Shredded Chicken and Spinach Artichoke Dip Pasta Recipe
If you’re a fan of spinach artichoke dip, then this Shredded Chicken and Spinach Artichoke Dip Pasta will be your new favorite comfort meal! This dish combines the creamy, cheesy goodness of the classic dip with tender pasta and shredded chicken for a hearty, satisfying dinner.
I first made this dish when I had a craving for spinach artichoke dip but also wanted a full meal. Instead of just serving the dip with bread or crackers, I decided to mix it with pasta and some leftover shredded chicken. The result? A rich, cheesy, and flavorful pasta dish that feels like a restaurant-quality meal but is incredibly easy to make at home.
This dish is perfect for weeknights, and it’s a great way to use up any leftover shredded chicken. Serve it with garlic bread for the ultimate cozy dinner experience!
⏱ Recipe Time & Servings
| Preparation Time | Total Cooking Time | Number of Servings |
|---|---|---|
| 10 minutes | 25 minutes | 4 servings |
🛒 Ingredients for My Shredded Chicken and Spinach Artichoke Dip Pasta
- 8 ounces rotini pasta (or any pasta of choice)
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
- 1 cup canned artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 1 cup cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
⭐ Pro Tips for Success
- Drain the Spinach and Artichokes Well – Excess moisture can make the sauce too thin, so be sure to squeeze out any liquid before adding them.
- Use Warm Chicken Broth – This helps the cream cheese melt faster, creating a smooth and creamy sauce.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente – Since the pasta will continue to absorb the sauce, slightly undercook it to prevent mushiness.
- Melt the Cheese Gradually – Adding the cheeses in batches helps them blend smoothly into the sauce without clumping.
- Boost the Flavor – A pinch of red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon juice can enhance the flavors even more!
🍳 Tools Required
- Large pot (for boiling pasta)
- Large skillet or saucepan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Strainer for draining pasta
- Sharp knife (for chopping artichokes)
🔄 Substitutions and Variations
| Substitution | Original Ingredient | New Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Greek yogurt | Cream cheese | A tangier, lighter option |
| Gouda or cheddar | Mozzarella | A richer, more pronounced cheesy flavor |
| Fresh spinach | Frozen spinach | A brighter, fresher taste |
| Whole wheat pasta | Regular pasta | Adds a heartier, fiber-rich bite |
| Shredded turkey | Shredded chicken | A slightly different protein option |
⏳ Make-Ahead Tips
- Shred chicken in advance – Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days for easy meal prep.
- Make the sauce ahead – Store in the fridge and reheat gently before mixing with fresh pasta.
🥄 Step-by-Step Instructions for a Perfect Shredded Chicken and Spinach Artichoke Dip Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. The salt enhances the pasta’s flavor, so don’t skip this step! Once the water is boiling, add 8 ounces of rotini pasta (or your preferred pasta shape). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Cook the pasta until al dente, meaning it should be tender but still slightly firm when bitten. Since the pasta will absorb some sauce later, you don’t want to overcook it. Before draining, save about ½ cup of pasta water, which can help adjust the sauce’s consistency if needed. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Spinach Artichoke Sauce
In the same pot or in a large skillet over medium heat, add ½ cup of chicken broth and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder. Let the broth warm up for about 30 seconds to release the garlic’s aroma.
Next, add 1 cup of cream cheese to the pot. Stir constantly as the cream cheese melts into the broth, creating a smooth, velvety base for the sauce. If the mixture seems too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
Step 3: Add the Chicken, Spinach, and Artichokes
Once the sauce is smooth, stir in 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken. If your chicken is cold, let it warm up in the sauce for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Next, add 1 cup of chopped canned artichoke hearts and 1 cup of thawed, drained spinach. Be sure to squeeze out any excess liquid from the spinach to avoid a watery sauce. Stir everything together until the spinach and artichokes are evenly distributed in the sauce.
Step 4: Melt in the Cheeses
Now, sprinkle in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously as the cheeses melt into the sauce, creating a rich and creamy texture. This process should take about 2-3 minutes.
Taste the sauce and season with salt and black pepper as needed. If you prefer a bit of heat, you can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes at this stage.
Step 5: Combine the Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Using a large spoon or tongs, gently toss everything together until the pasta is well coated. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually stir in small amounts of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Let everything cook together for 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once the pasta is perfectly coated, remove it from the heat. Sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top for a burst of color and freshness.
Serve the pasta immediately, pairing it with garlic bread or a light side salad for the ultimate comforting meal!
🍽 Serving Suggestions for Shredded Chicken and Spinach Artichoke Dip Pasta
| Pairing Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Garlic Bread | The crispy, buttery garlic bread pairs perfectly with the creamy pasta. |
| Caesar Salad | A fresh, crisp salad balances out the richness of the dish. |
| Roasted Brussels Sprouts | Adds a crunchy, slightly bitter contrast to the creamy pasta. |
| Grilled Chicken Skewers | An extra protein boost for a heartier meal. |
🥡 Leftovers and Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to bring back the creamy texture.
- Freeze: Not recommended, as cream cheese-based sauces can separate when thawed.
🥦 Nutritional Information and Benefits of This Dish
- High in Protein – Shredded chicken makes this dish a great protein-packed meal.
- Rich in Calcium – Parmesan and mozzarella provide a good amount of calcium.
- Full of Antioxidants – Spinach and artichokes offer vitamins and minerals that support overall health.
🍷 Suggested Drink That Pairs With The Dish
Best Drink Pairing: Chardonnay
Why? The buttery, creamy notes of a Chardonnay complement the richness of the cheese sauce while its acidity cuts through the heaviness, keeping every bite fresh. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, a cold glass of sparkling lemon water works beautifully!
❤️ Enjoy!
This Shredded Chicken and Spinach Artichoke Dip Pasta is an easy, indulgent meal perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. With its creamy sauce, flavorful chicken, and hearty pasta, it’s sure to be a favorite!
Try it out and let me know what you think! Happy cooking! 🍝✨
