If you’re craving a restaurant-style dinner at home, this Creamy Garlic Spinach Pasta with Grilled Chicken & Roasted Potatoes is the recipe you need. It’s a full, satisfying meal made with simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients, yet it tastes like something you’d order at your favorite Italian-inspired bistro.
The star of this dish is the creamy garlic spinach pasta—perfectly cooked penne tossed in a silky sauce made with garlic, cream, cream cheese, and Parmesan. The fresh spinach adds a pop of color, nutrients, and balance to the richness of the sauce, making it comforting yet wholesome.
On the side, you’ll enjoy crispy roasted baby potatoes seasoned with garlic and olive oil. They bake until golden and crunchy on the outside but stay fluffy and soft on the inside—an irresistible pairing with the pasta.
For protein, juicy grilled chicken breasts add the perfect savory touch. Marinated with olive oil, lemon juice, paprika, oregano, and garlic powder, the chicken is tender, flavorful, and beautifully charred for that fresh-off-the-grill taste.
This recipe is truly an all-in-one dinner—you get carbs, protein, and vegetables all on one plate. It’s family-friendly, weeknight-approved, and elegant enough to serve for guests. Whether you’re cooking for loved ones or meal-prepping for the week, this dish checks every box: easy, flavorful, filling, and comforting.
And the best part? It comes together in under an hour with minimal fuss. One bite and you’ll see why this garlic spinach pasta with chicken and potatoes will quickly become a staple in your kitchen
Recipe Overview
- ⏱ Prep Time: 20 mins
- 🔥 Cook Time: 30 mins
- 🍽 Servings: 4
- ⚡ Calories: ~680 kcal per serving
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
- Juice of ½ lemon
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
For the Creamy Spinach Pasta
- 250g (9 oz) penne pasta
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 200 ml (¾ cup + 1 tbsp) heavy cream
- 60g (2 oz) cream cheese
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 100g (3.5 oz) fresh spinach, chopped
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Roasted Garlic Potatoes
- 8–10 baby potatoes, halved
- 1½ tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken
Mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Coat chicken and marinate for 15–30 minutes.
2. Roast the Potatoes
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Toss potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Place cut-side down on a baking sheet.
- Roast for 25–30 minutes until golden and crispy.
3. Cook the Pasta
Bring salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente, then drain and set aside.
4. Grill the Chicken
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high. Cook chicken 5–6 minutes per side, until juices run clear and internal temp reaches 74°C (165°F). Rest for 5 minutes, then slice.
5. Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce
In a skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic for 30 seconds. Stir in cream, cream cheese, and Parmesan until smooth.
6. Add Spinach & Pasta
Add spinach and let it wilt for 1–2 minutes. Toss in the pasta and coat evenly. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Plate & Serve
Serve pasta with sliced grilled chicken and roasted potatoes on the side. Garnish with parsley.
Tips & Variations
- Use baby kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce for warmth.
- Sprinkle roasted potatoes with grated Parmesan before baking.
- No grill? Simply pan-fry or bake the chicken.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes! Just thaw and drain frozen spinach well before adding it to the sauce to avoid excess water.
What pasta shape works best?
Penne works great, but you can also use rigatoni, fusilli, or even spaghetti.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or milk.
Can I make this recipe lighter?
Yes—swap heavy cream with half-and-half and reduce the Parmesan slightly. You can also use grilled chicken thighs for extra flavor with less cheese.
