If you love the flavors of warm, gooey spinach artichoke dip and crave the comfort of a hearty pasta, this Cheesy Spinach Dip Chicken Pasta is about to become your new weeknight favorite. Imagine forkfuls of tender penne tossed with juicy bites of chicken, all blanketed in a rich, cheesy, spinach-studded sauce that tastes just like your favorite party dip. In just 30 minutes, you can have a bubbling skillet of creamy, dreamy goodness that checks all the boxes: fast, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying. One taste, and you’ll understand why this Cheesy Spinach Dip Chicken Pasta is requested again and again at my table!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Cheesy Spinach Dip Chicken Pasta is how each ingredient builds delectable layers of flavor and luscious, creamy texture. Gather these kitchen staples, and you’re well on your way to pasta bliss!
- Penne pasta: Sturdy and perfect for catching every drop of that cheesy spinach sauce—a classic choice, but any short pasta will work.
- Olive oil: Adds richness and ensures beautifully browned chicken; don’t skip it for that subtle, Mediterranean depth.
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Their mild flavor lets the creamy, cheesy sauce shine, and they stay perfectly tender in the skillet.
- Salt: Season both the chicken and the pasta water generously; balanced seasoning is everything here.
- Black pepper: A dash of freshness and warmth for balance in this rich, cheesy pasta.
- Garlic: The ultimate flavor booster—the aroma as it hits the skillet is irresistible!
- Fresh spinach: Adds color, nutrients, and a touch of earthy flavor, playing off the richness of the sauce.
- Cream cheese: The key to that velvety, luscious sauce—make sure it’s softened for easy melting!
- Sour cream: Contributes tang and extra creaminess, keeping the sauce luscious but lively.
- Mayonnaise: Just a little sneaks in extra silkiness—a game-changer for ultra-smooth sauces.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Salty, nutty, and full of umami, it brings that irresistible depth to the sauce.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melty goodness! This is your golden ticket to that iconic stretchy cheese pull.
- Crushed red pepper flakes: Optional, but a pinch gives a subtle kick that makes the whole dish pop.
- Reserved pasta water: The secret to a sauce that clings lovingly to each piece of penne—it’s liquid gold!
- Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of green for color and a spark of freshness right before serving.
How to Make Cheesy Spinach Dip Chicken Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the penne pasta and cook according to the package directions until just al dente. Don’t forget to scoop out and reserve half a cup of the starchy pasta water before draining—this handy trick ensures your Cheesy Spinach Dip Chicken Pasta sauce will be perfectly silky and never gluey.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium heat. When it’s shimmering, add the bite-sized pieces of chicken, and season generously with salt and black pepper. Let the chicken cook undisturbed so it develops a golden crust, then stir and cook for about 6 to 7 minutes, until fully cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken to a plate and set it aside—you’ll add it back in later to soak up all those creamy flavors.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic and Spinach
In the same skillet (hello, flavor!), reduce the heat slightly and add the minced garlic. Stir constantly for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant and just beginning to color. Add in the roughly chopped fresh spinach and cook until it wilts down—about 2 minutes. This is where your kitchen will start smelling incredibly inviting!
Step 4: Make the Cheesy Sauce
Lower the heat to low and add the cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise to the skillet. Stir patiently until everything melts into a smooth, creamy base. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan, shredded mozzarella, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little zip. Stir until everything is melted, luscious, and sumptuously combined. Taste, and adjust for salt and pepper.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Now for the magic! Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then add the drained penne pasta. Gently toss everything together, letting those nooks and crannies fill with cheesy spinach goodness. If your sauce seems too thick, gradually stir in the reserved pasta water until it’s just the right creamy consistency. Every bite of Cheesy Spinach Dip Chicken Pasta should be smothered and glorious!
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finish your masterpiece with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve the pasta piping hot, ideally straight from the skillet to the table, so everyone can dig into that gooey, melty deliciousness.
How to Serve Cheesy Spinach Dip Chicken Pasta
Garnishes
For a finishing touch, a scattering of fresh parsley adds a pop of green and brightness against the cheesy richness. If you want to go all out, a dusting of extra Parmesan or a light drizzle of good olive oil right before serving takes this Cheesy Spinach Dip Chicken Pasta from delicious to unforgettable.
Side Dishes
Cheesy Spinach Dip Chicken Pasta is ultra-satisfying on its own, but a crisp, lemony salad on the side helps balance its richness beautifully. Warm, crusty bread is also a must for sopping up every bit of that creamy sauce! Roasted broccoli or garlicky green beans would bring color and crunch to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not serve Cheesy Spinach Dip Chicken Pasta in a pretty casserole dish, family-style, with extra cheese melted on top under the broiler for a bubbly browned finish? Or portion it into ramekins for individual servings at a dinner party—it’s cozy and impressively elegant! For game day, spoon it into small bowls and serve with crunchy breadsticks for all the flavors of spinach dip, but heartier.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cool any leftover Cheesy Spinach Dip Chicken Pasta completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 3 days, making it perfect for delicious next-day lunches or a quick reheat on a busy weeknight.
Freezing
To freeze, portion the pasta into airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It’ll keep beautifully for up to 2 months. For best results, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, and remember that dairy-based sauces may separate a little—you can stir in a splash of milk or cream while reheating to bring back that creamy texture.
Reheating
Reheat Cheesy Spinach Dip Chicken Pasta gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk, cream, or reserved pasta water as needed to refresh the sauce and restore its luscious creaminess. Avoid overheating to keep the sauce smooth and the chicken tender.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking raw chicken?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut for busy nights. Shred it and add it in with the cooked pasta to soak up all that delicious cheesy spinach dip flavor.
What other types of pasta work for Cheesy Spinach Dip Chicken Pasta?
Any short, sturdy pasta like rigatoni, fusilli, or shells will work beautifully and hold onto the sauce. You can even use whole wheat or gluten-free varieties if you like!
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen spinach is a great option—just make sure to thaw it completely and then squeeze out as much excess water as possible before adding it to the skillet. This way, your Cheesy Spinach Dip Chicken Pasta won’t end up watery.
Is there a lighter version of this recipe?
Certainly! Use low-fat cream cheese and sour cream, and try part-skim mozzarella to reduce the calorie count. The dish will still be creamy and flavorful, just a touch lighter.
Can I prep Cheesy Spinach Dip Chicken Pasta ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can make the sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Cook the pasta and chicken fresh, then toss everything together and heat until warmed through.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly comforting and joyful about gathering around a skillet of Cheesy Spinach Dip Chicken Pasta with the people you love. It’s cozy, easy, and packed full of flavor—perfect for casual weeknights or when you want to seriously impress with minimal effort. Give it a try, and I guarantee it’ll become a regular request at your house too!
Print
Cheesy Spinach Dip Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Cheesy Spinach Dip Chicken Pasta is a creamy and flavorful pasta dish that combines tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a rich, cheesy sauce. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a special meal with loved ones.
Ingredients
Pasta:
- 12 oz penne pasta
Chicken:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 5 oz fresh spinach (roughly chopped)
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
Garnish:
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil penne pasta until al dente, then drain and reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- Cook the Chicken: Sauté chicken in olive oil until golden and cooked through; set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, sauté garlic, add spinach, then stir in cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, Parmesan, mozzarella, and red pepper flakes until melted.
- Combine and Serve: Add chicken and pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat. Adjust consistency with pasta water, garnish with parsley, and serve.
Notes
- You can substitute rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
- Frozen spinach can be used—just thaw and drain well.
- For extra flavor, add a squeeze of lemon juice or a touch of nutmeg to the sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 31g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 37g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
