Chicken and Asparagus Spinach and Artichoke Pasta


This vibrant pasta dish brings together juicy chicken, crisp asparagus, tender spinach, and hearty artichokes in a flavorful, well-balanced meal. Perfect for a cozy dinner or meal prep for the week, this recipe delivers comfort and freshness in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • One-pan, easy cleanup
  • Loaded with fresh vegetables and lean protein
  • Customizable with your favorite pasta or veggies
  • Comes together quickly—perfect for busy weeknights
  • Light, lemony flavor with a satisfying creamy touch

Ingredients

Chicken and Asparagus Spinach and Artichoke Pasta 10 This vibrant pasta dish brings together juicy chicken, crisp asparagus, tender spinach, and hearty artichokes in a flavorful, well-balanced meal. Perfect for a cozy dinner or meal prep for the week, this recipe delivers comfort and freshness in every bite.

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • Olive oil or butter
  • Onion, diced
  • Garlic cloves, minced
  • Red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Pasta (penne, fettuccine, or similar)
  • Chicken broth
  • Asparagus, trimmed and chopped
  • Fresh spinach
  • Canned artichoke hearts, chopped
  • Parmesan cheese, grated
  • Lemon juice and zest
  • Salt and pepper
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

  1. Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
  2. In the same pan, sauté diced onion until soft. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Pour in chicken broth and stir in the pasta. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Add asparagus to the skillet and continue to cook for 3–4 minutes until it begins to soften.
  5. Stir in chopped artichokes and spinach. Cook until spinach wilts.
  6. Return the chicken to the skillet and combine everything well.
  7. Add Parmesan, lemon juice, and zest. Stir until cheese melts and sauce thickens slightly. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 6
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

  • Creamy Version: Add 4 oz cream cheese and 2 tbsp sour cream for a richer sauce.
  • Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth.
  • Spicy Twist: Increase red pepper flakes or add chili oil for heat.
  • Low-Carb: Use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead of pasta.
  • Cheesy Upgrade: Mix in mozzarella or fontina for extra creaminess.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Warm in a skillet with a splash of broth or water. Microwave individual portions on medium heat, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

Chicken and Asparagus Spinach and Artichoke Pasta
Chicken and Asparagus Spinach and Artichoke Pasta 11 This vibrant pasta dish brings together juicy chicken, crisp asparagus, tender spinach, and hearty artichokes in a flavorful, well-balanced meal. Perfect for a cozy dinner or meal prep for the week, this recipe delivers comfort and freshness in every bite.

What type of pasta works best?

Short or long pasta like penne, fusilli, or fettuccine all work great. Choose your favorite.

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, just thaw and squeeze out excess water before adding.

How do I keep the asparagus crisp?

Add it toward the end of cooking so it stays tender-crisp.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Absolutely. It stores well and reheats beautifully.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, just add it at the end to warm through.

Does it need a creamy sauce?

Not necessarily, but you can add cream cheese or heavy cream for a richer feel.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Omit cheese or use a dairy-free alternative. The dish will still be delicious.

What herbs pair well besides parsley?

Basil, thyme, or fresh dill would also complement the flavors nicely.

Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta?

Yes, both work well. Adjust cooking time as needed.

Can I freeze this pasta?

It’s possible, but the texture of asparagus and spinach may soften. Best enjoyed fresh or within a few days.

Conclusion

Chicken and Asparagus Spinach and Artichoke Pasta is a flavorful, nutrient-packed meal that’s simple to prepare yet full of gourmet appeal. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or prepping lunches ahead, this dish is sure to satisfy every time.

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Chicken and Asparagus Spinach and Artichoke Pasta

Chicken and Asparagus Spinach and Artichoke Pasta

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  • Author: samahkitchen
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Chicken recipes
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Chicken and Asparagus Spinach and Artichoke Pasta is a creamy, satisfying dinner packed with tender chicken, fresh asparagus, baby spinach, and marinated artichokes. It’s like your favorite spinach and artichoke dip turned into a hearty meal — ready in under 40 minutes!


Ingredients

  • 12 oz penne or bowtie pasta

  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 2 cups asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces

  • 2 cups baby spinach

  • 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and roughly chopped

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1/2 cup cream cheese

  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

 

  • Optional: red pepper flakes, lemon zest, or extra Parmesan for topping


Instructions

Cook pasta according to package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.

 

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Remove and set aside.

 

In the same skillet, add garlic and asparagus. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until asparagus is just tender.

 

Stir in spinach and artichoke hearts, cooking until spinach is wilted.

 

Lower heat to medium-low and add cream cheese, milk, and Parmesan. Stir until melted and smooth. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to thin the sauce.

 

Return chicken to the skillet, then add the cooked pasta. Toss everything to coat well.

 

Taste and adjust seasoning. Top with red pepper flakes, lemon zest, or extra Parmesan if desired. Serve warm.


Notes

  • Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end for brightness.

  • Use rotisserie chicken for an even faster version.

  • Can be made gluten-free with GF pasta.

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