There is something irresistibly comforting about creamy, cheesy pasta dishes, and this Spinach & Artichoke Dip Pasta with Chicken Recipe takes that cozy feeling to a whole new level. Combining tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and tangy artichokes in a luscious, rich sauce, this dish is like your favorite spinach and artichoke dip transformed into a satisfying pasta dinner. It delivers layers of flavor and texture that make every bite feel like a warm hug, perfect for weeknights or when you want to impress friends with a simple yet impressive homemade meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this recipe, the ingredients are refreshingly simple, yet each plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of taste, creaminess, and color. From fresh veggies to savory cheeses, every component contributes something special to this hearty pasta.
- 12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta: Choose a sturdy pasta to hold onto the rich, creamy sauce beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity richness and helps sauté the garlic perfectly.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded or diced: Provides lean protein and a satisfying bite.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic depth and a gentle warmth.
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped: Brings fresh color and a mild earthiness that complements the cheese.
- 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped: Offers a tangy, slightly nutty flavor and tender texture.
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened: The creamy base that makes the sauce luxuriously smooth.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds a subtle tang and lightens the richness slightly for balance.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a salty, nutty complexity that enhances every bite.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully to create a gooey, irresistible topping.
- 1 cup milk or half-and-half: Helps thin the sauce just enough to coat the pasta perfectly.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasoning to bring all flavors into harmony.
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a gentle kick if you like a little heat.
How to Make Spinach & Artichoke Dip Pasta with Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by boiling your pasta according to the package instructions until perfectly al dente. Nothing ruins this dish quite like overcooked mush! Drain the pasta and set it aside, ready to soak up that creamy, flavorful sauce later.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then toss in the minced garlic. Sauté for about one minute until fragrant—this quick step releases the garlic’s aromatic oils that will flavor the entire dish.
Step 3: Cook the Spinach and Artichokes
Add the chopped spinach and artichokes to your skillet. Stir and cook for three to four minutes until the spinach has wilted and the artichokes are warmed through, creating a fresh and vibrant base for your sauce.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
Now for the magic: stir in the cream cheese, sour cream, milk, and Parmesan cheese. Keep cooking and stirring until the sauce becomes irresistibly creamy and smooth. Don’t forget to season with salt, black pepper, and if you like, a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat that awakens the flavors.
Step 5: Combine Chicken and Pasta
Mix the cooked, shredded chicken and your drained pasta into the skillet. Stir gently but thoroughly to ensure every piece is lovingly coated in that rich sauce, marrying the savory chicken with the cheesy spinach and artichokes.
Step 6: Melt the Mozzarella
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top, then cover the skillet. Let it cook on low heat for three to four minutes until the cheese melts into a gooey, golden topping that invites you to dive in immediately.
Step 7: Serve It Up
Once the mozzarella is deliciously melted, your Spinach & Artichoke Dip Pasta with Chicken Recipe is ready to enjoy. Serve hot, perhaps with a final flourish of extra Parmesan or fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
How to Serve Spinach & Artichoke Dip Pasta with Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a little something extra on top really elevates this dish. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley for a bright herbal note or an extra dusting of Parmesan for added salty richness. A squeeze of lemon juice on the side can also brighten the creamy depth wonderfully.
Side Dishes
This hearty pasta is wonderful on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread can complete the meal beautifully. The light freshness of a simple vinaigrette salad balances the creamy pasta perfectly, while warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress? Serve the pasta in individual shallow bowls, topped with a sprinkle of mozzarella and a sprig of fresh herbs. For a bit of fun, try baking it briefly like a casserole to create a bubbly, golden crust—a playful twist on the original but just as satisfying.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (which might be rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pasta will stay good for up to three days, allowing you to enjoy this comforting dish all over again with minimal effort.
Freezing
This Spinach & Artichoke Dip Pasta with Chicken Recipe freezes moderately well. Transfer cooled leftovers into a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to two months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the pasta gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of milk or water will help the sauce return to its creamy consistency, avoiding dryness. Beware of overheating, which can cause the sauce to separate.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain the frozen spinach well to avoid excess moisture in the sauce. The flavor will still be fantastic, and it’s a great shortcut when fresh isn’t available.
What type of chicken works best for this recipe?
Cooked chicken breasts shredded or diced work beautifully here, but you can also use rotisserie chicken for convenience. The key is to have tender, cooked chicken that blends well with the creamy sauce.
Is there a vegetarian alternative for this recipe?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and consider adding hearty mushrooms or extra artichokes for a satisfying, meat-free version. The creamy sauce and veggies will shine just as brightly.
Can I use a different cheese in this dish?
Parmesan and mozzarella are classic choices, but you can experiment with others like Gruyère or fontina for slightly different flavors and textures. Just be mindful of meltability and saltiness.
How spicy is the dish with red pepper flakes?
Just a pinch adds a gentle warmth without overpowering the creamy flavors. You can always adjust or leave them out completely based on your spice preference.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about this Spinach & Artichoke Dip Pasta with Chicken Recipe that warms the heart and satisfies the soul. With its creamy, cheesy sauce, tender chicken, and fresh greens, it’s a joy to cook and an even greater pleasure to eat. I hope you give it a try soon and discover just how easy it is to create a dish that feels so indulgent yet comes together in under 30 minutes. Happy cooking!
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Spinach & Artichoke Dip Pasta with Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A creamy and delicious Spinach & Artichoke Dip Pasta with tender chicken, combining classic dip flavors with hearty penne pasta for a comforting and easy-to-make meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Pasta and Protein
- 12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded or diced
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
Dairy and Sauces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup milk or half-and-half
Seasoning
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to keep warm.
- Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned, which will infuse the oil and base the flavor of the sauce.
- Cook Spinach and Artichokes: Add the chopped spinach and drained artichoke hearts to the skillet. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spinach is wilted and the artichokes are warmed through.
- Make Creamy Sauce: Stir in the softened cream cheese, sour cream, milk (or half-and-half), and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to cook and stir until the cheeses melt and the mixture becomes creamy and smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if using to add subtle heat.
- Add Chicken and Pasta: Incorporate the cooked chicken and the drained pasta into the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to coat everything evenly in the creamy mixture.
- Melt Mozzarella Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the pasta mixture in the skillet. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook over low heat for 3 to 4 minutes until the cheese melts completely, creating a luscious cheesy topping.
- Serve: Serve the pasta hot, optionally garnished with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh parsley for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- For best results, use freshly cooked chicken or leftover rotisserie chicken.
- You can substitute half-and-half with whole milk for a lighter sauce.
- If you prefer a spicy kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes to taste.
- This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad or garlic bread.
- To make it vegetarian, omit the chicken and add extra artichokes or mushrooms instead.
