Chicken Spinach Pasta
Chicken Spinach Pasta is a vibrant and hearty dish that combines tender chicken breast, fresh spinach, and perfectly cooked pasta, all enveloped in a luscious creamy sauce.
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Skillet
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces Pasta Any type such as penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti.
Chicken
- 1 pound Boneless, skinless chicken breasts Cut into bite-sized pieces.
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil For sautéing the chicken.
- 3 cloves Garlic Minced.
Spinach
- 4 cups Fresh spinach Washed and roughly chopped.
Cream
- 1 cup Heavy cream Forms the base of the creamy sauce.
- 1 cup Grated Parmesan cheese Freshly grated is preferred.
Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning Blend of dried herbs.
- Salt and pepper To taste
Optional
- Red pepper flakes Optional For a hint of heat.
Instructions
- 1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about half a cup of the pasta water before draining.
- 2. Sauté the chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- 3. Cook the garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- 4. Add the spinach: Gradually add the spinach and stir until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
- 5. Create the sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
- 6. Combine the pasta and chicken: Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet. Toss until well coated with the sauce.
- 7. Season to taste: Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes as desired.
- 8. Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes.
Notes
For variations, consider adding more vegetables, using different proteins, or experimenting with cheese types.
