Chicken Spinach Alfredo Rotini Pasta: A Creamy, Comforting Classic

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Creamy Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, fresh spinach, and perfectly cooked rotini pasta come together in this irresistible dish. Chicken Spinach Alfredo Rotini Pasta is a crowd-pleasing meal that’s rich, satisfying, and easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or impressing guests, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

What is this Recipe?

This recipe combines tender chicken breast, fresh spinach, and rotini pasta tossed in a homemade Alfredo sauce. The result is a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful dish that’s both comforting and elegant. It’s a versatile recipe that can be customized with your favorite ingredients.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Creamy and Comforting: The Alfredo sauce is rich, velvety, and utterly delicious.
  • Nutritious: Packed with protein from the chicken and vitamins from the spinach.
  • Customizable: Add your favorite veggies, swap the protein, or adjust the sauce to your liking.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this creamy and comforting pasta dish. I’ve also included substitutions and variations to suit different dietary preferences:

For the Pasta

  • 12 oz (340g) rotini pasta: You can also use penne, fusilli, or fettuccine.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil: For cooking the chicken.
  • 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Cut into bite-sized pieces.
  • Salt and pepper to taste: For seasoning the chicken.

For the Alfredo Sauce

  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter: Adds richness to the sauce.
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced: For a savory, aromatic base.
  • 1 cup heavy cream: Use half-and-half for a lighter version.
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated works best for a smooth sauce.
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the garlic flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Adds an herby note.
  • Salt and pepper to taste: For seasoning the sauce.

For the Spinach and Assembly

  • 2 cups fresh spinach: Packed and roughly chopped.
  • 1/4 cup reserved pasta water: Helps thin the sauce and bind everything together.
  • Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes: For a hint of heat.

Optional Add-Ins or Toppings

  • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes: Adds a tangy, sweet flavor.
  • 1/2 cup mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms add an earthy flavor.
  • Fresh parsley, chopped: For garnish and a pop of color.
  • Extra Parmesan cheese: For serving.

How to Make Chicken Spinach Alfredo Rotini Pasta

Follow these simple steps to create this creamy and flavorful dish:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
  2. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce

  1. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
  4. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 4: Combine Everything

  1. Add the cooked chicken, fresh spinach, and cooked pasta to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce.
  2. Toss everything together until the spinach is wilted and the pasta is evenly coated in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.
  2. Serve immediately while hot, with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad.

Tips for Success

Here are some expert tips to ensure your Chicken Spinach Alfredo Rotini Pasta turns out perfectly every time:

  1. Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: Pre-grated Parmesan can sometimes clump and not melt as smoothly. Freshly grated cheese ensures a creamy sauce.
  2. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the pasta just until al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when tossed with the sauce.
  3. Customize the Veggies: Swap spinach for kale, arugula, or broccoli, or add other veggies like zucchini or bell peppers.
  4. Add Protein Variations: Not a fan of chicken? Try shrimp, sausage, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
  5. Make it Lighter: Use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
  6. Double the Recipe: This dish is great for leftovers or feeding a crowd. Simply double the ingredients.
  7. Reheat Gently: If reheating leftovers, add a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess.
  8. Add a Kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for a spicy twist.