Crafting a reliable weeknight meal starts with dependable ingredients, simple techniques, and bold flavor. This Chicken and Spinach Skillet Pasta brings all three together in a single pan, creating a comforting dish that feels hearty yet fresh. With tender chicken, wilted greens, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, this recipe is designed for busy evenings when you still want something satisfying. Everything simmers in one skillet, saving time on prep and cleanup while delivering a balanced, full-flavored dinner the whole family can enjoy.
Print
Chicken and Spinach Skillet Pasta: A Complete One-Pan Dinner Guide
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Chicken and Spinach Skillet Pasta made in one pan for a fast, flavorful, and creamy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 cup diced onion
1 teaspoon minced garlic
2 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
8 ounces uncooked penne pasta
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper (optional)
½ cup half-and-half
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
5 ounces fresh baby spinach
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Warm 2 tablespoons of the olive oil in a deep 12-inch skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook, stirring often, until the pieces are fully cooked, about 3 to 4 minutes. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and keep warm.
Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Stir in the onion and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, or until softened. Add the garlic and cook for about 1 minute.
Pour in the broth, tomatoes, pasta, crushed red pepper, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir well. Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover, reduce the heat to medium-low, and let it simmer until the pasta is tender, about 15 minutes.
Stir in the half-and-half and mozzarella, letting the sauce heat gently until the cheese melts.
Remove the skillet from the heat and fold in the spinach until it wilts. Sprinkle with Parmesan before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Quick & Easy Dinners
- Method: One-pan stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
The Benefits of Chicken and Spinach Skillet Pasta
How this dish delivers fast weeknight flavor
This skillet meal brings together ingredients that cook quickly and absorb seasoning beautifully. Boneless chicken pieces sear in minutes, onions soften with minimal effort, and pasta simmers directly in broth and tomatoes. The result is a rich base that needs no separate boiling pot. The warm sauce coats every bite without requiring complicated steps.
Nutritional advantages of a balanced chicken and spinach pasta meal
Chicken provides lean protein while spinach adds vitamins, antioxidants, and a boost of color. Cooking everything in the same pan helps the pasta absorb nutrients from the broth and tomatoes. Fresh greens stirred in at the end also keep their texture and flavor, rounding out the dish with a wholesome balance.
Why one-pan chicken dinners save time and effort
This dish uses one skillet from start to finish, reducing dishes and creating a streamlined cooking process. Pasta absorbs liquid as it cooks, eliminating the need to drain or transfer anything. It’s a practical approach when dinner needs to be on the table fast, making it ideal for weeknight routines or last-minute meals.
Ingredients That Make Chicken and Spinach Skillet Pasta Stand Out
Essential pantry staples that support the dish
Olive oil, broth, canned tomatoes, and pasta form the base of this flavorful skillet. These ingredients work together to create a simmering sauce that’s both rich and silky. Broth infuses the pasta with depth, while tomatoes lighten the overall texture.
Fresh add-ins that brighten the pasta
Diced onions and garlic add aromatic warmth. Baby spinach folds in effortlessly, bringing a slightly earthy note that balances the creaminess. Mozzarella melts into the sauce for a luscious finish, and a sprinkle of Parmesan provides sharp, savory contrast.
Flavor boosters for extra richness
A touch of crushed red pepper offers subtle heat, but you can increase the intensity depending on preference. Half-and-half contributes creaminess without overwhelming the dish. Together, these additions transform simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality dinner.
Step-by-Step Method for the Perfect Chicken and Spinach Skillet Pasta
Preparing the chicken base
A quick sear locks in moisture and develops a golden exterior. Seasoning with Italian herbs, salt, and pepper builds a flavorful layer from the start. Once cooked, the chicken rests briefly while the onions and garlic soften in the same skillet, creating a cohesive flavor foundation.
Simmering the pasta for tenderness
Once broth, tomatoes, seasonings, and pasta are added, everything cooks at a gentle simmer. The pasta absorbs the surrounding liquid while releasing starch, naturally thickening the sauce. Maintaining medium-low heat ensures the pasta cooks evenly without sticking.
Finishing with greens and cheese
Melting mozzarella into the creamy sauce creates smooth body without heaviness. Folding in fresh spinach takes only seconds, wilting perfectly from the residual heat. A touch of Parmesan at the end pulls everything together with a bold, savory finish.
Serving Ideas for Chicken and Spinach Skillet Pasta
Simple garnishes that elevate presentation
Freshly chopped basil, cracked black pepper, or an extra sprinkle of Parmesan can add vibrant finishing touches. These elements enhance aroma and bring a pop of color to the skillet.
Side dishes that pair well with this one-pan pasta
A crisp salad or roasted vegetables complement the creamy sauce. Garlic bread works well for soaking up the silky base, rounding out the meal without overwhelming it.
Presenting your one-pan dinner beautifully
Serve directly from the skillet for a rustic, family-style approach. Its rich colors—golden chicken, white mozzarella, bright green spinach—make the dish naturally attractive on the table.
Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating Tips
How long leftovers stay fresh
This dish keeps well for up to three days in the refrigerator. The creamy sauce maintains its structure, and the pasta remains tender without becoming mushy.
Best reheating method for maintaining texture
Reheat leftovers on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to restore the creamy consistency. Warming over medium-low heat ensures even reheating without drying out the chicken.
Freezer tips for maintaining quality
While cream-based pastas do not freeze as well as tomato-forward versions, this dish can be frozen if needed. Store in airtight containers and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stove.
Variations of Chicken and Spinach Skillet Pasta
Creamier versions
To boost creaminess, swap half-and-half for light cream or add a spoonful of cream cheese. These adjustments create a fuller sauce while keeping the one-pan approach intact.
Spicy twists
Increase crushed red pepper or stir in chili-garlic paste for a bolder flavor profile. This adds a vibrant kick that balances the creamy elements beautifully.
Veggie-forward adjustments
You can add mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers to increase the vegetable content. Sauté these after the onions before simmering the pasta to maintain texture and color.
FAQs
What helps a spinach chicken pasta cook evenly in one pan?
Even heat, enough liquid, and occasional stirring allow the pasta to cook uniformly. Keeping the lid on during simmering helps retain steam, ensuring tenderness.
How can I adjust a pasta chicken spinach recipe for more creaminess?
Add extra half-and-half or melt in a little cream cheese during the final steps. This thickens the sauce and enriches the overall texture.
Can I substitute vegetables in a spinach chicken pasta?
Yes. Kale, Swiss chard, or broccoli make excellent substitutions while keeping the balance of flavors intact. Add firmer vegetables earlier in the cooking process.
How do I prevent pasta in a pasta chicken spinach recipe from overcooking?
Monitor it during the final minutes of simmering and test for doneness. Removing the dish from heat once tender prevents residual heat from over-softening the noodles.
Conclusion
Crafting this Chicken and Spinach Skillet Pasta is all about blending comfort with efficiency. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and fresh greens, each bite delivers warmth and satisfaction. The one-pan technique keeps preparation straightforward, making it ideal for busy nights or relaxed weekends. Serve it as a complete meal or pair it with your favorite side dishes—either way, this skillet pasta brings reliable flavor every time. For more one-pan ideas, explore comforting dishes like this creamy Parmesan mushroom chicken or try a vibrant twist with an easy Mexican chicken and rice skillet.
For more successful recipes, you can visit our Pinterest account