Chicken And Spinach Skillet Pasta Recipe

There's something incredibly comforting about a one-pan pasta dish bubbling away on the stove. This Chicken and Spinach Skillet Pasta combines tender chunks of chicken, perfectly al dente pasta, and a creamy, garlicky sauce with just enough wilted spinach to make it feel like a balanced meal.

I discovered this recipe on a weeknight when time was tight and my fridge was nearly bare. What started as a quick fix using leftover chicken turned into a go-to dinner that we now make at least once a week.

This recipe is a weeknight winner you'll want to keep in regular rotation. Let's dive into why it's so irresistible.

Why You'll Love This Chicken and Spinach Skillet Pasta

It only takes one bite to understand why this dish is such a hit. The combination of creamy sauce, juicy chicken, and tender pasta all cooked in one skillet is pure comfort.

First off, it’s quick and easy. From start to finish, this meal takes about 30 minutes. There’s no need to boil the pasta separately or dirty multiple pans—everything comes together in one skillet for minimal cleanup.

It's budget-friendly and uses pantry staples. With ingredients like pasta, chicken, garlic, and spinach, you probably already have most of what you need. Plus, it's a great way to use up leftover chicken or veggies.

The flavor is rich and satisfying. A touch of garlic, a splash of cream, and a handful of parmesan cheese create a luscious sauce that clings to every bite.

You can customize it easily. Swap in kale or mushrooms, use whole wheat pasta, or spice it up with crushed red pepper. It’s incredibly adaptable to your preferences or what you have on hand.

With so many reasons to love it, this dish is sure to become a regular in your dinner lineup.

Ingredients Notes

This dish is all about simple ingredients coming together in the best possible way. Each one plays a role in building layers of flavor and texture.

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are lean, cook quickly, and stay tender when seared properly. You could also use chicken thighs for a juicier result if preferred. Just be sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly.

Short pasta varieties like penne, fusilli, or rotini work best here. Their ridged surfaces hold onto the sauce beautifully. Cooking the pasta right in the skillet helps absorb flavor and keeps everything cohesive.

Fresh spinach adds a burst of color and nutrition. It wilts quickly and blends into the dish without overpowering it. If using frozen spinach, make sure it’s well-drained to avoid watering down the sauce.

Heavy cream forms the base of the sauce, giving it a rich and silky texture. For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half, though the final result won’t be quite as indulgent.

Parmesan cheese brings a salty, umami kick that enhances every other ingredient. Grate it fresh if you can—it melts more smoothly and has a stronger flavor than the pre-shredded kind.

You’ll also need a large, deep skillet with a lid to allow the pasta to simmer properly without drying out.

How To Make This Chicken and Spinach Skillet Pasta

Making this dish is as easy as it is delicious. Here's how it all comes together.

Start by heating a bit of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add your diced chicken in a single layer. Let it sear without moving it for a few minutes so it develops a golden crust. Flip and cook until no longer pink, then transfer to a plate.

In the same skillet, reduce the heat slightly and add a bit more oil if needed. Toss in your minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown—it can turn bitter quickly.

Add your dry pasta directly to the skillet, followed by chicken broth and a splash of cream. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 12-14 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Once the pasta is cooked, return the chicken to the skillet along with the fresh spinach. Stir until the spinach wilts down and everything is evenly combined. If the mixture looks too thick, add a splash more cream or broth to loosen it up.

Finish by stirring in grated parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.

In just under 30 minutes, you’ll have a full-flavored meal that tastes like it took twice as long. Perfect for busy nights or when you want comfort food without the fuss.

Storage Options

Leftovers of this Chicken and Spinach Skillet Pasta keep wonderfully, making it ideal for meal prep or next-day lunches.

Store any remaining pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure it cools to room temperature before sealing to avoid excess moisture.

If you want to freeze it, portion it out into freezer-safe containers. It will keep for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that cream-based sauces can separate slightly when thawed, but a gentle reheat with a splash of milk or broth usually brings it back together.

To reheat, microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Alternatively, reheat on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of liquid to loosen the sauce.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is. Here are a few ways to mix it up:

Swap out the protein: Try cooked Italian sausage, shrimp, or even rotisserie chicken for an even quicker version. Each brings its own twist to the flavor profile.

Change up the greens: No spinach? Use kale, arugula, or even chopped broccoli florets. Just be sure to adjust cook times depending on the veggie.

Make it vegetarian by omitting the chicken and adding in mushrooms or canned white beans for extra heartiness.

Add more flavor with herbs and spices. A pinch of crushed red pepper adds heat, while fresh basil or thyme can brighten the whole dish.

Try it with different cheeses like fontina, mozzarella, or a touch of blue cheese for a more adventurous take.

Print