Ultimate Creamy Spinach Pasta with Grilled Chicken & Garlic Potatoes 🍗🧄🍝
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: ~680 kcal
🛒 Ingredients
For the grilled chicken 🍗:
2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt & pepper, to taste
Juice of ½ lemon
For the creamy spinach pasta 🍝:
250g (9 oz) penne pasta
1 tbsp butter 🧈
3 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
200 ml (¾ cup + 1 tbsp) heavy cream
60g (2 oz) cream cheese
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese 🧀
100g (3.5 oz) fresh spinach, finely chopped
Salt & pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the roasted potatoes 🥔:
8–10 baby potatoes, halved
1½ tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt & pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
👩🍳 Instructions
Marinate the Chicken:
In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, oregano, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken and marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Roast the Potatoes:
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Toss halved potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Roast cut-side down on a lined baking tray for 25–30 minutes until golden and crisp.
Cook the Pasta:
Boil the penne in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Grill the Chicken:
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until cooked through (internal temp 74°C/165°F). Rest 5 minutes, then slice.
Make the Creamy Sauce:
In a large skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic for 30 seconds. Add cream, cream cheese, and Parmesan. Stir until melted and smooth.
Add Spinach & Pasta:
Stir in chopped spinach until wilted (2 minutes). Add cooked pasta and toss to coat evenly. Season with salt and pepper.
Assemble & Serve:
Plate the creamy pasta, top with sliced grilled chicken and roasted potatoes. Garnish with fresh parsley.
🔁 Notes & Variations
Substitute spinach with kale or arugula for a peppery twist.
Use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese for a lighter option.
Add chili flakes for a spicy kick!