This Chicken & Spinach Skillet Pasta is the perfect one-pan meal for busy weeknights. Juicy chicken, tender pasta, and fresh spinach come together in a creamy sauce that’s bursting with flavor. Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor, and ready in just 30 minutes—this dish will quickly become a family favorite!
Ingredients
For the Pasta Dish:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 1/2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 8 oz penne pasta (or your favorite pasta shape)
- 3 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Optional Garnishes:
- Crushed red pepper flakes
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Preparation
Cook the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season chicken pieces with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté Garlic
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
Add Liquid and Pasta
- Pour in the chicken broth and milk, scraping the bottom of the skillet to deglaze. Bring to a boil.
- Add the pasta, stirring to ensure it’s submerged in the liquid. Cover and reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Incorporate Spinach and Chicken
- Stir in the fresh spinach, allowing it to wilt into the pasta.
- Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and mix until combined.
Add Cheeses
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the top, cover the skillet, and let it sit for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts.
Variation Ideas
- Protein Options: Swap chicken for shrimp, ground turkey, or tofu for a different twist.
- Veggie Additions: Add mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers for extra vegetables.
- Herbal Twist: Garnish with fresh basil or thyme instead of parsley for a fragrant finish.
- Lighter Option: Use half-and-half or a non-dairy milk alternative instead of whole milk for fewer calories.
Cooking Notes
- Adjust the liquid amount as needed; add a splash more broth if the pasta absorbs too much and the skillet looks dry.
- Pre-shredded cheese may not melt as smoothly as freshly grated cheese due to anti-caking agents.
- For al dente pasta, reduce the simmering time slightly and let it finish cooking in the residual heat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Chicken & Spinach Skillet Pasta with a simple green salad, crusty garlic bread, or a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips
- For a pop of acidity, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the finished dish before serving.
- To save time, use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking raw chicken.
- Use baby spinach for a milder flavor and easier wilting.
Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Sodium: 720mg
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, thaw the frozen spinach and squeeze out excess moisture before adding it to the skillet.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but you can refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute regular pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta. Be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Conclusion
This Chicken & Spinach Skillet Pasta is a lifesaver on busy nights, offering a delicious and satisfying meal without the mess. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and fresh spinach make it a versatile dish everyone will love. Try it tonight and add this recipe to your weeknight dinner rotation!