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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.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings

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.
Keyword Easy