Creamy One‑Pot Chicken Penne with Spinach
Equipment
- Equipment
- Large saucepan
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Whisk
Ingredients
- Ingredients
- 1.5 lb chicken breasts cut into chunks
- 1 tsp seasoning salt
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 2 1/4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can 10 oz diced tomatoes with green chilis
- 5 cups dry penne pasta
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt mixed with 1/4 cup water
- or 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Instructions
- In a large saucepan over medium low heat, sear the chicken and season with seasoning salt.
- Once golden, add Italian seasoning and minced garlic.
- Pour in chicken broth and diced tomatoes with green chilis.
- Cook the chicken until it reaches 165°F, then remove and set aside.
- Add the pasta to the pan and cook until al dente.
- Whisk the yogurt and water mixture (or heavy cream) with cornstarch and add it to the pan.
- Add the cooked chicken back in along with the parmesan cheese.
- Stir in the spinach until wilted and the sauce becomes creamy.
Video
Nutrition
A Simple and Comforting One Pot Dinner
This creamy one pot chicken penne with spinach creates a warm and satisfying dinner that comes together with very little effort. The chicken cooks directly in the same pan as the pasta, which keeps cleanup easy and the flavors rich. Because the broth, tomatoes, and seasonings simmer together, the pasta absorbs everything and becomes tender and flavorful. The final dish tastes creamy, cheesy, and comforting, and it works well for busy nights when you want something hearty without extra steps.
Building the Flavor Base
You begin by searing the chicken in a large saucepan. As the chicken browns, it develops flavor and creates a base for the sauce. A sprinkle of seasoning salt adds depth, while the minced garlic and Italian seasoning bring aroma and warmth. Once the chicken turns golden, you add the broth and the tomatoes with green chilis. These ingredients simmer together and create a savory liquid that cooks the pasta later. Because the chicken cooks gently in the broth, it stays juicy and tender.
Cooking the Pasta in the Same Pot
After the chicken reaches 165°F, you remove it from the pan and add the penne pasta. The pasta cooks directly in the broth, which gives it a rich flavor and a creamy texture. As the pasta softens, it absorbs the liquid and thickens the sauce naturally. This step keeps everything simple and avoids the need for multiple pots. Once the pasta reaches an al dente texture, the dish becomes ready for the creamy mixture.
Adding the Creamy Element
Next, you whisk the yogurt and water mixture with cornstarch. This combination creates a smooth and creamy base without making the sauce heavy. If you prefer, you can use heavy cream instead. When you add the mixture to the pan, it blends with the broth and tomatoes and turns into a silky sauce. The cooked chicken goes back into the pot along with the parmesan cheese. As the cheese melts, it thickens the sauce and adds a salty, savory flavor.
Finishing with Fresh Spinach
Finally, you stir in the spinach. The heat from the pasta and sauce wilts the spinach quickly and adds color and freshness. The dish becomes creamy, warm, and full of flavor. The pasta stays tender, the chicken stays juicy, and the sauce coats everything beautifully. This recipe works well for weeknights, meal prep, or any time you want a comforting one pot dinner.
A Reliable and Flavorful One Pot Meal
This creamy one pot chicken penne with spinach offers a simple and dependable recipe that delivers every time. The ingredients stay easy, the steps stay clear, and the final result tastes rich and satisfying. Whether you serve it for family dinners or quick meals during the week, this dish brings comfort and flavor in every bite.