This Chicken Spinach Penne is a perfect blend of flavor and nutrition, combining tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and hearty penne pasta. Learn how to make it step-by-step!
Chicken Spinach Penne is the ideal dish for a quick, healthy meal that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. Whether you are preparing dinner for your family or hosting a special gathering, this dish brings together the best of both worlds: tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a satisfying penne pasta. With simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you can prepare this dish at home in no time. Keep reading for a comprehensive guide to making the best Chicken Spinach Penne, complete with tips on substitutions, variations, and pairing suggestions.
The Recipe
Cooking Time, Preparation Time, and Servings
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Preparation Time: 10 minutes
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Cooking Time: 20 minutes
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Total Time: 30 minutes
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Servings: 4 servings
Why You Will Love This Chicken Spinach Penne Recipe
Chicken Spinach Penne stands out for several reasons. Here are five key points that make this dish a must-try:
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Healthy and Nutritious: The combination of lean chicken and fresh spinach provides a wealth of essential vitamins and minerals, making this dish a healthy choice for your meal.
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Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just about 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meals.
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Flavorful: The chicken, spinach, and penne pasta come together with a rich and creamy sauce, creating a comforting and delicious experience for your taste buds.
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Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients or flavors based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.
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Family-Friendly: This dish is sure to please the whole family, from kids to adults, thanks to its well-balanced flavors and easy preparation.
Ingredients Notes
The beauty of Chicken Spinach Penne lies in its simplicity. Here are the key ingredients and notes for perfecting the dish:
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Chicken: Skinless boneless chicken breasts work best in this recipe, offering a lean protein source.
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Penne Pasta: You can use regular penne or whole wheat penne for a slightly healthier alternative.
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Spinach: Fresh spinach will give the dish the best texture and flavor, but frozen spinach can be used in a pinch.
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Cream: To achieve a creamy consistency in the sauce, heavy cream is recommended. For a lighter version, substitute with half-and-half or a plant-based cream.
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Cheese: Parmesan cheese is essential for adding richness and depth to the sauce.
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Seasonings: Fresh garlic, salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes will elevate the flavors.
How to Make Chicken Spinach Penne
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Cook the Penne Pasta: Begin by boiling water in a large pot. Add salt and cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
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Cook the Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, season your chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and any other spices you like. In a skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove from the skillet, let it rest for a few minutes, then slice it into thin strips.
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Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté it in the residual chicken juices for about 1 minute. Add fresh spinach and cook until it wilts. Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce becomes creamy.
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Combine the Pasta and Chicken: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated with the sauce and spinach. Finally, add the sliced chicken and mix gently.
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Serve: Divide the Chicken Spinach Penne into serving plates and garnish with more Parmesan cheese if desired.
Storage Options
Chicken Spinach Penne can be stored for later enjoyment. Here’s how to store it properly:
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Refrigeration: Store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Reheat thoroughly in a skillet or microwave.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about Chicken Spinach Penne is its versatility. Here are some creative twists:
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Substitute Chicken: Use turkey breast or tofu for a different protein.
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Add Mushrooms: For added texture and flavor, sauté mushrooms along with the spinach.
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Spice It Up: If you prefer a spicier dish, add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
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Non-Dairy Version: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream to make this dish vegan-friendly.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free penne pasta if you need to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Pairings and Accompaniments
Chicken Spinach Penne pairs wonderfully with several sides and drinks:
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Side Dishes: Serve with a light green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables like carrots or zucchini.
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Beverages: A crisp white wine or a refreshing sparkling water will complement the flavors of this dish beautifully.
Comparison with Similar Recipes
While Chicken Spinach Penne shares similarities with other pasta dishes, such as Chicken Alfredo or Chicken Primavera, it stands out due to its lighter, healthier profile. The creamy sauce, combined with the fresh spinach and protein-packed chicken, gives this dish a more balanced feel compared to heavier versions with cream-based sauces or multiple ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can you put spinach in chicken pasta?
Yes, spinach adds great flavor and texture to chicken pasta, making it both nutritious and delicious.
Can we eat chicken and spinach together?
Absolutely! Chicken and spinach are a classic combination, offering a balance of protein and vitamins.
Are chicken and spinach healthy?
Yes, both chicken and spinach are rich in nutrients. Chicken provides lean protein, while spinach is packed with iron, fiber, and antioxidants.
What to season chicken with for pasta?
Season chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and herbs like thyme or rosemary to complement the pasta dish.
Best Time to Enjoy the Recipe
Chicken Spinach Penne is perfect for dinner or lunch. Its quick preparation makes it a great option for weeknights, but it can also be served at special gatherings or dinner parties.
Presentation Tips
To make Chicken Spinach Penne visually appealing, serve it in wide, shallow bowls. Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese and a few fresh basil leaves for a pop of color. You can also drizzle a bit of olive oil on top for a glossy finish.
Conclusion
Chicken Spinach Penne is a versatile, tasty, and healthy recipe that’s perfect for a quick meal any day of the week. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and creamy pasta creates a well-rounded dish that will satisfy your taste buds and leave you feeling nourished. Whether you stick to the classic version or get creative with substitutions, this dish is sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire.
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