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Creamy Chicken Spinach Pasta

Creamy Chicken Spinach Pasta for Cozy Weeknight Dinners

A comforting Creamy Chicken Spinach Pasta that’s perfect for cozy weeknight dinners, combining tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and a luxuriously creamy sauce.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 540

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Pasta Choose your favorite type; whole wheat adds fiber and maintains heartiness.
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil Use regular or extra virgin to cook your chicken and prevent sticking.
For the Chicken
  • 1 lb Chicken Breast Lean protein that absorbs flavors well; consider shrimp or plant-based alternatives for variety.
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Creates a rich, creamy sauce; half-and-half or non-dairy milk can lighten it up.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Fresh minced garlic adds an aromatic kick that elevates the dish.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Enhances creaminess and flavor; reserve some for garnishing.
For the Greens
  • 4 cups Fresh Spinach Offers vibrant color and nutrition; add more for extra health benefits.
Seasonings
  • 1 tsp Salt Essential for enhancing flavors; adjust based on your taste preferences.
  • 1/2 tsp Pepper A classic seasoning; freshly cracked pepper adds depth.
  • 1/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes Include for a bit of heat; adjust to spice it up or down!

Equipment

  • large pot
  • skillet
  • colander

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Chicken Spinach Pasta
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your favorite pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, which typically takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and drizzle it with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking. Set it aside while you prepare the sauce.
  2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken breast to the skillet, ensuring not to crowd the pan. Cook for 7-10 minutes until the chicken turns golden brown on the outside and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Stir occasionally for even cooking.
  3. Once the chicken is cooked through, lower the heat slightly and stir in 3 minced garlic cloves. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
  4. Add 4 cups of fresh spinach to the skillet. Stir well and cook for about 2-3 minutes, until the spinach wilts down and becomes tender.
  5. Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and add 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together for 2-3 minutes.
  6. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and gently toss it in the creamy sauce until well-coated.
  7. Season your Creamy Chicken Spinach Pasta with salt, freshly cracked pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes to taste, then serve hot.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 540kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 20gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 5gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 2500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Keep it creamy by ensuring your heat is low when adding cream. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.

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