Spinach Dip Chicken Pasta

This spinach dip chicken pasta combines two comfort food favorites into one irresistible dinner. Creamy spinach dip meets tender chicken and pasta in a dish that comes together with minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.

I first created this recipe when I needed to use up leftover rotisserie chicken and some wilting spinach. What started as a simple clean out the fridge meal has now become our most requested dinner when friends come over.

Ingredients

• Penne pasta: Provides the perfect shape for holding the creamy sauce. Look for a quality pasta that has a slightly rough texture which helps the sauce cling better.
• Cooked chicken: Adds protein and makes this a complete meal. Rotisserie chicken works wonderfully and saves time.
• Fresh spinach: Brings color nutrition and flavor. Choose bright vibrant leaves with no yellowing.
• Cream cheese: Creates the rich base for our sauce. Allow it to fully soften at room temperature for easier mixing.
• Sour cream: Adds tanginess that balances the richness. Full fat varieties provide the best texture.
• Mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for that irresistible cheese pull effect. Grate your own for better melting.
• Parmesan cheese: Provides savory depth. Use freshly grated rather than pre packaged for best flavor.
• Chicken broth: Thins the sauce to perfect consistency. Homemade offers superior flavor but quality store bought works well.
• Garlic powder and onion powder: Infuse flavor throughout without the need to chop. Always check freshness as these lose potency over time.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Pasta:

Cook the penne pasta just until al dente about 9 minutes depending on your brand. Remember the pasta will continue cooking in the oven so slightly undercooking it now prevents mushiness later. Reserve half a cup of pasta water before draining in case your sauce needs thinning.

Create the Creamy Base:

In a large mixing bowl combine softened cream cheese sour cream mozzarella cheese Parmesan cheese and chicken broth. The secret to a smooth sauce is having your cream cheese properly softened otherwise you will end up with unwanted lumps. Whisk vigorously until the mixture becomes silky and uniform.

Season the Sauce:

Add garlic powder onion powder salt and pepper to the cream mixture. This is where you build your flavor foundation so be generous with seasonings. Taste as you go and adjust according to your preference. If you like a hint of heat a pinch of red pepper flakes works wonderfully here.

Combine Components:

Fold in the cooked chicken and chopped spinach using gentle strokes to avoid breaking up the chicken too much. If using frozen spinach ensure it is thoroughly squeezed dry before adding to prevent watering down your sauce. The warmth from the ingredients will help wilt fresh spinach perfectly.

Assemble for Baking:

Add the cooked pasta to your creamy mixture tossing gently but thoroughly to ensure every piece is generously coated. Transfer this mixture to a well greased baking dish spreading it evenly. Be sure to get the mixture into the corners of the dish for even baking.

Top and Bake:

Sprinkle additional mozzarella over the top creating a blanket that will melt into a golden crust. Bake in your preheated oven watching carefully during the final minutes to achieve that perfect golden brown top without burning the cheese. The edges should be bubbling when it is ready.

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The very first time I made this dish my picky nephew who claims to hate all vegetables cleaned his plate and asked for seconds. That was the moment I knew this recipe was a keeper. The spinach melds so perfectly with the creamy cheese that even vegetable skeptics forget they are eating something green.

Make Ahead Magic

This spinach dip chicken pasta is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble the entire dish up to two days before baking. Simply cover tightly with plastic wrap then aluminum foil and refrigerate. When ready to serve remove from the refrigerator 30 minutes before baking to take the chill off then bake as directed adding about 10 minutes to the cooking time. The flavors actually improve with time making this an ideal prepare ahead option for entertaining.

Smart Substitutions

Do not worry if you do not have every ingredient on hand. This recipe is extremely adaptable. Rotini or bow tie pasta work beautifully in place of penne. Greek yogurt can substitute for sour cream for a tangier lighter version. No fresh spinach? Kale or Swiss chard make excellent alternatives. For a vegetarian version omit the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms and artichoke hearts. The chicken broth can be replaced with vegetable broth without sacrificing flavor.

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Serving Suggestions

This hearty pasta dish stands beautifully on its own but pairs wonderfully with simple sides. A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread makes the perfect companion for sopping up extra sauce. For a lighter option roasted vegetables like broccoli or Brussels sprouts complement the richness of the dish. A glass of unoaked Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio makes this weeknight dinner feel like a special occasion.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, replace fresh spinach with 1 cup of thawed and drained frozen spinach for similar results.

→ What type of chicken works best?

Cooked, shredded chicken works perfectly. Use rotisserie or freshly cooked chicken for added flavor.

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, penne is ideal, but any short pasta like fusilli or rigatoni will also work well.

→ How do I prevent the pasta from drying out?

Ensure all pasta is well-coated in the creamy mixture and cover the dish while baking if needed.

→ What can I substitute for cream cheese?

Use ricotta or mascarpone for a similar creamy texture if cream cheese is unavailable.