If you’re searching for a cozy, satisfying dinner, try butternut squash pasta with chicken and spinach. This dish combines rich flavors, vibrant colors, and wholesome ingredients for a warming meal that’s perfect for any season.
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Butternut Squash Pasta with Chicken Recipe
Butternut squash pasta with chicken and spinach is a well-balanced, nutritious, and hearty pasta dish. It combines protein, fiber, vitamins, and comforting flavors, perfect for both weeknight meals and special occasions. The leftovers taste just as good the next day.
This pasta dish is perfect for chilly evenings or anytime I want something that feels like a hug in a bowl. You can serve it as a quick, healthy weeknight dinner or as an elegant main. It’s also easy to adjust the texture and richness depending on your mood. You can add more cream for extra indulgence or keep it lighter with a splash of broth.
The dish can be enjoyed with different sides, such as crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette, garlic bread or warm focaccia. Roasted Brussels sprouts, sautéed green beans, or honey-glazed carrots add more veggies to the meal. For a heartier spread, serve alongside a bowl of hearty vegetable soup or a platter of grilled asparagus.
The pasta pairs well with a glass of dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay. White sangria is also a good pair. Non-alcoholic options include sparkling water with a twist of lemon, herbal tea, or spiced warm cider.
Here’s how to make the butternut squash pasta with chicken and spinach:
Butternut Squash Pasta with Chicken and Spinach
Nutrition
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (penne, spaghetti, linguine, fettuccine, or rigatoni, work well)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts cubed
- 2 cups baby spinach lightly packed
- 2 cups butternut squash sauce homemade or store-bought
- 2 cups butternut squash peeled and cubed (about ½-inch pieces)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese plus more for serving
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme or rosemary optional
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes for heat Optional
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the squash cubes with a little olive oil, salt, pepper, and thyme (if using). Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping once halfway, until tender and golden.
- Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken cubes, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 6–8 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove from pan and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Add spinach and cook until wilted (about 2 minutes).
- Add the cooked chicken and roasted squash cubes to the skillet. Pour in the butternut squash pasta sauce. Let everything simmer together for 3–5 minutes.
- Add the drained pasta and Parmesan. Stir until the sauce coats everything evenly. Adjust seasoning and add red pepper flakes if desired.
- Plate hot with extra Parmesan sprinkled on top. Optional: a drizzle of olive oil or balsamic glaze.
Notes
- Add a touch of nutmeg or cinnamon in the sauce for depth.
- This reheats well for lunch the next day!
SIMILAR RECIPES:
Variations
From this butternut squash pasta, you can create other versions by adjusting the ingredients. Here’re some variations you can try:
- Vegetarian Pasta leaves out the chicken and adds extra spinach or mushrooms for a plant-based version.
- Spicy Butternut Squash Pasta includes a pinch of red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños for a gentle heat.
- One-Pot Version cooks everything in a single pot, simmering the cubed squash and pasta together before stirring in shredded rotisserie chicken and spinach at the end.
- Dairy-Free Version swaps out cream or milk for coconut milk or a rich cashew cream.
- Bacon or Pancetta Addition brings a smoky, salty note by adding crisped bacon bits or diced pancetta.
- Pesto-Tossed Variation stirs in a spoonful of basil or kale pesto just before serving. This adds herby freshness and vibrant color to the pasta.
- Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta uses your favorite alternative noodles.
- Nutty Finish sprinkles toasted pine nuts, walnuts, or pecans over the finished dish for a crunchy texture and a hint of earthy flavor.
Creamy butternut squash pasta with chicken and spinach is my go-to for a comforting, nutrient-packed meal that never disappoints. I can easily adapt it to suit different tastes or dietary needs. Whether you stick to the classic or try one of the tasty variations, this dish is sure to warm both heart and home.