Goat Cheese Spinach Chicken Pasta

Creamy goat cheese spinach chicken pasta is my favorite way to upgrade weeknight dinners when I want something quick and a little fancy I love how the tangy cheese melts into a luscious sauce while the spinach gently wilts and each bite of juicy chicken soaks up all that goodness This dish brings everyone to the table fast without much effort

Every time I serve this at a family dinner no one leaves a bite behind I first made it for my best friend’s birthday and now it is our go to for cozy catch ups and quick weeknights

Ingredients

• Fusilli pasta: The twists hold the sauce beautifully Choose a bronze cut or artisanal brand for best texture
• Diced chicken: Fresh chicken breast or thigh works best Use organic or free range if available for juicy bites
• Fresh spinach: Adds earthy flavor and color Baby spinach wilts quickly and is sweeter than mature leaves
• Goat cheese: Creamy and tangy pick a log or crumbled variety with a bright fresh aroma
• Garlic cloves: Use whole fresh cloves for aromatic punch Avoid pre minced jarred versions
• Chicken broth: Brings body to the sauce Low sodium stock lets you control the seasoning

Step-by-Step Instructions

Boil the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil Add fusilli and cook until just al dente about nine minutes Reserve half a cup of pasta water before draining for finishing the sauce

Sauté the Aromatics:

Warm a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat Add minced garlic Cook slowly for one to two minutes until fragrant but not browned

Cook the Chicken:

Add diced chicken to the skillet Season lightly with salt and pepper Sauté for five to six minutes Stir often until the pieces turn golden and are cooked through

Wilting the Spinach:

Scatter spinach leaves over the chicken Let them soften for one minute then toss everything together with tongs The spinach should just collapse and turn glossy green

Make the Goat Cheese Sauce:

Lower the heat Stir in the crumbled goat cheese and chicken broth Use a spatula to gently fold it all together until the cheese melts and forms a creamy sauce Simmer on low for two minutes so the flavors meld

Combine Pasta and Sauce:

Add drained pasta to the skillet Fold together so the sauce coats every spiral Splash in a bit of reserved pasta water if needed for a silky finish Taste and season again

Serve It Up:

Spoon into warm bowls immediately Sprinkle with extra goat cheese crushed walnuts or fresh herbs if desired

Save This

My favorite part is the goat cheese because it melts into the pasta like velvet My little cousin always tries to sneak the extra cheese crumbles off the serving plate and it is a running joke at family dinner

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days The pasta might absorb sauce so add a spoonful of water or broth when reheating Heat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to avoid drying

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use whole wheat or gluten free pasta if needed Swap chicken for turkey pulled rotisserie or even cooked lentils for a vegetarian spin If goat cheese is too tangy try half ricotta and half cream cheese for a milder sauce

Serving Suggestions

This pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables For extra crunch and richness a sprinkle of toasted walnuts over each serving makes it feel restaurant special

Cultural Note

Goat cheese brings a French countryside feel to this recipe Combined with spinach and chicken it transforms familiar pasta night into something rustic yet refined Many French bistros offer similar creamy spinach pastas with local cheese

Save This

Common Questions

→ What type of pasta works best?

Fusilli is ideal for holding the creamy sauce, but penne or rotini also work well.

→ Can I use another cheese instead of goat cheese?

Feta or cream cheese can substitute for goat cheese, though the flavor will be less tangy.

→ How can I add more flavor?

Try adding sun-dried tomatoes, fresh herbs, or a squeeze of lemon juice for added brightness.

→ Is it possible to make this vegetarian?

Absolutely—simply omit the chicken or replace it with sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas.

→ What side dishes pair well?

A simple green salad or garlic bread complements the creamy, savory pasta nicely.

→ How can leftovers be stored?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days and reheat gently.