Budget-Friendly Chicken and Spinach Pasta

This easy Budget-Friendly Chicken and Spinach Pasta is a creamy, delicious dish that’s ready in just 30 minutes. At only $1.75 per serving, it’s a satisfying and affordable meal perfect for the whole family!

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 lb pasta (penne or rotini) - $1.00

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced - $4.00

• 3 cups fresh spinach (or 1 cup frozen spinach) - $1.00

• 2 cloves garlic, minced - $0.20

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - $1.00

• 1/2 cup milk (any type) - $0.50

• 2 tbsp olive oil - $0.20

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning - $0.10

• Salt and pepper to taste

Total Cost: ~$7.00 (serves 4, $1.75 per serving)

Instructions
Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5-6 minutes until the chicken is browned and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted (or if using frozen spinach, cook until thawed). Stir in the milk and Parmesan cheese, creating a light sauce. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to combine. Add the cooked pasta, tossing everything together until well coated. Serve hot.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 450

• Protein: 35g

• Fat: 15g

• Carbohydrates: 50g

• Fiber: 5g

• Sodium: 400mg

• Serving Size: 1 portion (serves 4)

Things You’ll Love About This Recipe

• Creamy, filling, and packed with protein and greens

• Quick and easy to make, perfect for weeknight dinners

• Budget-friendly with simple ingredients

• Family-friendly with a mild flavor everyone will enjoy

Expert Tips for Best Results

• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture

• Don’t overcook the chicken—keep an eye on it to retain juiciness

• If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of pasta water to loosen it

Substitutions

• Swap chicken for shrimp or turkey for a different protein

• Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for dietary preferences

• Add vegetables like cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for more color and flavor

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal

• Garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh basil for added flavor

• Pair with a simple vegetable like roasted broccoli or asparagus