Chicken Spinach Penne

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner that the whole family will love, you’ve come to the right place! This Chicken Spinach Penne is one of those comforting dishes that never fails to impress. With tender pieces of chicken, vibrant spinach, and perfectly cooked pasta enveloped in a creamy sauce, it’s like a warm hug on a plate. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual family gathering, this recipe shines in its simplicity and rich flavor.

What makes this dish even more special is how easy it is to whip up. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can bring this delightful meal to the table. Grab your apron and let’s dive into this favorite recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Chicken Spinach Penne comes together in just 30 minutes—perfect for those hectic evenings!
• Family-Friendly: The creamy sauce and tender chicken make this dish appealing for both kids and adults.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with spinach and lean protein, it’s a wholesome choice you can feel good about serving.
• Make Ahead: You can prep the ingredients in advance to save time when you’re ready to cook.
• Deliciously Satisfying: The combination of flavors creates a rich, comforting dish that everyone will ask for again!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have on hand. They come together beautifully to create a creamy Chicken Spinach Penne that will become a staple in your kitchen!

For the Main 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

The beauty of Chicken Spinach Penne lies in its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up according to your taste or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use turkey or even shrimp for a different twist on this dish.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for an extra burst of color and nutrition.
• Make it lighter: Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt or a light cream alternative to reduce calories without sacrificing flavor.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or feta for unique flavor profiles.

How to Make Chicken Spinach Penne

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

First things first—let’s get our penne pasta cooking! Follow the package directions until it’s al dente. This means it should be firm but not hard when you bite into it. Drain the pasta but remember to reserve about half a cup of that starchy pasta water; it’ll help bring everything together later.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

While your pasta cooks, heat up some olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season those bite-sized pieces of chicken with salt and pepper before adding them to the hot skillet. Browning the chicken adds depth of flavor, so let it cook until it’s fully cooked through and golden brown. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Now, let’s bring some sweetness to our dish! In the same skillet, add your chopped onion and let them cook until softened—this should take about five minutes. Adding minced garlic next gives off an amazing aroma; cook it for just another minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Add Spinach

Time to incorporate some greens! Add your thawed spinach into the skillet. Stir it around until it’s heated through; this only takes about one or two minutes. The spinach not only boosts nutrition but also adds beautiful color.

Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce

Pour in your chicken broth and heavy cream next! Bring everything to a simmer as you stir; this helps thicken the sauce slightly. It’s important because we want that perfect creamy consistency that clings beautifully to our pasta.

Step 6: Finish with Cheese

Stir in your grated Parmesan cheese along with that optional pinch of nutmeg if you’re using it. The cheese will melt into the sauce creating an irresistible creamy texture that’s simply divine!

Step 7: Combine Everything

Now toss in your cooked penne pasta along with those browned chicken pieces back into the skillet. Gently mix everything together; if your sauce seems too thick, add some reserved pasta water gradually until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 8: Serve It Up!

And just like that—you’re ready to serve! Dish out generous portions topped with extra Parmesan cheese if you like. Enjoy your homemade Chicken Spinach Penne fresh from the stovetop!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Spinach Penne

Cooking is all about enjoying the process and making it your own! Here are some tips to ensure your Chicken Spinach Penne turns out perfect every time:

• Use fresh spinach: If you have access to fresh spinach, feel free to substitute it for frozen. Fresh spinach adds a vibrant color and flavor that elevates the dish.
• Don’t overcook the chicken: To keep your chicken tender and juicy, cook it just until it’s no longer pink in the center. Overcooking can lead to dryness.
• Reserve pasta water: This starchy water is a secret weapon! Adding a bit of reserved pasta water helps adjust the sauce’s consistency while enhancing flavor.
• Customize with herbs: Feel free to add fresh herbs like basil or parsley at the end for a burst of freshness. They can lighten up the dish and add an aromatic touch.
• Make ahead: This recipe holds up well in the fridge, so consider making a double batch for easy meal prep. Just reheat and enjoy it during busy weeknights!

How to Serve Chicken Spinach Penne

Serving Chicken Spinach Penne can be as delightful as cooking it! With a few thoughtful touches, you can create a beautiful presentation that impresses family and friends.

Garnishes

• Extra Parmesan cheese: A light sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan not only enhances the flavor but also adds a touch of elegance to your plate.
• Fresh herbs: Chopped basil or parsley sprinkled on top adds color and freshness, making your dish visually appealing and aromatic.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: A warm slice of garlic bread pairs perfectly with this creamy pasta, allowing you to soak up that delicious sauce.
• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the penne, adding freshness to your meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring depth and texture to your plate. Try asparagus or zucchini drizzled with olive oil for a healthy side.
• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli complements the dish’s flavors while adding nutrients. Plus, its crunch offers a nice contrast to the creamy pasta.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in hand, you’re all set to create a memorable meal with Chicken Spinach Penne that guests will rave about long after dinner is over!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken Spinach Penne is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep. It stores well and can be made in advance, making weeknight dinners a breeze!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• Let the Chicken Spinach Penne cool down completely.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. For best quality, consume within 1-2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce.
• Alternatively, use a microwave-safe dish and heat in short bursts, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that you might find helpful!

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen in Chicken Spinach Penne?

Absolutely! If you prefer fresh spinach, simply sauté it along with the onions until wilted. You may need about 6-8 cups of fresh spinach to replace the frozen package.

How can I make Chicken Spinach Penne healthier?

To make this dish lighter, consider using whole-grain penne pasta and reducing the amount of heavy cream. You can also increase the vegetable content by adding bell peppers or zucchini.

What should I serve with Chicken Spinach Penne?

This creamy pasta pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or garlic bread. A light vinaigrette will complement the richness of the penne nicely!

How long does it take to prepare Chicken Spinach Penne?

This recipe is quick and easy! You can have it ready in just 30 minutes from start to finish.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this comforting Chicken Spinach Penne! It’s a special dish that brings together flavors and textures in such a delightful way. Whether it’s for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal with loved ones, this recipe is sure to please. Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite!