Go Back
When it comes to weeknight dinners, finding a dish that strikes the perfect balance between convenience, flavor, and nutrition can often feel like a Herculean task. Enter the Delightfully Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Skillet—a dish that not only simplifies the cooking process but also delivers a rich and satisfying meal in one pan. This creamy pasta dish combines tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and al dente pasta in a luscious sauce, making it an instant favorite for families and busy professionals alike.

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Skillet

Discover the joy of easy weeknight dinners with the Delightfully Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Skillet. This one-pan meal combines tender chicken, fresh spinach, and al dente pasta in a rich, creamy sauce that your family will love. With its simple preparation and harmonious flavors, it's not just a dinner; it's a heartfelt meal. Perfect for busy nights, this flavorful dish is both comforting and nutritious, making it an instant favorite for any dinner table. Get ready to enjoy a delightful culinary experience!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

8 oz (225g) penne or fusilli pasta

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

Salt and black pepper to taste

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme)

1 cup (240ml) chicken broth

1 cup (240ml) heavy cream

1 cup (100g) fresh spinach, roughly chopped

½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese

Zest of 1 lemon

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta:

    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne or fusilli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

      Sauté the Chicken:

        In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Season the chicken pieces with salt and black pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

          Aromatics and Flavor:

            In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and dried Italian herbs. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

              Create the Sauce:

                Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Allow it to reduce slightly, about 3-4 minutes. Then, stir in the heavy cream and continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.

                  Incorporate Spinach and Cheese:

                    Add the chopped spinach and grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts into the sauce.

                      Combine Pasta and Chicken:

                        Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the drained pasta. Toss everything together gently to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce. Stir in the lemon zest for a fresh burst of flavor.

                          Serve and Garnish:

                            Remove from heat and taste for seasoning, adding more salt and pepper if desired. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley. Enjoy your creamy chicken and spinach pasta skillet!

                              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 min | 30 min | Serves 4