Cheesy Chicken Spinach Alfredo Pasta

If you’re craving a pasta dish that’s rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor, look no further than this Cheesy Chicken Spinach Alfredo Pasta. It combines tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a luscious homemade Alfredo sauce that’s loaded with two kinds of cheese. This recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or whenever you want to impress guests with minimal effort. Plus, it’s made with simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen!

What Makes This Recipe Special

This Cheesy Chicken Spinach Alfredo Pasta stands out because of its irresistibly creamy sauce and the balance of fresh greens with hearty chicken. The combination of Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses creates a velvety texture that coats every strand of fettuccine perfectly. Unlike store-bought Alfredo sauces, this one is made from scratch, giving you full control over the flavors and richness. The spinach adds a pop of color and nutrition, making the dish feel fresh rather than heavy.

Another highlight is how quickly it comes together. In about 30 minutes, you can have a restaurant-quality meal on your table. The garlic-infused olive oil provides a fragrant base, enhancing the overall depth of flavor. Whether you’re a pasta lover or a chicken aficionado, this dish will quickly become a go-to favorite.

What You’ll Gather

• 8 oz fettuccine pasta – the perfect shape to hold the creamy sauce
• 2 chicken breasts, diced – tender and juicy protein
• 2 cups fresh spinach – adds freshness and color
• 2 cups heavy cream – the base for the rich Alfredo sauce
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – for sharp, nutty flavor
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – melts beautifully to add gooeyness
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – essential aromatic foundation
• 2 tbsp olive oil – for cooking chicken and garlic
• Salt, to taste – to season
• Pepper, to taste – for a subtle kick

Hardware & Gadgets

• Large pot – to boil the pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan – to cook chicken and make the sauce
• Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring
• Grater – if you’re using block cheese to shred and grate
• Colander – to drain the pasta

Cheesy Chicken Spinach Alfredo Pasta: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 8 oz of fettuccine pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually about 10-12 minutes). Drain the pasta, reserving about a cup of pasta water. Set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breasts, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly golden. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Garlic and Spinach

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. This step infuses the sauce with garlic flavor and softens the spinach perfectly.

Step 4: Make the Alfredo Sauce

Pour 2 cups of heavy cream into the skillet with the garlic and spinach. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, stirring constantly until the cheeses melt and the sauce thickens. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat in the sauce. Then add the drained fettuccine pasta, tossing gently to combine everything evenly. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs if desired. This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Dietary Customizations

• For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, but note the sauce will be less rich.
• Use gluten-free pasta if you’re avoiding gluten.
• Swap mozzarella for a plant-based cheese alternative for a dairy-free version.
• Add mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and texture, inspired by the Creamy Spinach Mushroom Pasta Casserole.

Little Things that Matter

• Don’t skip reserving pasta water – it helps adjust the sauce consistency perfectly.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and smooth melting.
• Make sure not to overcook the chicken; keep it juicy and tender.
• Minced garlic should be added carefully to avoid burning, which turns it bitter.
• Fresh spinach tastes best here, but you can use frozen spinach (thawed and drained) in a pinch.

Make Ahead Like a Pro

You can prepare the sauce and chicken ahead of time and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. Cook the pasta fresh to avoid it becoming mushy, or slightly undercook the pasta if you plan to mix it with the sauce later and reheat.

Questions People Ask

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful. Just dice them similarly and cook until fully done. They work wonderfully in this Cheesy Chicken Spinach Alfredo Pasta.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

Simmer the sauce a little longer to reduce it, or add more cheese gradually while stirring. Be cautious not to overheat or the sauce might separate.

What can I serve with this pasta?

This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. Garlic bread or dinner rolls are also great complements. For a twist, try the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Alfredo Bake as a side inspiration.

Can I freeze Cheesy Chicken Spinach Alfredo Pasta?

You can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce separately, but pasta texture may change when frozen. It’s best to freeze components individually and combine fresh when reheating.

What to Make After This

• Garlic Parmesan Chicken Alfredo Bake – a cheesy, baked pasta dish that’s perfect for leftovers.
• Creamy Spinach Mushroom Pasta Casserole – a vegetarian casserole with creamy spinach and mushrooms.
• Garlic Parmesan Chicken Alfredo Bake – for another twist on chicken Alfredo in a comforting baked form.
• Creamy Spinach Mushroom Pasta Casserole – a creamy pasta baked casserole with earthy mushrooms and fresh spinach.

Before You Go

This Cheesy Chicken Spinach Alfredo Pasta is a wonderful way to satisfy your pasta cravings with a homemade touch. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with fresh ingredients that make every bite delightful. Give this recipe a try for your next dinner, and enjoy the comforting flavors that everyone will love. Don’t forget, the secret to a perfect Alfredo sauce is patience and quality cheese!

Now that you’ve mastered this dish, why not explore more creamy pasta recipes or experiment with adding your favorite veggies? Happy cooking!

Share on Pinterest