Creamy Chicken, Mushroom & Spinach Parmesan Pasta

A rich and creamy pasta recipe made with tender grilled chicken, golden sautéed mushrooms, fresh spinach, crispy bacon, and penne pasta tossed in a garlic Parmesan cream sauce. Perfect for a comforting family dinner!

Ingredients

For the pasta

• 12 oz (340 g) penne pasta

• 2 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 8 oz (225 g) mushrooms, sliced

• 3 cups fresh spinach

• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 1 cup heavy cream

• ½ cup chicken broth

• ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning

• ½ teaspoon paprika

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Season the chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Step 3: Cook the chicken

Cook the chicken for approximately 5–7 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until golden brown and the center reaches 165°F (74°C). Transfer to a plate, let it rest for 5 minutes, and slice into strips.

Step 4: Sauté the mushrooms

In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5–7 minutes until golden brown and tender. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30–60 seconds.

Step 5: Make the creamy sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir gently and bring to a low simmer. Add the Parmesan cheese, mozzarella, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

Step 6: Add the spinach

Stir in the fresh spinach and cook for 1–2 minutes until wilted. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water until it reaches your preferred consistency.

Step 7: Combine everything

Add the cooked penne pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet. Toss until everything is evenly coated with the creamy Parmesan sauce.

Step 8: Add the finishing touches

Fold in the crumbled crispy bacon. Garnish with fresh parsley and a little extra Parmesan cheese.

Step 9: Serve

Serve immediately while warm and creamy. Add extra black pepper and Parmesan cheese on top for a restaurant-style finish.

Nutrition Information

Estimated per serving, based on 4 servings.

Nutrition values are estimates and vary depending on the brands, portion sizes, and ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

Q1: Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! Rigatoni, fusilli, farfalle, or fettuccine all work well with this creamy sauce.

Q2: Can I make this recipe without bacon?

Absolutely. Leave out the bacon or replace it with sun-dried tomatoes for a flavorful alternative.

Q3: Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich. For a creamier result, use half-and-half or add a small amount of extra Parmesan cheese.

Q4: Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes. Thaw it completely and squeeze out excess water before adding it to the sauce.

Q5: How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.

Q6: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes. Cook the chicken and prepare the sauce ahead of time, then combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve. The sauce may thicken during storage.

Q7: How do I make the sauce extra creamy?

Use freshly grated Parmesan, simmer the sauce gently, and avoid boiling it after adding the cheese. A little reserved pasta water helps the sauce cling to the penne.

Q8: Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be. Use certified gluten-free pasta and check that your broth and other packaged ingredients are gluten-free.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with garlic bread or toasted sourdough.

• Pair with a fresh cucumber and tomato salad.

• Add roasted broccoli or asparagus for extra vegetables.

• Finish with fresh parsley and freshly grated Parmesan.

Recipe Tip: For the best flavor, brown the mushrooms properly before adding the cream. This creates a deeper, savory flavor that makes the Parmesan sauce especially delicious.

Enjoy this creamy, cheesy chicken pasta with your family!