Light, cozy, and ready in 20 minutes!
This 20-minute creamy chicken spinach pasta is the ultimate weeknight solution—silky sauce, tender chicken, and bright spinach tossed with pasta in one pan. No heavy carbs, no complicated steps—just comfort food that won’t slow you down.
Perfect for families, busy professionals, or anyone craving a cozy meal without the hassle. The creamy sauce is made with light cream of mushroom soup, and the spinach adds a fresh, vibrant touch. Serve with garlic bread or a green salad for a complete meal.
This recipe is a Pinterest favorite for its simplicity and flavor. It’s a one-pan wonder that cleans up quickly, making it ideal for quick dinners. The light, creamy sauce pairs beautifully with the tender chicken and pasta, creating a satisfying dish that everyone will love.
The recipe is adaptable—swap the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian option. It’s also freezer-friendly, so you can make a double batch for future meals. Whether you’re cooking for two or feeding a crowd, this dish is a winner.
Why This Recipe Works
⏰ Quick & Easy
Ready in 20 minutes with minimal effort. No need for a separate sauce or complex steps.
💰 Affordable
Uses budget-friendly ingredients like pasta, chicken thighs, and spinach.
👥 Family-Friendly
Kids and adults alike love the creamy, comforting flavors and tender chicken.
🌟 Versatile
Customizable with additions like garlic, Parmesan, or different cheeses.
20-Minute Creamy Chicken Spinach Pasta
Light, cozy, and ready in 20 minutes!
🛒 Ingredients
- - 8 oz uncooked pasta (penne or rotini)
- - 2 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 1 lb), cubed
- - 1 cup heavy cream
- - 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- - 1 cup fresh spinach
- - 1 clove garlic, minced
- - 1/2 tsp salt
- - 1/4 tsp black pepper
- - 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- - 1/4 tsp onion powder
👨🍳 Instructions
Boil Pasta: Cook pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
💡 Use a large pot to ensure pasta has enough space to cook evenly.
Cook Chicken: In a large skillet, cook chicken over medium heat until browned and nearly cooked through. Add garlic, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook 2-3 minutes.
💡 Use a non-stick skillet to prevent sticking.
Add Cream of Mushroom: Stir in cream of mushroom soup and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
💡 Stir constantly to prevent lumps.
Add Spinach: Stir in fresh spinach until wilted. Add cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat evenly.
💡 Adjust seasoning to taste before serving.
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs
Use boneless, skinless thighs for tender results. Substitute with chicken breast or shrimp.
Substitutions: Chicken breast, cooked shrimp, or tofu for a vegetarian option.
Cream of Mushroom Soup
Provides a rich base. Use cream of mushroom or cream of celery for a lighter flavor.
Substitutions: Cream of mushroom, cream of celery, or a dairy-free alternative.
Heavy Cream
Adds silkiness to the sauce. Substitute with half-and-half or coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
Substitutions: Half-and-half, coconut milk, or almond milk for a lighter version.
Fresh Spinach
Adds freshness and nutrients. Substitute with frozen spinach (thawed and drained) or kale.
Substitutions: Frozen spinach, kale, or Swiss chard.
Pro Tips for Perfect Creamy Chicken Spinach Pasta
🍴 One-Pan Wonders
Use a large skillet to avoid overcrowding the chicken. This ensures even cooking and prevents steaming.
🔥 Simmering the Sauce
Simmer the sauce for 2-3 minutes to thicken it. Avoid boiling vigorously, which can break down the cream.
🥄 Tossing Techniques
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss over low heat to coat evenly with the sauce.
🧀 Cheese Additions
Sprinkle Parmesan or shredded cheddar over the pasta for extra richness and texture.
Variations & Customizations
Vegetarian Option
Substitute chicken with tofu or chickpeas. Use vegetable broth and a dairy-free cream of mushroom soup.
Spicy Kick
Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce for a spicy version.
Cheesy Twist
Mix in shredded cheddar or Gouda into the sauce for a heartier flavor.
Herb-Infused
Add fresh parsley, thyme, or basil to the sauce for a burst of herbal flavor.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Garlic bread or crusty baguette for dipping in the creamy sauce
- Steamed broccoli or green beans for a fresh, crunchy contrast
- Simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness
🍷 Drink Pairings:
Pair with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay. For non-alcoholic options, try sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon.
Make-Ahead Instructions & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
Cook the chicken and sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Reheat with the pasta just before serving.
Refrigerator Storage
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Add a splash of cream when reheating to restore the sauce’s consistency.
Freezer Storage
Freeze the sauce and cooked chicken separately for up to 3 months. Reheat the pasta separately and combine just before serving.
Reheating Instructions
Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling to prevent the sauce from breaking.
Troubleshooting & Common Questions
Q: My sauce is too thin. What should I do?
A: Simmer the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes to reduce and thicken it. Avoid boiling vigorously.
Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
A: Yes! Use pre-cooked shredded chicken to save time. Simply add it to the skillet with the sauce and spinach.
Q: How do I prevent the pasta from sticking?
A: Toss the cooked pasta with a little olive oil before adding it to the skillet. This creates a barrier to prevent sticking.
Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and ensure the cream of mushroom soup is gluten-free. Check labels for hidden gluten sources.
Final Thoughts
This 20-minute creamy chicken spinach pasta is a game-changer for busy weeknights. It’s light, cozy, and packed with flavor—perfect for families or solo dinners. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and fresh spinach create a satisfying meal that’s easy to customize and even easier to make.
Try serving it with garlic bread and a green salad for a complete meal. The recipe’s versatility makes it a staple in your kitchen—adjust the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Give it a try and enjoy the comfort of homemade pasta in minutes!
