Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne with Spinach

Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne with Spinach 

Rich, cozy, and irresistibly creamy—this comforting pasta dish brings together golden garlic-seared chicken, tender penne, and fresh spinach, all wrapped in a silky parmesan cream sauce that coats every bite to perfection. An easy weeknight dinner that tastes like pure indulgence.

Ingredients

• 16 oz penne pasta
• 1½ lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp garlic powder or Italian seasoning
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 tbsp butter
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¾ cup whole milk (or chicken broth for a lighter option)
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups fresh spinach

Optional garnish:
Red pepper flakes, fresh parsley, extra parmesan

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Sear the chicken
   Season chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5–6 minutes, until golden and fully cooked. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Build the garlic cream sauce
   In the same skillet, melt butter. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30–60 seconds. Pour in heavy cream and milk, stirring gently. Let simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Make it creamy
   Stir in parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes smooth, rich, and velvety. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Bring it all together
   Add spinach to the sauce and let it wilt. Return the chicken and cooked penne to the skillet. Toss everything together until evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
6. Serve & enjoy
   Garnish with fresh parsley, extra parmesan, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.