Name: Creamy Chicken, Mushroom, and Spinach Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb Farfalle bow-tie pasta; 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 2 lbs Chicken Tenders; Salt and ground black pepper; 24 oz mushrooms; 1 medium onion; 3 tbsp garlic; 3 cups chicken broth; 4 tsp dijon mustard; ¼ cup heavy cream; 2 cups spinach; 2 tbsp parmesan cheese; 1 tsp flat leaf Italian parsley

Indulge in the delightful combination of creamy textures and savory flavors with this creamy chicken, mushroom, and spinach pasta. It's a wholesome meal that brings together tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and fresh spinach in a rich, velvety sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner night or a family gathering.

Photos of Creamy Chicken, Mushroom, and Spinach Pasta Recipe

Most of the ingredients in this recipe are easily found in any well-stocked pantry or supermarket. However, be sure to locate dijon mustard for a subtle tang, heavy cream for the creamy texture, and flat leaf Italian parsley for a fresh, herbaceous garnish. These ingredients might not always be on hand but are essential for the distinct flavors of this dish.

Ingredients for Creamy Chicken, Mushroom, and Spinach Pasta

Farfalle bow-tie pasta: Adds texture and holds the sauce well.

Extra virgin olive oil: Provides a rich, fruity base for sautéing.

Chicken tenders: Offers tender, juicy protein to the dish.

Salt: Enhances overall flavor.

Ground black pepper: Adds a hint of spice.

Mushrooms: Contributes earthy, umami flavors.

Onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.

Garlic: Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth.

Chicken broth: Forms the savory base of the sauce.

Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle tanginess.

Heavy cream: Creates a rich, luxurious texture.

Spinach: Adds freshness and color.

Parmesan cheese: Provides a salty, nutty finish.

Flat leaf Italian parsley: Garnishes with fresh, herbaceous notes.

One reader, Beverly Ogrady says:

This creamy chicken, mushroom, and spinach pasta is a delightful dish! The flavors blend perfectly, and the sauce is rich and comforting. It's easy to make and feels like a gourmet meal. Highly recommend for a cozy dinner!

Beverly Ogrady

Techniques Required for Making This Creamy Pasta Recipe

How to cook pasta: Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook bow-tie pasta at a boil, stirring occasionally, for 12 minutes until tender yet firm to the bite. Drain and transfer to a serving bowl or a deep platter.

How to cook chicken tenders: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat for 1 to 2 minutes. Season tenders with salt and pepper, place in the hot oil, and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until lightly brown on one side. Turn and cook on the other side for an additional 3 to 4 minutes until light brown. Transfer chicken to a plate.

How to cook mushrooms and onions: Add mushrooms and onion to the hot skillet and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until onion is lightly browned. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.

How to make sauce: Stir in chicken broth and mustard, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 5 minutes. Return chicken tenders to skillet and submerge them in the broth mixture. Cook for 5 minutes until chicken is no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear. Remove chicken and place on top of the cooked pasta. Continue to cook the sauce for 3 minutes until slightly thickened. Turn off heat and stir in cream. Add spinach and stir for 1 minute until slightly wilted. Pour sauce over chicken and pasta. Sprinkle with parmesan cheese and garnish with parsley.

How To Make Creamy Chicken, Mushroom, and Spinach Pasta

This chicken pasta recipe makes a creamy and cheesy dish with parmesan cheese and heavy cream. Spinach and mushroom are also added for a healthier touch.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 30 minutes

Total: 45 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1lbFarfalle bow-tie pasta
3tbspextra virgin olive oil
2lbschicken tenders,patted dry
salt and ground black pepper,to taste
24ozmushrooms,fresh, sliced
1medium onion,halved and thinly sliced
3tbspgarlic,fresh minced
3cupschicken broth
4tspdijon mustard
¼cupheavy cream
2cupsspinach,fresh, roughly chopped
2tbspparmesan cheese,coarsely grated, or to taste
1tspflat leaf Italian parsley,chopped, or to taste

Instructions

Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook bow-tie pasta at a boil, stirring occasionally, for 12 minutes until tender yet firm to the bite. Drain and transfer to a serving bowl or a deep platter.
Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat for 1 to 2 minutes. Season tenders with salt and pepper, place in the hot oil, and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until lightly brown on one side. Turn and cook on the other side for an addtional 3 to 4 minutes until light brown. Transfer chicken to a plate.
Add mushrooms and onion to the hot skillet and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until onion is lightly browned. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute. Stir in chicken broth and mustard, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 5 minutes.
Return chicken tenders to skillet and submerge them in the broth mixture. Cook for 5 minutes until chicken is no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center should read at least 165 degrees F. Remove chicken and place on top of the cooked pasta.
Continue to cook the sauce for 3 minutes until slightly thickened. Turn off heat and stir in cream. Add spinach stir for 1 minute until slightly wilted. Pour sauce over chicken and pasta. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and garnish with parsley.
Serve warm and enjoy.

Nutrition

Calories: 655.63kcal
Fat: 28.68g
Saturated Fat: 7.01g
Trans Fat: 0.00g
Monounsaturated Fat: 12.70g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 5.14g
Carbohydrates: 69.09g
Fiber: 4.77g
Sugar: 5.94g
Protein: 30.76g
Cholesterol: 60.96mg
Sodium: 902.56mg
Calcium: 94.36mg
Potassium: 836.08mg
Iron: 3.10mg
Vitamin A: 72.10µg
Vitamin C: 7.11mg

Technique Tip for Perfecting Creamy Chicken, Mushroom, and Spinach Pasta

To achieve perfectly cooked chicken tenders, make sure the skillet is properly preheated before adding the olive oil. This ensures a nice sear and prevents the chicken from sticking to the pan. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the skillet, as this can cause the chicken to steam rather than brown, affecting both texture and flavor.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Creamy Chicken, Mushroom, and Spinach Pasta

Pre-cook the chicken: Cook the chicken tenders ahead of time and store them in the fridge. This will save you time when preparing the dish.

Use pre-sliced mushrooms: Buy pre-sliced mushrooms to cut down on prep time.

Minced garlic: Use store-bought minced garlic instead of peeling and chopping fresh garlic.

Pre-washed spinach: Opt for pre-washed spinach to eliminate the need for washing and drying.

Instant-read thermometer: Keep an instant-read thermometer handy to quickly check the chicken's doneness.

One-pot cooking: Use a large skillet to cook everything, reducing the number of dishes to clean.

Substitute Ingredients For Creamy Chicken, Mushroom, and Spinach Pasta Recipe

farfalle bow-tie pasta - Substitute with penne pasta: Penne has a similar texture and will hold the sauce well.
extra virgin olive oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil is a neutral oil that can be used for cooking at high temperatures.
chicken tenders - Substitute with boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Thighs are juicier and more flavorful.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds a depth of flavor and umami.
ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a milder flavor and won't alter the color of the dish.
mushrooms - Substitute with zucchini: Zucchini has a similar texture and absorbs flavors well.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder and sweeter flavor.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used if fresh garlic is not available.
chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth is a good alternative for a lighter flavor.
dijon mustard - Substitute with whole grain mustard: Whole grain mustard has a similar tangy flavor and adds texture.
heavy cream - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk provides a creamy texture and a slight sweetness.
spinach - Substitute with kale: Kale is a hearty green that holds up well in cooking.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with pecorino romano: Pecorino Romano has a similar salty and nutty flavor.
flat leaf italian parsley - Substitute with cilantro: Cilantro adds a fresh and slightly citrusy flavor.

Best Way to Present This Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present a modest portion of farfalle bow-tie pasta on each plate, ensuring the pasta is neatly twirled or arranged to create a visually appealing base.
Highlight the protein: Slice the chicken tenders into elegant, bite-sized pieces and fan them out over the pasta, showcasing the perfectly cooked, juicy chicken.
Showcase the vegetables: Arrange the sautéed mushrooms and onions artfully around the chicken and pasta, ensuring they are evenly distributed and add a pop of color and texture.
Drizzle the sauce: Gently pour the creamy chicken broth and mustard sauce over the chicken and pasta, allowing it to pool slightly at the base for a luxurious finish.
Add fresh greens: Lightly wilted spinach should be placed strategically around the dish, adding a vibrant green contrast and a touch of freshness.
Garnish with precision: Sprinkle a fine dusting of parmesan cheese over the top, followed by a delicate touch of finely chopped flat leaf Italian parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
Final touches: Ensure the plate is clean and free of any drips or smudges. Use a microplane to add a final flourish of parmesan if desired, and serve immediately to maintain the dish's warmth and integrity.

Essential Tools for Making Creamy Chicken, Mushroom, and Spinach Pasta

Large pot: Used to boil the pasta until it is tender yet firm to the bite.
Skillet: Essential for cooking the chicken tenders, mushrooms, onions, and creating the sauce.
Tongs: Handy for turning the chicken tenders and ensuring they cook evenly on both sides.
Plate: Used to temporarily hold the cooked chicken tenders before they are added back to the skillet.
Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring the ingredients in the skillet and ensuring they cook evenly.
Instant-read thermometer: Ensures the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of at least 165 degrees F.
Serving bowl: Used to hold the cooked pasta before combining it with the sauce and chicken.
Measuring spoons: Necessary for accurately measuring the olive oil, garlic, Dijon mustard, and other ingredients.
Measuring cups: Used to measure the chicken broth, heavy cream, and spinach.
Knife: Essential for chopping the onion and slicing the mushrooms.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping the vegetables and preparing the chicken.
Colander: Used to drain the cooked pasta before transferring it to the serving bowl.
Grater: Handy for grating the Parmesan cheese to sprinkle over the finished dish.
Spatula: Useful for stirring the sauce and incorporating the cream and spinach.

How to Store and Freeze Leftover Creamy Chicken Pasta

Allow the creamy chicken, mushroom, and spinach pasta to cool completely before storing or freezing.
For storing in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled pasta to an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
If you plan to freeze the pasta, follow these steps:
- Divide the cooled pasta into individual serving portions or freeze it as a whole batch, depending on your preference.
- Place the pasta in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the containers or bags with the date and contents for easy identification.
- When stored properly in the freezer, the creamy chicken, mushroom, and spinach pasta will maintain its quality for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat the refrigerated pasta, simply microwave individual portions until heated through, or warm the entire batch in a covered skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature.
For frozen pasta, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Alternatively, you can reheat the frozen pasta directly in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to help loosen the sauce and prevent it from drying out.
Keep in mind that the texture of the pasta and vegetables may change slightly after freezing and reheating, but the flavors will still be delicious.

How to Reheat Leftover Creamy Chicken Pasta

Reheat the pasta in the microwave: place the desired portion of leftover creamy chicken, mushroom, and spinach pasta in a microwave-safe dish. add a splash of chicken broth or water to help maintain the sauce's consistency. cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap (leaving a small vent for steam to escape). microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the pasta is heated through.
Reheat the pasta on the stovetop: transfer the leftover creamy chicken, mushroom, and spinach pasta to a saucepan. add a small amount of chicken broth or water to the pan to prevent the sauce from drying out. heat the pasta over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until it is warmed through. if the sauce appears too thick, add more broth or water as needed to achieve the desired consistency.
Reheat the pasta in the oven: preheat the oven to 350°f (175°c). place the leftover creamy chicken, mushroom, and spinach pasta in an oven-safe dish. cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent the pasta from drying out. bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is heated through. remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the top to crisp up slightly.
Reheat individual portions in the air fryer: place a single serving of leftover creamy chicken, mushroom, and spinach pasta in the air fryer basket. air fry at 350°f (175°c) for 3-5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the pasta is heated through and the edges are slightly crispy.
Cold pasta salad: if you prefer a cold dish, consider transforming your leftover creamy chicken, mushroom, and spinach pasta into a refreshing pasta salad. simply chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces and toss the cold pasta with additional fresh spinach, halved cherry tomatoes, and a drizzle of your favorite salad dressing. this method works best if the leftover pasta has been stored in the refrigerator overnight, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Random Fact About Creamy Chicken, Mushroom, and Spinach Pasta

A random fact about this recipe is that the combination of chicken, mushrooms, and spinach not only provides a rich and creamy flavor but also offers a balanced nutritional profile. Chicken is a great source of lean protein, mushrooms add a boost of antioxidants, and spinach is packed with vitamins and minerals.

Is Making This Creamy Pasta Dish at Home Cost-Effective?

This creamy chicken, mushroom, and spinach pasta recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it a great choice for a family meal. The cost-effectiveness of this dish is quite reasonable, considering the use of chicken tenders, mushrooms, and spinach. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20-$25 USD. Given the quality and quantity of ingredients, the overall verdict for this recipe is a solid 8 out of 10.

Is This Creamy Pasta Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?

The creamy chicken, mushroom, and spinach pasta recipe is a delicious and comforting dish, but it may not be the healthiest option due to a few ingredients. Here's a breakdown of the recipe's nutritional aspects:

The recipe includes a significant amount of heavy cream, which is high in saturated fat and calories. While some fat is essential for a balanced diet, excessive consumption of saturated fat can lead to health issues like heart disease and obesity.
The use of chicken tenders is a good source of lean protein, but the cooking method involves frying them in olive oil, which adds extra fat and calories to the dish.
Mushrooms and spinach are nutrient-dense vegetables that provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals. However, the amount of spinach used in the recipe is relatively small compared to the other ingredients.
The recipe calls for a considerable amount of pasta, which is high in carbohydrates. While carbs are an important energy source, consuming too many can lead to weight gain and blood sugar imbalances, especially for those with diabetes or insulin resistance.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Replace the heavy cream with a lower-fat alternative, such as evaporated skim milk or Greek yogurt, to reduce the saturated fat and calorie content
Instead of frying the chicken tenders in oil, try grilling, baking, or poaching them to minimize the added fat
Increase the amount of spinach and mushrooms in the recipe to boost the fiber and nutrient content while reducing the overall calorie density
Opt for whole grain pasta or zucchini noodles to increase the fiber content and lower the glycemic index of the dish
Use a smaller portion of pasta and serve the dish with a side salad or extra vegetables to create a more balanced meal

Editor's Thoughts on This Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Recipe

This creamy chicken, mushroom, and spinach pasta recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The tender chicken pairs beautifully with the earthy mushrooms and fresh spinach, while the Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang. The heavy cream and Parmesan cheese create a rich, velvety sauce that coats the farfalle pasta perfectly. The use of fresh garlic and Italian parsley enhances the overall aroma and taste. It's a well-balanced dish that's both comforting and elegant, making it suitable for a family dinner or a special occasion.

Enhance Your Creamy Chicken, Mushroom, and Spinach Pasta Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Imagine the delightful crunch of Brussels sprouts caramelized to perfection, drizzled with a tangy balsamic glaze. This side dish adds a burst of flavor and texture, complementing the creamy richness of the chicken and pasta ensemble.

Garlic Bread with Herb Butter: Picture warm, crusty bread slathered with a decadent herb butter infused with garlic. This classic side dish is perfect for soaking up every last drop of the luscious sauce from your pasta dish.

Caprese Salad with Heirloom Tomatoes: Envision a vibrant salad featuring juicy heirloom tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil. Drizzled with a touch of olive oil and balsamic vinegar, this refreshing side dish adds a burst of color and freshness to your meal.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: Imagine a velvety soup made with ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil, offering a comforting and flavorful start to your meal. The creamy texture and rich taste perfectly complement the chicken and pasta.

Lemon Garlic Asparagus: Visualize tender asparagus spears lightly sautéed with garlic and a hint of lemon. This side dish brings a zesty and fresh element to your plate, balancing the creamy and savory notes of the main course.

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Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Creamy Chicken, Mushroom, and Spinach Pasta

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms. The earthy mushrooms are filled with a creamy blend of cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs, creating a perfect bite-sized treat. The garlic and parsley add a burst of flavor, making them irresistible. Serve these warm to enjoy the gooey, melted cheese and the crispy breadcrumb topping.

Bruschetta: Transport your guests to Italy with this classic bruschetta. Fresh tomatoes, basil, and garlic are combined with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a splash of balsamic vinegar. This mixture is then spooned onto toasted baguette slices, creating a delightful contrast between the crunchy bread and the juicy tomato topping. Garnish with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for an extra touch of indulgence.

Desserts:

Tiramisu: Indulge in a classic Italian treat that layers espresso-soaked ladyfingers with a rich mascarpone cream. The cocoa powder dusting on top adds a touch of bitterness that perfectly balances the sweetness. This dessert is best enjoyed after a hearty meal, offering a delightful contrast with its creamy texture and bold flavors. Serve chilled and let the flavors meld together for an unforgettable experience.

Lemon Meringue Pie: Brighten up your meal with a zesty Lemon Meringue Pie. The tangy lemon curd filling is complemented by a fluffy meringue topping that is lightly browned to perfection. The buttery crust adds a satisfying crunch, making each bite a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. This dessert is a refreshing end to any meal, leaving your palate cleansed and satisfied.

Why trust this Creamy Chicken, Mushroom, and Spinach Pasta Recipe:

This recipe combines the rich flavors of chicken, mushrooms, and spinach with a creamy sauce that perfectly coats the farfalle pasta. The use of extra virgin olive oil and parmesan cheese adds a touch of authenticity and depth. With easy-to-follow steps and common ingredients, this dish is both accessible and impressive. Trust this recipe for a satisfying meal that balances taste and nutrition.

Have you tried this Creamy Chicken, Mushroom, and Spinach Pasta Recipe? Share your experience and any tweaks you made in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can easily make this dish vegetarian by substituting the chicken tenders with a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh. Just follow the same cooking instructions for the tofu or tempeh as you would for the chicken.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! You can use any pasta you prefer or have on hand. Penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti would work well with this creamy sauce.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even milk. Just keep in mind that the sauce might be a bit less creamy. For a dairy-free option, coconut milk or a non-dairy cream would work too.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should be good for up to 3 days. When reheating, you might need to add a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen up the sauce.

Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes. Just sauté them along with the mushrooms and onions to ensure they cook through.