Chicken Spinach Penne

This creamy Chicken Spinach Penne is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and hearty pasta in a luscious sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, it offers comfort and satisfaction in every bite. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or impressing guests, this recipe stands out with its rich flavors and easy preparation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of chicken, spinach, and creamy sauce creates a dish bursting with taste.
• Versatile Ingredients: This recipe uses easily accessible ingredients that you may already have on hand.
• Comfort Food Appeal: Perfectly satisfying for those cozy nights when you crave something warm and filling.
• Family-Friendly: A hit with both kids and adults, making it an ideal choice for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your experience and make cooking more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Essential for sautéing the chicken and creating the creamy sauce all in one pan.
• Pot for boiling pasta: Ensures even cooking of the penne to achieve that perfect al dente texture.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware while combining ingredients.

Ingredients

This creamy Chicken Spinach Penne is a quick, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, spinach, and pasta in a rich, creamy sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner that’s both comforting and satisfying!

For the Sauce

• 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

For the Pasta

• 1 lb penne pasta
• Pinch of nutmeg (optional)

How to Make Chicken Spinach Penne

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

Cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

While the pasta is cooking:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
3. Add the chicken to the skillet.
4. Cook until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook Onions and Garlic

Add the chopped onion to the skillet:
– Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
– Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Add Spinach

Add the thawed spinach to the skillet:
– Cook for a minute or two until heated through.

Step 5: Create Creamy Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream:
– Bring to a simmer.
– Cook for a few minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

Stir in Parmesan cheese:
– Add a pinch of nutmeg if desired.
– Toss in cooked penne pasta and cooked chicken. If too thick, add reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.

Step 7: Serve

Serve immediately:
– Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese as desired.

Enjoy your delicious Chicken Spinach Penne!

How to Serve Chicken Spinach Penne

This creamy Chicken Spinach Penne is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether you want to keep it simple or elevate it with sides and garnishes, here are some serving suggestions.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Basil or Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley adds color and enhances the flavor.
• Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can spice things up.

Pair with Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for a delightful crunch that complements the creamy sauce.
• Focaccia: This soft, flavorful bread is perfect for sopping up any remaining sauce on your plate.

Add a Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad offers a crisp contrast to the creamy pasta.
• Mixed Green Salad: Combine mixed greens with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing side.

Serve in Individual Bowls

• Personalized Portions: Serving Chicken Spinach Penne in individual bowls makes for an elegant presentation and allows guests to customize their dishes.

How to Perfect Chicken Spinach Penne

To ensure your Chicken Spinach Penne turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Boldly Season Your Chicken: Proper seasoning at each step enhances the overall flavor. Don’t be shy with salt and pepper.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Follow package instructions closely to achieve that perfect bite. This helps the pasta hold its shape when mixed with the sauce.
• Use Fresh Spinach When Possible: While frozen spinach works well, fresh spinach can provide a brighter flavor and better texture.
• Adjust Sauce Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach the desired creaminess.
• Experiment with Cheese: Try different cheese varieties like Pecorino Romano or Asiago to give a unique twist to the dish.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Spinach Penne

Complement your Chicken Spinach Penne with these delicious side dishes that enhance flavors and textures.

1. Garlic Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted in garlic adds color and nutrients.
2. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus drizzled with olive oil brings freshness and crunch.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing contrast.
4. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and olive oil offers a delicious starter.
5. Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, zucchini noodles provide a light side that pairs well with the creamy sauce.
6. Quinoa Salad: A hearty quinoa salad mixed with veggies offers protein and fiber while keeping it light.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Chicken Spinach Penne can be a delightful experience, but there are common mistakes that can affect the dish’s outcome.

• Overcooking the pasta: This can lead to mushy penne that doesn’t hold up in the sauce. Always cook pasta until al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce.
• Skipping seasoning: Neglecting to season your chicken and vegetables can result in bland flavors. Make sure to add salt and pepper at every stage of cooking for a more robust taste.
• Not using enough liquid: If the sauce is too thick, it won’t coat the pasta well. Reserve some pasta water and add it gradually to achieve your desired consistency.
• Ignoring ingredient temperature: Using cold chicken or spinach can lower the skillet’s temperature, affecting cooking time. Always allow them to come to room temperature before cooking.
• Rushing the sauce: A rushed sauce may not develop deep flavors. Allow your cream and broth mixture to simmer gently for a few minutes for optimal taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Chicken Spinach Penne

• Use a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Chicken Spinach Penne

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat on low in a skillet, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of chicken broth or reserved pasta water if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Chicken Spinach Penne.

What is Chicken Spinach Penne?

Chicken Spinach Penne is a creamy pasta dish that combines tender chicken pieces, spinach, and penne pasta in a rich sauce.

Can I customize Chicken Spinach Penne?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.

How do I make Chicken Spinach Penne healthier?

You can use whole grain penne for added fiber or substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter option without sacrificing creaminess.

What should I serve with Chicken Spinach Penne?

This dish pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal experience.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Spinach Penne recipe is not only quick and easy but also allows for plenty of customization options. You can experiment with various vegetables or cheeses based on your preference. Give this comforting dish a try; it’s perfect for busy weeknights!