Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne with Spinach Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

To add an extra dimension of flavor, consider finishing the dish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

The acidity of the lemon cuts through the richness of the sauce, providing a bright, refreshing contrast. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes during the garlic sauté stage can also introduce a subtle warmth that elevates the dish.

If the sauce appears too thick after combining with the pasta, add one or two tablespoons of the reserved pasta cooking water.

The starch in this water helps to emulsify the sauce, making it creamier and helping it adhere better to the pasta. This is a standard technique used in professional kitchens to achieve the perfect consistency for any creamy pasta dish.

Variations

• Sun-Dried Tomato Version: Add 1/4 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes along with the garlic for a tangy, concentrated sweetness that complements the creamy parmesan base beautifully.
• Mushroom Garlic Penne: Sauté 8 ounces of sliced cremini mushrooms with the chicken to add an earthy, savory depth that pairs perfectly with the garlic and parmesan sauce.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure the food cools to room temperature within 2 hours before placing it in the refrigerator.

Reheat

Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce as it warms. Stir frequently until heated through.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent the pasta from absorbing too much of the sauce. Keep the container in the coldest part of the refrigerator. If the dish was left out at room temperature for more than two hours, it should be discarded to ensure food safety. Properly stored, it will remain fresh for up to three days.

While this dish is best served immediately, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time. Cut the chicken, grate the cheese, and mince the garlic earlier in the day and keep them in the refrigerator.

You can also boil the pasta slightly less than al dente, rinse it with cold water, and toss it with a little oil to prevent sticking until you are ready to finish the dish.

Serving ideas

Serve this creamy garlic chicken penne in wide, shallow bowls to showcase the beautiful texture of the sauce and the vibrant green of the spinach.

A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette provides a crisp, acidic balance to the creamy pasta, making for a well-rounded meal. Ensure the plates are warm if possible to keep the sauce at its ideal consistency for longer.

For those who enjoy extra texture, a sprinkle of extra grated parmesan on top just before serving adds a pleasant depth. Pair the meal with a crusty piece of garlic bread or a simple piece of toasted sourdough to soak up any remaining sauce at the bottom of the bowl. This makes the dining experience complete and encourages every last drop to be enjoyed.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne with Spinach

Prep 10 minCook 20 minTotal 30 minServes 4

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 lb penne pasta
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated
• 2 cups spinach

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne until al dente. Meanwhile, sear the chicken in a hot skillet until golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
2. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Stir in the parmesan cheese to create a rich, creamy base. Add the spinach and cook until it just begins to wilt into the sauce.
3. Add the cooked penne and chicken to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is thoroughly coated in the creamy garlic parmesan sauce and the dish is heated through.

Contains: gluten, milk

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

580

Protein

32 g

Carbohydrates

55 g

Fat

25 g

Fiber

2.5 g

Sugar

3 g

Sodium

650 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.