Name: Chicken Alfredo with Spinach and Mushrooms
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts, sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 8 oz fettuccine pasta; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup mushrooms, sliced; 3 cups fresh spinach; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

This Chicken Alfredo with Spinach and Mushrooms is a creamy, comforting dish that brings together tender chicken, fresh spinach, savory mushrooms, and a rich Alfredo sauce. It’s a perfect option for a weeknight dinner when you want something satisfying and flavorful without too much effort.

Ingredients

2 chicken breasts, sliced

2 tablespoons olive oil

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and pepper to taste

8 oz fettuccine pasta

2 tablespoons butter

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup mushrooms, sliced

3 cups fresh spinach

1 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

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

Directions

Cook the fettuccine pasta according to the package instructions. Once done, drain and set aside.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes until softened and browned.

Stir in the spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes, until wilted.

Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Add the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together to coat in the creamy sauce.

Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and load up on extra mushrooms and spinach for a hearty, veggie-packed dish.

Swap Pasta: You can substitute the fettuccine with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or spaghetti.

Add Herbs: Fresh basil or thyme can be added to enhance the flavor of the sauce.

Extra Creamy: For an even richer dish, try adding more heavy cream or a touch of cream cheese to the sauce.

Cheese Variations: Swap out Parmesan for other cheeses like Romano or Gruyère for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover Chicken Alfredo with Spinach and Mushrooms in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Reheat the leftovers in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to bring back the creamy consistency. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between, to prevent the sauce from separating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

I prefer fresh chicken for this dish because it cooks more evenly, but you can use frozen chicken if you thaw it beforehand. Just make sure to cook it through completely.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge and combine them when you’re ready to serve.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! You can substitute fettuccine with any other pasta you like, such as penne, spaghetti, or linguine. Just adjust the cooking time for the pasta shape you choose.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

To make this gluten-free, simply swap the fettuccine for a gluten-free pasta option. Make sure to check the ingredients for the Parmesan cheese to ensure it’s gluten-free.

Can I freeze this Chicken Alfredo with Spinach and Mushrooms?

While you can freeze it, the creamy sauce may change in texture upon thawing and reheating. If you plan to freeze it, I recommend freezing the chicken and pasta separately from the sauce, and then combining them later.

Conclusion

This Chicken Alfredo with Spinach and Mushrooms has quickly become a go-to recipe in my kitchen. It’s creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor, making it the perfect meal for a busy weeknight. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this dish is sure to impress. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to your taste and dietary preferences. I hope you enjoy making and eating it as much as I do!

Recipe: