Chicken Pasta With Spinach And Garlic

Name: Chicken Pasta With Spinach And Garlic
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz. pasta (your choice); 2 chicken breasts, diced; 2 cups fresh spinach; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Parmesan cheese for garnish

Highlighted under: Simple Pleasures

I absolutely love this Chicken Pasta with Spinach and Garlic because it's a delightful blend of flavors that comes together in just 30 minutes. The tender chicken paired with fresh spinach and aromatic garlic creates a comforting yet elegant dish that I can enjoy any night of the week. Every time I make it, I am reminded of how simple ingredients can create a wholesome meal. Whether it's a busy weekday dinner or a cozy gathering, this dish never fails to impress my family and friends.

Created by

Eliza Thornton

Last updated on 2026-02-27T18:25:35.704Z

When I first tried making this Chicken Pasta, I was surprised by how quickly it came together, yet it felt so gourmet. I used fresh spinach straight from my garden, and the vibrant color combined with the garlicky aroma filled my kitchen with joy. Since then, I've been exploring variations with different vegetables and spices, and each time it turns out deliciously unique!

I found that letting the garlic cook until it's just golden unlocks a deeper flavor without being overpowering. The creamy texture of the sauce binds everything beautifully, making each bite a celebration of simple, fresh ingredients. I encourage everyone to experiment with adding your favorite herbs or a squeeze of lemon for a bright finish.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
The harmonious blend of garlic and spinach provides a fresh, vibrant taste.
Quick and easy to make, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Creamy sauce brings everything together for a satisfying meal.

Understanding the Ingredients

The choice of pasta is crucial in this Chicken Pasta with Spinach and Garlic recipe. I recommend using something like fettuccine or penne, which can hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully due to their flat or tubular shapes. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can also be great alternatives if you're looking for a healthier option. Just keep in mind that different pastas may require different cooking times, so be sure to read the package directions carefully.

Fresh spinach is the star of this dish, adding both nutrients and a vibrant color. When sautéing, the spinach will reduce significantly in volume—don’t be alarmed! To avoid overcooking the spinach, keep an eye on it; it should only take about 2-3 minutes until it's wilted but still retains its bright green color. If you don’t have fresh spinach on hand, you can substitute it with frozen spinach; just remember to thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before adding.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Results

When sautéing the chicken in olive oil, aim for medium heat to achieve a golden-brown exterior without drying it out. If your chicken is browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly. Checking the chicken's internal temperature with an instant-read thermometer can help prevent overcooking—look for an internal temperature of 165°F. If you're short on time, using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut; you can simply add it after cooking the garlic to heat it through.

The heavy cream in this recipe not only thins out the sauce but also adds a rich, velvety texture. To ensure a luscious sauce, keep the heat low when adding the cream. Mixing over high heat can cause it to split, losing that creamy mouthfeel. For a lighter version, you can swap out the heavy cream for half-and-half or Greek yogurt, though this may alter the richness slightly.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Chicken Pasta

Ingredients

8 oz. pasta (your choice)
2 chicken breasts, diced
2 cups fresh spinach
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Parmesan cheese for garnish

Instructions

Instructions

Cooking Steps

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 and set aside.

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, seasoning with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Garlic and Spinach

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the fresh spinach and sauté until wilted.

Combine Ingredients

Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until well coated.

Serve

Serve warm, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Enjoy Your Meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding red pepper flakes when sautéing the chicken. You can also incorporate sun-dried tomatoes or mushrooms for more depth.

Serving Suggestions

For a delightful presentation, consider garnishing your Chicken Pasta with Spinach and Garlic with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice for a zesty kick that complements the richness of the cream. This dish pairs wonderfully with garlic bread or a side salad to round out your meal.

If you want to elevate your dish further, consider tossing in some sun-dried tomatoes or olives for added flavor and texture. These ingredients can provide a contrasting element that enhances the overall experience of the dish.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the Chicken Pasta with Spinach and Garlic in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce, preventing it from becoming too thick.

You can also freeze this dish for convenience. Just be sure to use a freezer-safe container, and it should keep well for up to three months. To reheat from frozen, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then warm it up on the stove as mentioned, to maintain that creamy texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat pasta instead?

Yes, whole wheat pasta works perfectly in this recipe and adds extra fiber.

→ Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream for a lighter option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to toss in bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli for added nutrition and flavor.