The Cheesy Spinach Chicken Pasta Recipe is an absolute game changer when it comes to comforting weeknight meals. Imagine tender chicken pieces bathed in a luscious, creamy sauce loaded with fresh spinach and three kinds of cheese, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. This dish is not only rich and satisfying but also incredibly simple to whip up, making it one of those recipes you’ll want to save and make again and again. Whether you’re feeding a family or just craving something cozy and delicious, this pasta delivers on flavor and heartwarming goodness every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Cheesy Spinach Chicken Pasta Recipe plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the silky cheeses that create the sauce to the vibrant spinach adding freshness and color, each component is simple but essential for this delicious meal.
- Olive oil: Used to cook the chicken and garlic, providing a subtle fruity base without overpowering flavors.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Tender protein, cut into bite-sized pieces for easy eating and quick cooking.
- Salt and black pepper: Basic but crucial for seasoning the chicken perfectly and enhancing all other flavors.
- Garlic, minced: Adds a wonderfully aromatic and savory punch that blends beautifully with spinach and cheese.
- Fresh spinach: Brings a tender, slightly earthy taste and vibrant green color; frozen spinach works well too if fresh isn’t available.
- Cream cheese: Creates a decadent base, adding richness and smoothness to the sauce.
- Heavy cream: Makes the sauce luxuriously creamy and silky, balancing the flavors.
- Parmesan cheese, grated: Offers a sharp, nutty character that deepens the sauce’s complexity.
- Mozzarella cheese, shredded: Melts beautifully for that classic cheesy stretch and softness.
- Dijon mustard (optional): A subtle tang that wakes up the sauce and ties everything together.
- Garlic powder: Amplifies garlic flavor and gives an extra layer of depth.
- Onion powder: Adds gentle sweetness and rounds out the savory profile.
- Pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your choice): The canvas that carries the creamy, cheesy sauce every bite.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: A fresh, bright garnish to finish the dish with a lovely herbal note.
How to Make Cheesy Spinach Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cooking the pasta al dente is key here—it ensures a perfect bite that isn’t mushy. Once cooked, drain the pasta but keep half a cup of the pasta water; this starchy liquid will come in handy later to adjust the sauce’s consistency.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season your chicken pieces generously with salt and black pepper. Cook them for 6 to 8 minutes until they’re golden brown and cooked through. This step is where chicken develops flavor and texture. Remove and set aside; you’ll add it back in later.
Step 3: Make the Cheesy Spinach Sauce
Using the same skillet, sauté minced garlic for about a minute until fragrant—this step fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma! Then add your spinach. If it’s fresh, cook until wilted. If frozen, make sure it’s thawed and drained, then warm through thoroughly. Turn the heat to low and stir in the cream cheese until it melts into a silky sauce.
Step 4: Add Cream and Cheeses
Now pour in the heavy cream and add Parmesan, mozzarella, Dijon mustard (if using), garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir gently but thoroughly until the sauce is creamy, well combined, and utterly irresistible.
Step 5: Combine Chicken and Pasta
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, ensuring each piece is coated with the cheesy spinach sauce. Add your drained pasta and toss everything together carefully. If the sauce feels too thick, splash in some reserved pasta water until you reach the perfect saucy consistency.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top and add more Parmesan if you like extra cheesiness. Serve immediately to enjoy the sauce at its creamy best.
How to Serve Cheesy Spinach Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a simple but stunning garnish that infuses a burst of color and a hint of earthiness. Feel free to sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese or even cracked black pepper on top for an extra touch of flavor and contrast.
Side Dishes
This pasta shines as a complete meal but pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or a warm, crusty garlic bread. These sides add crunch and bright freshness to balance the creamy richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this Cheesy Spinach Chicken Pasta Recipe in individual oven-safe ramekins topped with a sprinkle of mozzarella, then broil until bubbly and golden. It’s perfect for an elegant dinner or impressing guests with a personal cheesy bake.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cheesy Spinach Chicken Pasta should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and eaten within 3 days for the freshest taste. The flavors actually meld and deepen after a day, making leftovers a delightful treat.
Freezing
You can freeze this pasta, but for best texture and flavor, do so before adding any fresh herbs. Use freezer-safe containers and consume within 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for gentle reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave with a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and keep the chicken tender and the sauce creamy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess water in your sauce. Cooking the frozen spinach a little longer helps remove any remaining moisture.
What type of pasta works best?
Penne, fettuccine, or any medium-sized pasta that holds sauce nicely is ideal. Feel free to use your favorite pasta shape for a fun twist on this Cheesy Spinach Chicken Pasta Recipe.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
While this recipe relies heavily on cheese for its characteristic creaminess, you can try dairy-free cream cheese and mozzarella substitutes, but note the flavor and texture will differ.
Is Dijon mustard necessary?
Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang that brightens the sauce, but it’s optional. If you prefer to omit it, your dish will still be deliciously cheesy and flavorful.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes! Mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted red peppers make fantastic additions and complement the cheesy spinach sauce beautifully.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a cozy, comforting dish with an irresistible cheesy spinach twist, this Cheesy Spinach Chicken Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s quick to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for sharing with friends or family. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be making it again in no time!
Print
Cheesy Spinach Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
This Cheesy Spinach Dip Chicken Pasta is a creamy, comforting dish packed with tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a luscious blend of cream cheese, Parmesan, and mozzarella. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that feels indulgent yet homey. The sauce is enriched with garlic and Dijon mustard for a subtle kick, coating perfectly cooked pasta for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Chicken and Pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 300g (about 10 oz) pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your choice)
Cheesy Spinach Sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped (or 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Extra grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water, and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken pieces with salt and black pepper. Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes until fully cooked and nicely browned. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Make the Cheesy Spinach Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes; if using frozen spinach, add and cook for 1-2 minutes to heat through. Lower the heat and stir in the cream cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add Dairy and Seasonings: Pour in heavy cream and add Parmesan, mozzarella, Dijon mustard (if using), garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir continuously until the sauce is creamy and well combined.
- Combine Chicken and Pasta: Return cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring it into the cheesy spinach sauce. Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together until pasta is thoroughly coated. Use the reserved pasta water to thin the sauce if it is too thick.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and extra grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your creamy cheesy chicken spinach pasta!
Notes
- You can substitute frozen spinach if fresh is not available; just make sure to thaw and drain excess water.
- Dijon mustard adds a tangy depth but can be omitted for a milder flavor.
- Reserve pasta water helps adjust the sauce consistency without diluting flavor.
- Use a pasta shape that holds sauce well, such as penne or fettuccine, for best results.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be less rich.
