The Creamiest One-Pan Spinach & Artichoke Chicken Pasta Recipe

Crafting a delightful one-pan spinach & artichoke chicken pasta promises a culinary adventure that simplifies weeknight dinners.

Creamy textures and robust flavors merge seamlessly in this comforting dish.

Mediterranean ingredients dance together, creating a symphony of taste and convenience.

Weeknight cooking becomes effortless with minimal cleanup and maximum satisfaction.

Packed with protein and vibrant vegetables, this recipe delivers nutrition without compromising flavor.

Cheese lovers will adore the rich, melted goodness coating every tender pasta strand.

Come cook with me and transform an ordinary evening into a memorable meal.

Tips for Spinach & Artichoke Chicken Pasta

• Choose penne, rotini, or fusilli for different textures and fun presentation.
• Replace heavy cream with Greek yogurt or half-and-half for a healthier version.
• Add cooked shrimp or white beans for extra protein and variety.
• Cook chicken and vegetables in advance to reduce final cooking time.
• Incorporate extra vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for more nutrition.

Storing and Reheating Spinach & Artichoke Chicken Pasta

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 35 days. Keep the pasta separate from garnishes to maintain texture and freshness.
• Transfer cooled pasta to freezer-safe containers, removing excess air. Properly sealed, the dish stays good for up to 2 months. Avoid freezing if using heavy cream.
• Warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent drying. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 57 minutes.
• Place portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 3045 second intervals, stirring between each, until temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.

Pairings for Spinach & Artichoke Chicken Pasta

• Pair Perfectly with Wine Harmony: Crisp, unoaked Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio cuts through the creamy sauce, balancing the dish's richness with bright acidity.
• Complementary Side Salad Strategy: Craft a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to add fresh, zesty contrast against the pasta's creamy, rich profile.
• Bread Basket Boost: Serve warm, crusty garlic bread or herbed focaccia to soak up the delicious sauce and provide a satisfying textural counterpoint.
• Unexpected Flavor Enhancer: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or crispy pancetta bits on top for added crunch and depth, elevating the dish's overall complexity.

Variations of Spinach & Artichoke Chicken Pasta

• Gluten-Free Version: Replace regular pasta with gluten-free penne or zucchini noodles. Use cornstarch instead of flour for thickening and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free Alternative: Swap heavy cream with coconut milk or unsweetened almond milk. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a similar umami flavor. Select dairy-free chicken broth.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or plant-based chicken alternatives. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add extra mushrooms or white beans for protein boost.
• Low-Carb Adaptation: Replace pasta with cauliflower rice or spiralized vegetables like spaghetti squash. Increase protein portion and reduce overall carbohydrate content by using more chicken and fewer grains.

FAQs

• Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While the recipe suggests a specific pasta, you can easily swap it with penne, rotini, or fettuccine. Just ensure the cooking time matches the pasta type you choose.

• Is this dish spicy?

The recipe has a mild flavor, but you can add red pepper flakes for extra heat. Start with a small amount and adjust to your spice preference.

• Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Replace chicken with plant-based protein like tofu or chickpeas. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to maintain the creamy texture and flavor profile.

• How can I make this dish healthier?

Use whole wheat pasta, reduce the heavy cream by half and replace with low-fat milk, and add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to increase nutritional value.

One-Pan Spinach & Artichoke Chicken Pasta Overview

• Simplify your cooking with this single-skillet meal that minimizes cleanup and maximizes flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy cooking days.
• Packed with protein-rich chicken, nutrient-dense spinach, and hearty artichokes, this pasta delivers a balanced meal that satisfies both taste buds and health goals.
• Adaptable recipe allows for personal tweaks like adding extra spices, swapping protein, or adjusting vegetable quantities to suit individual preferences and dietary needs.
• Combines familiar ingredients in a delicious format that appeals to both adults and kids, making mealtime enjoyable and stress-free for the whole family.

Ingredients for Spinach & Artichoke Chicken Pasta

• Chicken: Tender protein that forms the hearty base of the one-pan meal.

• Spinach, Artichokes: Fresh green vegetables that add nutrition and vibrant flavor to the dish.
• Garlic: Aromatic ingredient that provides a rich, deep taste foundation.

• Chicken Broth: Flavorful liquid that helps cook the pasta and creates a savory base.
• Heavy Cream: Creamy ingredient that adds richness and smooth texture to the sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese: Salty, umami-rich cheese that melts into a delicious sauce.

• Pasta: Carbohydrate component that serves as the main starch of the dish.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall flavor profile.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Optional spicy ingredient that adds a subtle heat.

• Fresh Parsley: Bright herb that provides a fresh finish and visual appeal.

• Olive Oil: Versatile cooking fat used for sautéing chicken and vegetables.

How to Make One-Pan Spinach & Artichoke Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Season chicken with salt and pepper.

Cook until golden brown and fully cooked through.

Transfer chicken to a separate plate and set aside.

Step 2: Infuse Flavors with Garlic and Vegetables

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.

• Chopped spinach
• Artichoke hearts

Cook until spinach wilts and becomes vibrant green.

Remove vegetables from skillet and place with the cooked chicken.

Step 3: Create Creamy Pasta Base

• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream

Bring the liquid to a gentle simmer.

Add pasta and cover the skillet.

Stir occasionally while cooking until pasta becomes tender and liquid reduces substantially.

Step 4: Merge Ingredients Together

Return chicken and vegetable mixture to the skillet.

Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the pasta, allowing it to melt into a luxurious sauce.

Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

Step 5: Elevate and Serve

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and an additional sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

One-Pan Spinach & Artichoke Chicken Pasta Recipe

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• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Creamy one-pan spinach & artichoke chicken pasta delivers Italian-inspired comfort straight to dinner tables. Cheesy, herbaceous flavors meld perfectly with tender chicken, promising a quick weeknight meal that makes you crave seconds.

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Ingredients

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Proteins:

• 1 pound (454 grams) boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)

Pasta and Vegetables:

• 8 ounces (226 grams) penne or your preferred pasta
• 2 cups fresh spinach (chopped)
• 1 cup artichoke hearts (drained and chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)

Liquid and Seasoning Ingredients:

• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Garnish:

• Fresh parsley
• Extra Parmesan cheese

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Instructions

1. Prepare the protein by seasoning chicken with salt and pepper. Sear in a heated skillet with olive oil over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked. Transfer chicken to a separate plate.
2. In the same skillet, quickly toast minced garlic for 30 seconds, releasing its aromatic essence. Immediately add chopped spinach and artichokes, sautéing until spinach becomes tender and wilted, approximately 2-3 minutes.
3. Create the cooking liquid by combining chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Incorporate pasta, cover the skillet, and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring periodically to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
4. Reunite all components by returning the seared chicken and vegetable mixture to the skillet. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the creamy sauce and create a luxurious texture. Enhance flavors with additional seasoning, including optional red pepper flakes for a subtle heat.
5. Elevate the presentation by garnishing with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately while the dish remains warm and inviting.

Notes

• Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts for faster, more even cooking and easier slicing.
• Drain artichokes thoroughly to prevent excess liquid making the sauce watery and diluting flavors.
• Experiment with different pasta shapes like penne or rotini to catch more of the creamy sauce.
• For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or Greek yogurt to reduce calories while maintaining creaminess.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 600
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 40g
• Cholesterol: 150mg