Creamy Spinach Artichoke Chicken Pasta One Pot Delight

Welcome to the world of one-pot meals! Today, I’m excited to share my creamy spinach artichoke chicken pasta recipe. This dish is simple, quick, and bursting with flavor. You’ll love how everything comes together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Perfect for busy weeknights, it combines tender chicken with creamy sauce for a comforting feast. Ready to impress your taste buds? Let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
– 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
– 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and quartered
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Measurements and Substitution Options
You can swap penne pasta for any pasta shape you like. Bowtie or rotini work well. If you don’t have chicken breasts, try diced thighs for more flavor. Cream cheese can be replaced with a dairy-free option if needed. For a lighter touch, use Greek yogurt. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.
Equipment Needed
To make this dish, you’ll need:
– A large pot or Dutch oven
– A cutting board
– A sharp knife
– Measuring cups and spoons
– A wooden spoon for stirring
– Serving bowls for presentation
These tools will help you create the creamy spinach artichoke chicken pasta with ease. Having everything ready makes cooking fun and smooth.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
First, I heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot. I add one pound of diced chicken breasts. To season, I sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder over the chicken. I cook it for about 5 to 7 minutes. I want the chicken to be browned and cooked through. This step adds great flavor to the dish and sets a savory base.
Cooking the Pasta
Next, I pour in one cup of chicken broth. I scrape any brown bits from the bottom of the pot. This adds even more flavor. I bring the broth to a simmer. Then, I stir in 12 ounces of penne pasta. I make sure the pasta is well submerged. After covering the pot, I cook it for about 10 minutes. I stir halfway through to prevent sticking. The pasta should absorb most of the liquid.
Combining Ingredients for Creamy Sauce
Once the pasta is cooked, I lower the heat. I add one cup of softened cream cheese and one cup of grated parmesan cheese. Next, I toss in the two cups of chopped spinach and one can of quartered artichoke hearts. I stir gently for about 2 to 3 minutes. This helps the cream cheese melt and form a creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, I add more broth. Finally, I taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. After removing it from the heat, I let it sit for a couple of minutes before serving.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips for Perfect Pasta
To cook perfect pasta, use a large pot. Fill it with water and add salt. The water should taste like the sea. Bring the water to a boil before adding the penne pasta. Stir the pasta to prevent sticking. Cook it for about 10 minutes. Taste a piece. It should be firm but not hard. This is called al dente. Drain it well before adding to the dish.
How to Achieve a Creamy Sauce
To make a creamy sauce, start with softened cream cheese. Add the cream cheese to the pot after cooking the pasta. Stir it in while the heat is low. This helps it melt nicely. You can also add grated parmesan cheese for extra creaminess. If the sauce is too thick, add more chicken broth. This will help loosen it up. Stir gently until everything is combined.
Ingredient Customization for Personal Taste
Feel free to customize your dish! If you love garlic, add more garlic powder. You can swap the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a change. If you want more veggies, toss in bell peppers or mushrooms. For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes. You can also use different pasta shapes, like rotini or fettuccine. The choice is yours, so make it your own!
Variations
Vegetarian Option for Spinach Artichoke Pasta
You can easily make a vegetarian version of this dish. Skip the chicken and add more veggies. Try mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini. These will add texture and flavor. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. This keeps the dish rich and creamy while staying meat-free.
Adding Extra Protein or Veggies
Want to boost the protein? You can add beans or chickpeas. They mix well with the sauce. You can also add cooked shrimp or diced tofu for more protein. For veggies, consider adding broccoli or peas. Both add color and nutrients. Just toss them in when you add the spinach and artichokes.
Gluten-Free Adaptation
If you need a gluten-free option, swap the penne for gluten-free pasta. There are many brands available, and they cook similarly. Make sure to check the cooking time on the package. You can also use spiralized veggies, like zucchini noodles, for a fresh twist. Enjoy your creamy spinach artichoke chicken pasta without gluten!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
After enjoying your creamy spinach artichoke chicken pasta, let it cool down. Once cool, place it in an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh. Store the container in the fridge. It will last up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a great option.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, you can use the microwave or the stovetop. If using the microwave, place a portion in a bowl. Add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist. Heat in short bursts, stirring often. If using the stovetop, put it in a pan over low heat. Stir gently until it warms through. This keeps the pasta creamy without drying it out.
Freezing Tips for Long-Term Storage
To freeze, use a freezer-safe container. Portion out the pasta into smaller amounts for easy meals later. Make sure to leave some space at the top for expansion. When you want to eat it, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat as described above. This way, you enjoy the creamy goodness even after weeks!
FAQs
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
You can use sour cream or Greek yogurt in place of cream cheese. Both will give your dish a creamy texture. If you want a dairy-free option, try cashew cream or a non-dairy cream cheese alternative. These substitutes work well and keep the flavor rich.
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach! Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the pot. Frozen spinach has a softer texture, so it mixes in nicely. This option saves time and still adds great flavor.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. You can cut a piece in half to check that it is no longer pink inside. If you don’t have a thermometer, just make sure the juices run clear.
What pasta alternatives can I use for this recipe?
You can use any pasta shape you like! Bowtie, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta work great. If you’re gluten-free, try rice pasta or quinoa pasta. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.
This guide covers all you need to make a creamy spinach artichoke pasta. You learned about the right ingredients, measurements, and tools to get started. Step-by-step, you followed cooking chicken, pasta, and sauce. Tips for perfect flavor and texture were shared, along with tasty variations. Storage advice ensures your dish stays fresh. Remember, cooking is about having fun and making it your own. Enjoy the journey and share your delicious results!
