Oh boy, do I have a treat for you today! I can’t contain my excitement about sharing one of my all-time favorite recipes: Spinach Dip Chicken Pasta. This dish has a way of bringing everyone to the table, and let me tell you, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. I remember the first time I made this for my friends during a cozy movie night — the sounds of forks clinking and happy cheers filled the room as they dug into their plates. There’s something so comforting about creamy pasta, especially when it’s loaded with flavor and nutrition from spinach and chicken.
What makes this recipe even more special is how customizable it is; you can tweak the ingredients to suit your taste preferences or what you have on hand. Whether it’s a chilly night or a gathering with loved ones, this Spinach Dip Chicken Pasta is always a hit. Let’s dive in and whip up this creamy, cheesy goodness!
What’s in Spinach Dip Chicken Pasta?
Now, let’s chat about the ingredients that come together to create this delightful dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
Penne Pasta: The perfect pasta shape to hold onto all that creamy goodness. You can substitute it with any pasta you prefer, like rotini or fusilli.
Cooked Chicken: I love using shredded rotisserie chicken for ease, but leftover chicken works just as well! It adds a hearty protein boost and incredible flavor.
Fresh Spinach: Packed with nutrients, fresh spinach adds color, texture, and a healthy touch. If fresh isn’t available, frozen spinach can step in — just remember to thaw and drain it!
Cream Cheese: This silky ingredient lends a creamy base to our sauce. A soft block of cream cheese works best for smooth mixing.
Sour Cream: It brings a tangy flavor, balancing out the richness beautifully. Greek yogurt is a great substitute if you’re feeling adventurous!
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: This cheese gives that gooey, melty goodness we all crave, plus a little extra on top creates a beautiful crust.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty flavor and depth to the dish. A blend of Parmesan and Pecorino Romano can elevate it even more.
Chicken Broth: This brings moisture and flavor without overpowering the dish. Low-sodium broth is my go-to for a healthier option.
Garlic Powder and Onion Powder: These two are the unsung heroes of flavor — they pack a punch and elevate our creamy mixture.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all the other ingredients. Always adjust to your taste!
Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of this bright herb at the end gives a fresh look and flavor!
Is Spinach Dip Chicken Pasta Good for You?
If you’re wondering about the health aspect of this dish, you’ll be pleased to know that it’s packed with some great nutrients.
Spinach: This leafy green is loaded with vitamins A and C, iron, and calcium. It’s like a little green powerhouse on your plate!
Chicken: A fantastic source of lean protein that’s great for muscle repair and growth. If you use skinless chicken, it’s even healthier.
Pasta: While traditional pasta has carbs, they are a good source of energy! If you want a lower-carb option, whole grain or zucchini noodles are great alternatives.
Now, one thing to keep in mind is that this dish does have higher calorie content due to the cream cheese and sour cream. Moderation is key, and it’s best enjoyed as part of a balanced meal.
What You’ll Need:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (or 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, plus more for topping
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
*Serves: 6-8 people*
How to Make Spinach Dip Chicken Pasta?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). The magic starts here!
2. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside while you mix the sauce.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy. Trust me, you’ll want to taste this!
4. Stir in the cooked chicken and chopped spinach until everything is well combined and looking fabulous.
5. Add the cooked penne pasta to the mixture and thoroughly coat every noodle in that creamy goodness.
6. Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with additional shredded mozzarella cheese for that irresistible cheesy top.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, filling your home with the most delicious aroma.
8. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with chopped parsley before you dig in!
Delicious Variations and Tips!
Let’s have a little fun with this recipe! You can take it up a notch by adding other veggies — bell peppers or mushrooms are great additions. Have leftover veggies? Throw them in!
If you’re in the mood for some spice, a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick to the dish.
And if you want to make it more substantial, pair this pasta with a simple side salad for a complete meal!
Lastly, leftovers? They’re even better the next day, if they last that long! Pop them in the fridge, and you’ve got a fantastic lunch waiting for you.
I can hardly wait for you to try this recipe and bring a little indulgence into your kitchen! Don’t forget to share your experience with me — I love hearing how it turns out for you. Happy cooking!
