Craving a delicious and wholesome meal that’s simple to prepare? This Creamy Avocado and Spinach Chicken Pasta is a perfect choice, offering a burst of fresh flavors in a satisfying, healthy chicken pasta dish. You’ll love how quickly this comes together for a weeknight dinner.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Chicken Breast: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
- Pasta: Any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or farfalle works well. Whole wheat pasta is a great healthy chicken pasta option.
- Avocado: Choose ripe avocados for the creamiest sauce.
- Fresh Spinach: Kale or other leafy greens can be used, just cook them down a bit longer.
- Chicken Broth: Vegetable broth is a fine substitute.
Ingredients:
Main:
- 8 oz (about 2 cups) short pasta of your choice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ripe avocado, pitted and scooped
- 4 oz fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup non-dairy milk (almond, oat, or soy)
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Spices:
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 450 kcal
- Tools Needed: Large pot, large skillet, blender or food processor
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
2. Sauté the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until lightly browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté Aromatics
Add the chopped onion to the same skillet and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and oregano, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
4. Prepare the Avocado Sauce
In a blender or food processor, combine the scooped avocado, fresh spinach, chicken broth, non-dairy milk, and lemon juice. Blend until completely smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine and Serve
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sautéed aromatics. Add the drained pasta and pour the creamy avocado sauce over everything. Stir well to coat the pasta and chicken. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Serve immediately for a wonderful healthy chicken pasta meal.
Variation Ideas:
- Add diced bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for extra color and nutrients.
- Sprinkle with red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Stir in a handful of fresh basil or parsley at the end for fresh herbs.
- Top with toasted pine nuts or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for added flavor.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover Creamy Avocado and Spinach Chicken Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to revive the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can you make this healthy chicken pasta recipe dairy-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally dairy-free! You use non-dairy milk and no cheese.
Can you prepare the avocado sauce ahead of time?
It’s best to make the avocado sauce just before serving to prevent it from browning. Avocado oxidizes quickly when exposed to air.
What kind of pasta works best for this recipe?
Short pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or farfalle are ideal as they hold the creamy sauce well.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
While delicious fresh, the avocado sauce can darken slightly if stored for too long. It’s best enjoyed within a day or two for optimal freshness.
How can you make this dish spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the skillet with the garlic and onion, or stir some into the avocado sauce.
Can you use frozen spinach?
Yes, if using frozen spinach, thaw it and squeeze out as much excess water as possible before adding it to the blender.