This creamy chicken and spinach penne is a flavorful, comforting dish that combines tender chicken, fresh spinach, and perfectly cooked pasta, all coated in a rich and creamy sauce. With just the right amount of garlic, Parmesan cheese, and a touch of tomato, this easy-to-make meal is perfect for any weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Overview of the Recipe
This recipe for creamy chicken and spinach penne is both delicious and nutritious. It features penne pasta tossed with sautéed chicken, garlic, fresh spinach, and a creamy Parmesan sauce. With a touch of fresh tomatoes for added flavor and a satisfying blend of textures, this dish is quick to prepare and perfect for busy evenings. Whether you’re looking for a quick family meal or a dish to impress guests, this creamy penne recipe will satisfy every palate.
History and Origin
Pasta dishes with creamy sauces are a staple of Italian-American cuisine, which combines traditional Italian flavors with new ingredients and culinary techniques found in America. The origins of creamy chicken pasta can be traced to various creamy pasta recipes such as Alfredo, a dish originally from Italy but popularized in the U.S. Creamy pasta dishes like this one have evolved over the years to include proteins like chicken and vegetables such as spinach. The simplicity of the ingredients, along with the ability to quickly prepare it, makes it a go-to dish for families worldwide.
Ingredients
To make this delicious and creamy chicken and spinach penne, you will need the following ingredients:
- 12 oz penne pasta
This tubular pasta is perfect for holding creamy sauces and works beautifully in this dish. - 2 chicken breasts, sliced into strips
Lean and tender chicken breasts are the main protein here. Cutting them into strips ensures even cooking. - 2 tablespoons olive oil
Used to sauté the chicken and garlic, olive oil adds richness and enhances the flavor of the dish. - 4 cloves garlic, minced
Garlic brings a fragrant and savory depth to the creamy sauce. - 1 cup heavy cream
Heavy cream is essential to creating the silky, rich texture of the sauce. - 1 cup chicken broth
The broth lightens the cream sauce slightly while adding a savory, chicken-forward flavor. - ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Parmesan cheese adds both creaminess and a nutty, savory flavor to the sauce. - 1 cup fresh spinach
Spinach provides a nutritional boost as well as a pop of color and freshness in the creamy sauce. - 1 large tomato, diced
Tomatoes bring acidity and sweetness, balancing out the richness of the sauce. - Salt and pepper, to taste
Used to season the dish to perfection. - Freshly ground black pepper (for garnish)
A final touch to enhance the presentation and flavor.
Instructions
Follow these detailed step-by-step instructions to create the perfect creamy chicken and spinach penne:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 12 oz of penne pasta and cook until al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking.
- Once the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander and set it aside. (Pro tip: Reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water in case you need to adjust the sauce later.)
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season the 2 chicken breasts (sliced into strips) with salt and pepper.
- Add the chicken strips to the hot skillet and cook them for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and fully cooked. Make sure there’s no pink in the middle of the chicken strips.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
- Using the same skillet (with the flavorful bits left from cooking the chicken), add the 4 cloves of minced garlic.
- Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute over medium heat, or until it becomes fragrant and starts to turn golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this can make it taste bitter.
Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
- After the garlic has sautéed, pour in the 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of chicken broth. Stir well to combine all the ingredients and deglaze the pan, incorporating any leftover flavors from the chicken.
- Allow the sauce to come to a gentle simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes until it starts to thicken slightly. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Step 5: Add the Spinach and Tomatoes
- Once the sauce has thickened, add the 1 cup of fresh spinach and the 1 large diced tomato into the skillet.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes soften slightly. The spinach should turn bright green and become tender.
Step 6: Combine Everything
- Return the cooked chicken and drained penne pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together gently until the chicken and pasta are well-coated in the creamy sauce.
- Stir in the ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce, adding extra creaminess and a salty, umami flavor.
- Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
- To serve, dish the creamy chicken and spinach penne onto plates. Garnish with freshly ground black pepper and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Enjoy this creamy, flavorful pasta dish while it’s hot!
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
This creamy chicken and spinach penne is versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides to complete your meal. Here are a few suggestions:
- Garlic Bread
Warm, crispy garlic bread is the perfect accompaniment to this rich pasta. It’s ideal for soaking up the creamy sauce. - Side Salad
A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can help balance the richness of the dish. Try a salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light lemon dressing. - Roasted Vegetables
Serve the penne with a side of roasted vegetables such as broccoli, zucchini, or carrots for added nutrition and flavor. - Mashed Potatoes
For an extra indulgent option, serve this pasta dish alongside creamy mashed potatoes.
Variations of the Recipe
This recipe is highly adaptable, and you can customize it to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Here are a few variations you can try:
- Vegetarian Version
Omit the chicken and double the amount of spinach or add other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers to the dish. - Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta
For a healthier or gluten-free alternative, you can substitute the regular penne with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta. - Spicy Kick
If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or sprinkle some cayenne pepper while cooking the chicken. - Cheese Lovers
For a cheesier version, add shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese to the sauce along with the Parmesan.
Health Benefits
This creamy chicken and spinach penne has several nutritional benefits, especially when made with wholesome ingredients:
- Lean Protein
Chicken breasts provide a good source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. - Healthy Fats
Olive oil is a heart-healthy fat that adds flavor and nutrients to the dish. - Spinach
Spinach is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium, making it a nutritious addition to this creamy pasta. - Balanced Carbohydrates
Penne pasta offers a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy to fuel your day.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken in advance. When ready to serve, cook the pasta fresh, and then combine everything together.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess.
Can I freeze this pasta?
Freezing is not recommended for creamy pasta dishes as the sauce may separate when reheated. However, you can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce separately, then prepare fresh pasta when ready to serve.
Conclusion
This creamy chicken and spinach penne is a delicious, satisfying meal that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce creates a comforting dish that everyone will love. Whether you serve it on its own or with a side salad or garlic bread, this pasta recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Plus, with customizable options and simple ingredients, you can adapt it to fit your dietary needs and preferences. Enjoy!