“`html
If you have ever dreamed of combining the irresistible creaminess of your favorite spinach and artichoke dip with a hearty pasta and tender chicken, you are in for a treat. This Spinach & Artichoke Dip Pasta with Chicken Recipe takes all those comforting flavors and textures you love, swirling them together into a luscious, cheesy sauce that hugs every piece of perfectly cooked penne. It’s a wonderfully satisfying dish that’s surprisingly simple to pull together, making it an absolute winner for weeknight dinners or whenever you crave something indulgently delicious yet wholesome.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this dish plays a vital role in balancing flavors, adding texture, and creating that silken sauce that elevates this pasta from ordinary to unforgettable. You’ll find that these straightforward ingredients come together effortlessly to delight your taste buds.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and sliced: Adds tender protein that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
- 12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta: The tube shapes hold onto the rich sauce perfectly, enhancing every bite.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing garlic and artichokes, imparting a subtle fruity depth.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Offers a fragrant, savory backbone to the sauce.
- 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped: Brings that slightly tangy and tender bite essential for classic dip flavor.
- 4 cups baby spinach: Adds vibrant color, freshness, and a mild earthiness.
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened: The silky base that creates an irresistibly creamy texture.
- ½ cup sour cream: Adds tangy richness to balance the cheese and brighten the sauce.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a salty, nutty kick that intensifies every mouthful.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for gooey, cheesy indulgence.
- ½ cup milk: Lightens and loosens the sauce to just the right consistency.
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a hint of spicy warmth.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that tie everything together perfectly.
How to Make Spinach & Artichoke Dip Pasta with Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling your pasta in salted water until it reaches al dente perfection. This ensures the pasta has a slight bite that holds up well when tossed with the creamy sauce. Drain it thoroughly and set aside, letting it rest while you begin the savory sauce.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Artichokes
In a large skillet warmed with olive oil over medium heat, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about a minute until it releases its intoxicating aroma but hasn’t browned, then stir in the chopped artichoke hearts. Cooking these for 2 to 3 minutes allows their subtle tanginess to deepen and infuse the oil, creating a flavorful foundation.
Step 3: Wilt the Spinach
Add the fresh baby spinach to the skillet and cook, stirring gently, until it wilts down to a tender green softness. This step not only adds a fresh, vibrant layer but also melds the flavors beautifully before the creamy cheeses are introduced.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the softened cream cheese, sour cream, Parmesan, mozzarella, and milk. Continuously stir this mixture until it becomes luxuriously smooth and creamy, with all the cheeses melted into a velvety sauce. Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and if you like a little kick, red pepper flakes.
Step 5: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce
Finally, add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to your skillet. Toss everything gently but thoroughly so that every piece of pasta and chicken is coated evenly with the rich sauce. Warm it through for an additional 2 to 3 minutes so all the flavors meld together perfectly.
How to Serve Spinach & Artichoke Dip Pasta with Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a dusting of extra Parmesan cheese on top adds a burst of color and sharpness that complements the savory creaminess of the dish beautifully. If you want a little crunch, toasted breadcrumbs dazzle as a garnish too.
Side Dishes
This pasta is creamy and quite rich on its own, so pairing it with crisp, refreshing sides works wonders. Think a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or steamed green beans with a squeeze of fresh lemon to balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family-style approach, serve this recipe bubbling hot from the skillet, inviting everyone to dig in straight away. Alternatively, you can bake it topped with extra cheese for a golden crust and then dish it out in portions, bringing a warm, rustic vibe to the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Spinach & Artichoke Dip Pasta with Chicken Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more overnight, making for a delightful next-day meal.
Freezing
This dish freezes nicely. Place cooled leftovers into a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or water if the sauce has thickened too much. Alternatively, microwave with short intervals, stirring in between to maintain that creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne or rigatoni are ideal for their ability to hold sauce, other short pasta shapes like fusilli or farfalle work wonderfully as well.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the chicken or replace it with sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based protein to keep the dish hearty and delicious.
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
You can, but be sure to thaw and squeeze out any excess water beforehand to avoid a watery sauce.
What can I substitute for cream cheese if I want a lighter option?
Greek yogurt is a fantastic lighter alternative that maintains creaminess while adding a tangy note.
How spicy does the red pepper flakes make the dish?
The red pepper flakes add a gentle heat that complements the creamy flavors without overpowering them. You can always adjust the amount according to your taste or leave them out entirely.
Final Thoughts
This Spinach & Artichoke Dip Pasta with Chicken Recipe is a heartfelt crowd-pleaser that turns everyday ingredients into a comfort food celebration. It’s creamy, flavorful, and loaded with wholesome goodness that brings family and friends together around the dinner table. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try making it soon—you’ll find it becomes one of those special dishes you return to again and again.
“`
Print
Spinach & Artichoke Dip Pasta with Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Nut-Free
Description
This creamy Spinach & Artichoke Dip Pasta with Chicken combines tender cooked chicken, sautéed garlic, artichokes, and fresh spinach with a luscious blend of cream cheese, sour cream, Parmesan, and mozzarella cheeses. Tossed with al dente penne or rigatoni pasta, this rich and flavorful dish makes a comforting and easy weeknight main course.
Ingredients
Protein and Pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and sliced
- 12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta
Vegetables
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 4 cups baby spinach
Dairy and Sauces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup milk
Seasonings
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne or rigatoni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Sauté garlic: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Cook artichokes and spinach: Stir in the chopped artichoke hearts and cook for 2 to 3 minutes to warm through. Add the baby spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
- Make the creamy sauce: Reduce the heat to low. Add the softened cream cheese, sour cream, grated Parmesan, shredded mozzarella, and milk. Stir continuously until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Season the sauce: Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
- Combine pasta and chicken: Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken breasts to the skillet. Toss everything together gently to coat the pasta and chicken evenly with the creamy sauce.
- Heat through and serve: Continue cooking for 2 to 3 minutes over low heat to heat everything through. Serve the Spinach & Artichoke Dip Pasta warm.
Notes
- Using rotisserie chicken is a convenient shortcut that saves preparation time.
- For a lighter option, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream.
- To make a baked version, transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish, top with extra mozzarella cheese, and broil for 3–5 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
