Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Pasta with Chicken

A Wholesome Blend of Creamy, Savory, and Fresh Flavors

Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Pasta with Chicken is the ultimate comfort food with a touch of elegance. This dish combines tender, juicy chicken pieces, sautéed mushrooms, and fresh spinach tossed in a rich and creamy Parmesan sauce. Paired with perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a wholesome, satisfying meal that’s as delicious as it is simple to prepare.

One of the most appealing aspects of this recipe is its balance. The earthy flavor of mushrooms, the subtle sweetness of sautéed spinach, and the creaminess of the Parmesan sauce all work together to create a harmonious and indulgent dish. The chicken adds heartiness, making it a complete meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or even entertaining guests.

The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just yourself, this recipe is easy to scale up or down. It also allows room for creativity—you can adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences or what you have on hand. From swapping out the protein to adding extra veggies, the possibilities are endless while maintaining the comforting base of creamy pasta.

Cooking this dish is a sensory delight. The aroma of garlic and mushrooms sizzling in butter fills your kitchen, setting the stage for a meal that’s both inviting and flavorful. The creamy sauce, enriched with freshly grated Parmesan, coats every strand of pasta, creating a luscious texture that makes every bite irresistible.

Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Pasta with Chicken isn’t just a dish—it’s an experience. It’s about savoring the combination of simple ingredients transformed into something extraordinary. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, this recipe is sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen.

Preparation Time and Serving Size :

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Serves: 4

Ingredients :

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Pasta and Sauce:

• 8 oz penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti pasta
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
• 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ cup pasta water (reserved from cooking)
• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions :

1. Prepare the Chicken

• Season the Chicken: In a mixing bowl, toss the chicken strips with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
• Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

2. Cook the Pasta :

• Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ¼ cup of the pasta water before draining.

3. Make the Sauce :

• Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and mushrooms and sauté for 3-4 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and lightly browned.
• Add the Spinach: Stir in the spinach and cook for 1-2 minutes until wilted.
• Build the Creamy Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, then add the Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.

4. Combine and Serve :

7. Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the sauce. Return the chicken to the skillet and mix gently to combine.
8. Garnish and Serve: Plate the Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Pasta with Chicken, garnish with fresh parsley or basil, and serve immediately.

Variants :

• Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and add extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus.
• Seafood Twist: Swap the chicken for shrimp or scallops for a seafood-inspired variation.
• Low-Carb Version: Replace the pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a lighter, keto-friendly meal.
• Cheese Variations: Try Pecorino Romano or Gruyère instead of Parmesan for a different flavor profile.

Tips :

1. Even Cooking: Slice the chicken into even strips to ensure they cook uniformly.
2. Fresh Parmesan: Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a creamy, smooth sauce. Pre-grated cheese may not melt as well.
3. Pasta Water: Save some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency—it helps create a silky texture.
4. Mushroom Flavor Boost: Add a splash of white wine or chicken broth while sautéing the mushrooms for extra depth of flavor.
5. Make Ahead: Prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, then combine with freshly cooked pasta just before serving for the best texture.

Enjoy crafting this delicious and versatile dish, perfect for sharing with family and friends!