I’ve got to say, Comforting Creamy Chicken Spinach Penne is my go-to for those weeknights when I need a hug in a bowl. It’s a cinch to whip up, and sure beats takeout, right? Picture tender chicken, bright spinach, and a sauce that’s, well, downright dreamy. Plus, you can throw in extras like sun-dried tomatoes or load it with cheese if you’re feeling adventurous. Ready to uncover the steps to make this delightful dish?
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
When you take a bite of this creamy chicken spinach penne, you might just find yourself drifting into food heaven. Seriously, who wouldn’t love a dish packed with tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and that oh-so-smooth creamy sauce?
It’s like a warm hug in a bowl. The flavors blend so beautifully, it’ll have you asking, “Why did I ever settle for plain pasta?” Plus, it comes together surprisingly quickly, so you won’t feel like a frantic chef.
And let’s be real, after a long day, whipping up this chicken spinach penne feels less like cooking and more like magic. With each spoonful, I can’t help but smile. Trust me, it’ll quickly become a family favorite—yours too.
Equipment List
Preparing this creamy chicken spinach penne requires a few essential kitchen tools, and trust me, having the right ones makes all the difference.
First up, you’ll need a large pot to cook the pasta and keep things from bubbling over. A good knife is a must for slicing the chicken and chopping garlic—my knife skills could use some work, but I manage.
Don’t forget a cutting board, because nobody wants to be chopping on the counter. You’ll also want a whisk for that cream and cornstarch mix, plus a large skillet to bring everything together.
Optional, but super helpful, are measuring cups and spoons, so you don’t end up eyeballing—trust me, that rarely goes well. Additionally, investing in high-quality mixing bowls can enhance your cooking experience and make food prep much easier.
Happy cooking!
Our Ingredients
When it comes to cooking delicious meals, having the right ingredients is essential, and the creamy chicken spinach penne is no exception. This dish isn’t just tasty; it’s comforting and fulfilling, perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in.
Before you head off to the grocery store, let’s take a moment to gather everything you’ll need for this delightful meal.
Here’s a handy list of the ingredients you’ll want to pick up:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ¾ tsp salt
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- ⅛ tsp red chili flakes
- 2¼ cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4½ cups dry penne pasta (375 g)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 cups spinach, chopped
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Now that you’re equipped with the ingredients list, you might be wondering if there’s room to swap or add a few things. Absolutely! For instance, if you’re not a fan of chicken, you could easily substitute it with shrimp or even chickpeas for a vegetarian spin.
And let’s be real, sometimes the grocery store doesn’t have everything, so if you can’t find fresh spinach, frozen will do in a pinch—though fresh definitely adds a nice pop of color and flavor.
Also, when it comes to the spices, feel free to tweak them to your taste. Maybe you like it a little warmer; toss in more chili flakes if that tickles your fancy.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making the creamy chicken spinach penne isn’t only easy, but it’s also a delightful way to impress your family or guests with your culinary skills. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you’ll be on your way to a comforting and delicious meal. Let’s dive right into it!
- Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add 1 pound of sliced boneless skinless chicken breasts. Sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they’re beautifully golden brown. (Don’t rush this step; that golden color adds fantastic flavor.)
- While the chicken cooks, chop up 3 cloves of garlic and gather your spices: 1 teaspoon of dried basil, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, ¾ teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of dried thyme, and a pinch (⅛ teaspoon) of red chili flakes. Once the chicken is golden, toss in the garlic and the spices. Cook for an additional minute until everything becomes fragrant—your kitchen should be smelling amazing right about now!
- Next, add 2¼ cups of low-sodium chicken broth and a 14-ounce can of diced tomatoes to the skillet. Stir it all together, then toss in 4½ cups of dry penne pasta. Yes, this is the moment where the magic happens. Bring it to a simmer over medium-low heat, cover the skillet, and let it cook for 9-10 minutes. (Keep an eye on it, and stir occasionally to prevent sticking. We want tender penne, not a stuck-on mess.)
- Once the pasta is al dente, check that the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F. Carefully remove the chicken from the skillet and slice it up for easier serving. It’s okay if the chicken looks a tad pale; it’ll shine once we get everything back together.
- To thicken up the sauce while keeping it creamy, whisk together ½ cup of heavy cream and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch in a small bowl. Stir this mixture into the skillet, and you’ll start noticing it getting thicker and oh-so-satisfying. This is where creamy dreams come true.
- Now return the sliced chicken back into the skillet, followed by 2 cups of chopped spinach. Stir everything together just until the spinach wilts—this should only take a minute. Don’t forget to sprinkle in ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese for a delightful touch of flavor! Taste your sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed; maybe it needs a pinch more salt or a little extra heat.
And there you have it! Serve your creamy chicken spinach penne warm and enjoy the satisfied grins as your family digs in. This dish is comforting, delightful, and comes together faster than you can say “what’s for dinner?” Enjoy!
Additionally, having the right professional kitchen equipment can enhance your cooking experience and efficiency in preparing this dish.
Tips & Variations
While I mightn’t be a professional chef—or even someone who can perfectly chop an onion without shedding a few tears—I’ve learned that little tweaks and creative variations can really elevate this creamy chicken spinach penne dish.
For instance, try tossing in a handful of sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, swap out the chicken for shrimp or even some sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
I sometimes add a sprinkle of nutmeg to the cream; trust me, it adds an unexpected warmth. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a bit of extra cheese?
Experimenting keeps things fun in the kitchen, and I promise, it’s hard to go wrong when you’re having a blast.
How to Serve?
If you’re looking to impress family or friends with a delightful dinner, serving up this creamy chicken spinach penne is a great way to start.
I usually dish it up in big, colorful bowls, letting the creamy sauce shimmer under the light. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top? Yes, please.
And don’t forget a side salad for that fresh crunch—trust me, it balances the creaminess perfectly. If you want to kick it up a notch, some garlic bread on the side always gets a thumbs up.
Watching everyone partake? That’s the best part; I can’t help but chuckle when they go for seconds. Who could resist that creamy goodness? It’s truly a hit!
Storage & Reheating Guide
Have you ever wondered what to do with leftovers from such a delicious meal? I know I have.
To store your creamy chicken spinach penne, simply let it cool before placing it in an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for about 3-4 days—perfect for easy lunches.
Want to freeze it? Just scoop some into a freezer-safe container, and it should last for up to 3 months. Using soup freezer containers can help maintain the quality of your meal while stored.
When it’s time to indulge again, I usually reheat mine on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or a bit of cream to bring back the creamy goodness.
I’ve learned the hard way that microwaving can make it clump together—yikes.
Enjoy round two, and don’t underestimate leftovers!
Final Thoughts
As I sit here reflecting on my experience making creamy chicken spinach penne, I can’t help but smile at just how simple yet satisfying this dish is. Seriously, who knew I could whip up something so delicious without causing a kitchen disaster?
The creamy sauce, the tender chicken, and all that cozy spinach really hit the spot. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl.
I’ll admit, I may have gone a little wild with the cheese, but can you blame me? Each bite is a little slice of happiness.
And hey, next time you’re in the mood for comfort food, give this recipe a shot. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you, and you might surprise yourself with how good it turns out.
