Save A hearty, protein-packed skillet pasta featuring a creamy sauce, tender spinach, tangy artichokes, and your choice of protein for a satisfying one-pan meal.
This skillet quickly became a family favorite for busy weeknights when I needed something filling yet simple to prepare.
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Ingredients
- Whole wheat or protein-enriched pasta: 8 oz (225 g) penne or rotini recommended
- Cooked chicken breast or canned white beans: 2 cups (300 g), diced or drained
- Baby spinach: 2 cups (60 g), roughly chopped
- Artichoke hearts: 1 can (14 oz/400 g), drained and quartered
- Yellow onion: 1 small, finely chopped
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Chicken or vegetable broth: 1 cup (240 ml), low-sodium
- Milk or unsweetened plant-based milk: 1 cup (240 ml)
- Low-fat cream cheese: 4 oz (115 g), cubed
- Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup (60 g), grated
- Olive oil: 1 tbsp
- Dried Italian herbs: 1 tsp
- Salt: 1/2 tsp or to taste
- Ground black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Red pepper flakes: Pinch, optional
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Instructions
- Cook Pasta:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Onion:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until translucent.
- Add Garlic:
- Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Stir in the cooked chicken or white beans, artichokes, and spinach. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until the spinach is wilted.
- Create Sauce:
- Pour in the broth and milk, then add the cream cheese cubes. Stir until the cream cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Add Pasta and Season:
- Add the cooked pasta, Parmesan cheese, Italian herbs, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Toss until everything is evenly coated and heated through.
- Final Taste:
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot garnished with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs if desired.
Save My family loves gathering around this skillet meal because it brings everyone to the table quickly with full stomachs and smiles.
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Variations
Add sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for extra flavor and colors.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair this dish with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing complement.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.
Save 
This creamy spinach artichoke skillet is the perfect quick meal for busy evenings or a comforting lunch option.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I substitute the chicken with a vegetarian option?
Yes, drained canned white beans provide a protein-rich vegetarian alternative that blends well with the creamy sauce and vegetables.
- → What pasta types work best for this dish?
Penne or rotini hold the creamy sauce nicely, especially whole wheat or protein-enriched varieties for added nutrition.
- → How can I make the sauce creamier without cream cheese?
Using low-fat Greek yogurt or blended silken tofu can add creaminess while maintaining a rich texture.
- → Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
Absolutely, swapping regular pasta with gluten-free options ensures the dish fits gluten-sensitive diets without compromising flavor.
- → What herbs enhance the flavor of this dish?
Dried Italian herbs alongside a pinch of red pepper flakes add aromatic depth and a mild heat that complement the creamy sauce.
