Chicken Spinach Pasta Recipe

Enjoy this rich and creamy Chicken Spinach Pasta, a perfect weeknight dinner idea featuring tender chicken, flavorful spinach, and a deliciously seasoned Parmesan sauce. This easy chicken pasta recipe is ideal for family meals or elegant dinners. Packed with wholesome ingredients, it’s a must-try dish for fans of one-pot pasta recipes. Whether you’re looking for a comforting dinner or a quick pasta recipe with chicken, this is sure to become a favorite!

Ingredients:

For the Sauce:

• 1 cup half and half
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon mustard powder
• ½ teaspoon EACH: basil, oregano, onion powder, parsley
• ¼ teaspoon garlic salt
• 1 pinch red pepper flakes

For the Chicken, Pasta, and Others:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast
• 1 ½ teaspoons lemon pepper seasoning (see notes)
• ½ pound Mezzi rigatoni (see notes)
• ½ cup dry white wine (see notes)
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 2 tablespoons softened cream cheese
• ¾ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 3 cups packed baby spinach (or up to 4 oz.)
• 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Sauce: Combine all sauce ingredients in a large measuring cup with a spout and set aside. Measure out the remaining ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process.
2. Cook the Chicken: Cut the chicken into bite-sized cubes. Pat completely dry and season with lemon pepper seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until a golden-brown crust forms. Remove and set aside.
3. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Once boiling, add salt (about ½ tablespoon) and stir. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions. Drain when cooked.
4. Deglaze the Pan: While the pasta cooks, add the white wine to the same skillet used for the chicken. Set the heat to medium and use a silicone spatula to scrape up the flavorful brown bits from the bottom of the pan. Simmer until reduced by half, about 4 minutes.
5. Make the Roux: Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute. Melt the butter, then sprinkle in the flour. Stir continuously for 1-2 minutes until the raw flour smell disappears.
6. Create the Sauce: Gradually add the prepared sauce mixture to the skillet in small splashes, stirring constantly to maintain the sauce’s thickness. Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
7. Finish the Sauce: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the cream cheese until combined—any small particles will melt when the pasta is added. Gradually sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly. Partially cover the skillet and keep warm until the pasta is ready.
8. Combine Everything: Add the spinach to the sauce and let it wilt, about 2 minutes. Stir in the lemon juice, cooked pasta, and seared chicken. Toss everything together until heated through.
9. Serve: Serve the chicken spinach pasta warm and enjoy!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy Sauce: The combination of Parmesan, cream cheese, and half and half creates an irresistible sauce.
• Balanced Flavors: A hint of lemon juice and red pepper flakes add brightness and depth.
• Nutritious: Packed with lean chicken and fresh spinach for a wholesome meal.
• Restaurant-Quality Dish: Easy enough for weeknights yet elegant for special occasions.

Tips

• Pat the Chicken Dry: This ensures a good sear and prevents steaming.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: This helps it hold up better when tossed with the sauce.
• Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese may not melt as smoothly.
• Deglaze the Pan Thoroughly: Scrape up all the browned bits for maximum flavor.

Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Options: Substitute chicken with shrimp, turkey, or even tofu.
• Pasta Choices: Swap Mezzi rigatoni for penne, fettuccine, or your favorite pasta shape.
• Vegetables: Add mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for extra veggies.
• Wine-Free: Replace white wine with chicken broth if you prefer not to use alcohol.
• Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream substitute along with nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, prepare the sauce and chicken in advance. Reheat gently and combine with freshly cooked pasta and spinach.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or cream.

Q: How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?
A: Avoid boiling the sauce after adding the cream cheese and Parmesan. Use low heat for a smooth consistency.

Serving and Suggestions

• Family Dinner: Serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad.
• Elegant Meal: Pair with a glass of dry white wine and garnish with fresh parsley.
• Leftovers: Use as a filling for baked pasta dishes or enjoy over zucchini noodles for a lighter option.

Enjoy this creamy, flavorful Chicken Spinach Pasta recipe that’s sure to impress and satisfy!