach leaves soaked in a creamy light beige sauce. A wooden spoon rests inside the pan on the right side, touching the food. The pan handle extends to the upper right corner. A white cloth with black stripes is partly visible at the bottom left corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Enhance your dish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or extra Parmesan cheese for a gorgeous, flavorful finish. A little extra black pepper freshly cracked over the top can lift the dish and make each bite perfectly balanced.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, perhaps with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or warm, crusty bread on the side is always a welcome companion to soak up every last drop of that heavenly sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special touch, serve the creamy chicken and spinach pasta in large rustic bowls to showcase the vibrant greens against the creamy sauce. Or plate it with a small mound of sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes on top to add layers of flavor and color. Either way, it’s a stunning meal made for sharing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen as it rests, making for delicious next-day meals.

Freezing

If you want to freeze your leftovers, it’s best to wait until the pasta has completely cooled, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that creamy sauces can sometimes separate, so take extra care when reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of cream or milk to bring back the sauce’s creamy consistency. Stir frequently to prevent the sauce from separating, and you’ll have a meal that tastes as good as freshly made.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! Penne, fettuccine, or rotini all work wonderfully because they hold the sauce well, but feel free to use any pasta shape you love. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute the regular pasta with your favorite gluten-free variety. The sauce and chicken stay the same, so it’s an easy swap without sacrificing any flavor or texture.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Definitely! Chicken thighs add extra juiciness and richness, which complements the creamy sauce beautifully. Just make sure to cook them thoroughly and slice them before adding back into the pasta.

How can I make the sauce lighter?

You can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a lighter cream alternative. The sauce will still be creamy but a bit less rich, making it perfect for those looking for a lighter meal.

What can I add to boost the flavors further?

For extra flavor, try adding sautéed mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Fresh herbs such as basil or thyme work nicely too, giving the dish a bright, fresh twist.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Recipe is one of those rare dishes that feels both luxurious and comforting, effortlessly bringing wow-factor to your dinner table with minimal fuss. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or yourself, it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your recipe collection. Give it a try, and I promise it will soon be your go-to meal for busy nights when you want something deeply satisfying and effortlessly delicious.