Chicken Pasta With Spinach And Garlic

Name: Chicken Pasta With Spinach And Garlic
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts, diced; 8 oz pasta of choice; 3 cups fresh spinach; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Parmesan cheese, for serving

Highlighted under: 30-Minute Meals

I love making Chicken Pasta with Spinach and Garlic because it’s an easy yet incredibly satisfying dish. The vibrant greens and zesty garlic bring out the flavors of the succulent chicken. In just 30 minutes, I can serve up a comforting meal that feels gourmet. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or when I want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try this dish, it’ll become a regular on your dinner table!

Created by

Blair Hudson

Last updated on 2026-02-27T13:13:35.276Z

When I first made Chicken Pasta with Spinach and Garlic, I wanted a dish that would be quick yet full of flavor. I had leftover chicken and some fresh spinach, and it sparked my creativity. I sautéed garlic until fragrant, which turned out to be the star of the show! Adding it to the fresh chicken and spinach created a beautiful harmony of flavors that made the dish feel special.

One detail I love to incorporate is a splash of lemon juice at the end. It brightens the dish and pairs wonderfully with the earthiness of the spinach and the richness of the chicken. This simple addition has turned an already fantastic dish into an unforgettable meal!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Deliciously tender chicken melded with fresh spinach
Fragrant garlic that enhances every bite
Quick and simple preparation, perfect for busy nights

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh spinach is essential for this dish, as its vibrant flavor and color truly elevate the meal. Fresh spinach wilts beautifully and adds a tender texture that frozen spinach cannot replicate. Look for bright green leaves without any yellowing or wilting. If you're in a pinch, you can use kale or Swiss chard, but be mindful that these may require slightly longer cooking times to soften.

The quality of your chicken is another factor that impacts the overall taste. Opt for organic or free-range chicken breasts if possible, as they tend to have a richer flavor. When cooking, make sure not to overcrowd the skillet to ensure even browning. This creates a lovely crust on the chicken, enhancing its juiciness and flavor.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Pasta

When cooking pasta, proper timing is crucial. Always follow the package instructions for al dente cooking times, but start checking a minute or two early. The pasta should be firm to the bite, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the hot chicken and spinach. If you accidentally overcook the pasta, a splash of cold water can help halt cooking and improve texture.

Don't forget to salt your pasta water! It enhances the flavor of the pasta itself, making it a more integral part of the dish. Aim for water that tastes like the sea—this may seem excessive, but it's the secret to truly flavorful pasta.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Pasta

2 chicken breasts, diced
8 oz pasta of choice
3 cups fresh spinach
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Parmesan cheese, for serving

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes.

Add Garlic and Spinach

Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, then add the fresh spinach. Stir until the spinach is wilted.

Combine and Serve

Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss everything together. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese.

Enjoy your delicious meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider using whole grain pasta or adding crushed red pepper flakes for a kick.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you plan to make this dish ahead of time, prepare the chicken and pasta separately and store them in airtight containers in the fridge. Just keep in mind that cooked spinach can become soggy if stored too long. I recommend adding it just before serving to maintain its freshness and color. This way, you can whip up a quick meal by simply reheating the chicken and pasta together.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken separately while the pasta tends to lose its texture when frozen. When freezing, ensure the chicken is cooled completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw it overnight in the fridge when you're ready to enjoy this dish again.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Chicken Pasta with Spinach and Garlic, consider serving it with a side of crusty garlic bread or a fresh, crisp salad. This adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy Parmesan and garlic flavors. A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil right before serving can also enhance the dish's overall taste.

For a flavor twist, try adding some sliced sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers. These ingredients complement the dish's existing flavors wonderfully and add an extra layer of color and texture. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also give it a delightful kick while maintaining the main flavor profile.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach can be used. Just make sure to thaw and drain it properly before adding.

→ How can I make this dish creamy?

To create a creamier sauce, you could add a splash of cream or a dollop of cream cheese while combining the pasta and chicken.

→ Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?

Absolutely! Shrimp or tofu would both work well in this recipe.

→ What type of pasta works best?

Any pasta type works, but I recommend using spaghetti or fettuccine for nice texture.