Chicken and Spinach Penne in White Sauce is a comforting, creamy pasta dish that combines tender chicken, nutritious spinach, and perfectly cooked penne tossed in a luscious white sauce. The smooth, velvety sauce — rich with butter, milk, and cheese — coats every bite, while the spinach adds a fresh, earthy touch that balances the flavors beautifully.

This dish is both hearty and elegant, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or casual get-togethers. It’s a restaurant-quality meal that’s surprisingly simple to make at home, bringing together the warmth of comfort food and the sophistication of classic Italian cuisine.

Why I Love This Recipe

I absolutely love this recipe because it’s the perfect fusion of flavor, texture, and nutrition. The creamy white sauce pairs wonderfully with juicy chicken pieces and fresh spinach, creating a dish that’s indulgent yet wholesome. Each forkful feels rich and satisfying, without being too heavy.

It’s also one of my favorite go-to meals for busy evenings — quick to prepare, beautifully balanced, and always a hit with family or guests. Whether you’re a pasta lover or just craving something cozy and delicious, this recipe never disappoints.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

You must try Chicken and Spinach Penne in White Sauce because it’s:

Comforting and wholesome – creamy yet packed with greens and lean protein.
Easy to prepare – ready in just 30 minutes.
Restaurant-style at home – rich, flavorful, and beautifully creamy.
Customizable – can be made with different veggies, cheese, or pasta shapes.

This dish brings together all the elements of a perfect pasta dinner — comfort, flavor, and freshness — in one satisfying bowl.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: Approximately 520 kcal per serving

Cuisine: Italian-Inspired

Course: Main Course / Dinner

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

300g (10 oz) penne pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt, for boiling water

For the Chicken:

2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless (cut into bite-sized pieces)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
1 tablespoon olive oil or butter

For the White Sauce:

2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk (warm)
½ cup heavy cream (optional for richness)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
3 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and black pepper, to taste
¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for flavor)

For Finishing:

2 cups fresh spinach leaves
1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
Extra Parmesan and herbs (parsley or basil) for garnish

Simple Cooking Directions

Cook penne pasta until al dente.
Sauté chicken until golden and cooked through; set aside.
Prepare the white sauce by melting butter, whisking in flour, and slowly adding milk.
Stir in cheese, garlic, and seasoning.
Add chicken, spinach, and pasta to the sauce.
Toss until well-coated and creamy. Serve hot.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, drizzle with olive oil to prevent sticking, and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Season chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. In a skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Sauté chicken for 5–6 minutes until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Make the White Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden. Gradually pour in warm milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Add cream (if using), then let the sauce simmer gently until thickened.

Step 4: Add Flavor
Stir in minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. The sauce should be creamy and smooth. Adjust consistency with a splash of milk if needed.

Step 5: Combine Everything
Add cooked chicken and spinach to the sauce. Let the spinach wilt slightly, then add the cooked penne. Toss until every piece is well-coated in the creamy sauce.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Transfer to serving bowls and sprinkle with extra Parmesan and chopped herbs. Serve warm and enjoy the comforting aroma!

How to Serve

Serve Chicken and Spinach Penne in White Sauce hot as a main course. It pairs beautifully with:

Garlic bread or focaccia
A fresh green salad
A glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon

For a family dinner, serve it straight from the pan with extra cheese on top. For a fancier presentation, twirl the pasta onto plates and garnish with a lemon wedge or fresh basil leaves.

Additional Recipe Tips

Use fresh spinach for the best flavor and texture. Frozen spinach works too — just drain it well.
Always use warm milk in the white sauce to prevent lumps.
Cook pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly in the sauce.
Don’t rush the sauce — let it thicken slowly for a silky texture.
Add a pinch of chili flakes for a mild kick.

Variations

Mushroom Spinach Penne: Add sautéed mushrooms for earthy depth.
Broccoli Chicken Penne: Substitute spinach with blanched broccoli florets.
Cheesy Delight: Stir in mozzarella or cheddar for an extra-rich sauce.
Healthy Twist: Use whole wheat or lentil pasta for more fiber.
Seafood Option: Replace chicken with shrimp or salmon for a seafood version.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Can be frozen for up to 1 month, but the sauce may separate slightly. Reheat gently with extra milk or cream.
Reheating Tip: Warm on the stove over low heat with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Special Equipment Needed

Large pot for pasta
Deep skillet or sauté pan
Whisk (for sauce)
Tongs or wooden spoon
Grater for Parmesan

FAQs

Q1: Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes! Penne works great, but fettuccine, rigatoni, or farfalle are also perfect choices.

Q2: Can I use milk only, without cream?
Absolutely. The sauce will be slightly lighter but still creamy and flavorful.

Q3: How can I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and substitute flour with cornstarch or gluten-free flour.

Q4: Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, skip the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or peas instead.

Q5: Why is my white sauce lumpy?
Lumps usually form if you add cold milk too quickly. Always use warm milk and whisk continuously.

Conclusion

Chicken and Spinach Penne in White Sauce is the ultimate blend of creamy comfort and fresh flavor. With tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and a luxurious white sauce, it’s a dish that satisfies every craving. Perfect for family dinners, date nights, or cozy evenings, this recipe is as elegant as it is easy.

Whether you serve it with crusty bread or enjoy it straight from the pan, this pasta guarantees smiles all around. Creamy, hearty, and bursting with flavor — it’s everything you love in one bowl.