One-Pot Cheesy Spinach Chicken Pasta Recipe – This cheesy chicken pasta cooked in one pot is the perfect weeknight dinner! Chicken bites are browned in the pan with onion and fresh garlic, then simmered in a rich, creamy broth. Add pasta and let cook until al dente, finishing off the chicken pasta with fresh spinach and cheddar and you get a delicious, nourishing meal everyone will love. This one-pot chicken pasta recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish. Enjoy!
Table of Contents
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Ingredients list for the cheesy chicken pasta recipe
- 1 lb boneless and skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz uncooked pasta (such as penne, shells, rigatoni, etc.)
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups half-and-half
- 2 cups spinach
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne, optional
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Photo credit: © Eatwell101.com
One-pot cheesy chicken pasta recipe
Not only this cheesy spinach chicken pasta cuts back on prep and cook time, but the flavors are out of this world! We’re adding chicken broth and half-and-half to the pan before cooking the pasta, ensuring this chicken pasta meal comes together in a cinch. you’ll love the combination of chicken, spinach, and cheddar. We add some cayenne pepper to boost heat and flavor, but it’s optional.
How to make the one-pot chicken pasta?
Start by seasoning the chicken pieces with garlic powder, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Brown the chicken pieces in a hot pan, then add onion and garlic. Stir in chicken broth and half-and-half (and cayenne if using). Add the uncooked pasta, and allow to simmer until pasta is cooked al dente. Stir in spinach and cheddar. Adjust seasoning and serve. Easy! Check below the detailed instruction on how to make this chicken pasta recipe.
Photo credit: © Eatwell101.com
Photo credit: © Eatwell101.com
Photo credit: © Eatwell101.com
Photo credit: © Eatwell101.com
Photo credit: © Eatwell101.com
Photo credit: © Eatwell101.com
Photo credit: © Eatwell101.com
Photo credit: © Eatwell101.com
Directions
1. To make the cheesy chicken pasta with spinach: Season chicken pieces with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large, deep pan or pot. Add the diced chicken breasts to the pan and cook for about 5 minutes until the chicken is cooked and begins to brown lightly on the edges.
2. Add the onions and garlic and cook for another 2 minutes until the onions soften slightly. Make sure not to burn the garlic.
3. Add the pasta, chicken broth, half-and-half, and cayenne (if used), and bring to a boil. Turn the heat down to low, stir quickly, cover the pan, and simmer the chicken pasta for 15 minutes, occasionally stirring, until the pasta cooks through. Add more liquid if necessary.
4. Uncover the pan and stir in the fresh spinach. Continue cooking for a couple more minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese. Adjust seasoning if needed. Serve the cheesy chicken pasta immediately. Enjoy! ❤️
Photo credit: © Eatwell101.com
Tips for the cheesy spinach chicken pasta recipe
- To make this chicken pasta recipe completely gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta.
- Fresh spinach is best. If you have time, you can sauté the fresh spinach so it renders some of its water before adding it to the chicken pasta. If using frozen spinach, make sure to squeeze out any moisture.
- Half-and-half works great but if you prefer something thicker, use heavy whipping cream instead.
- Grate your cheddar for the best flavor. Pre-shredded cheese tends to be lightly coated with starch to prevent caking in the packets.
Can we use chicken thighs for the chicken pasta recipe?
You can use chicken thighs if you would like instead of chicken breast. Chicken thighs are more flavorful but have more fat content. Considering the half-and-half and the cheese, we prefer staying with the leaner option to balance the dish.
How to keep chicken pasta leftovers
You can keep the cheesy chicken pasta leftovers for up to 2 days in an airtight container in your refrigerator. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave. You might want to add a few drops of water to loosen the sauce.
More chicken pasta recipes
- 21 Best Chicken Pasta Recipes for Dinner
- Creamy Chicken Soup with Pasta and Spinach
- Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad with Avocado, Tomato, and Basil
- 15-Minute Chicken Stir Fry Noodles
- Instant Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Photo credit: © Eatwell101.com
