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In the world of home cooking, few dishes offer the same level of comfort and satisfaction as creamy chicken and spinach skillet pasta. This dish is a culinary gem that combines tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and perfectly cooked pasta enveloped in a rich and creamy sauce. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknight dinners or a cozy weekend meal.

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Skillet Pasta

Discover the ultimate comfort food with creamy chicken and spinach skillet pasta. This quick and delicious recipe combines tender chicken, fresh spinach, and perfectly cooked pasta in a rich, creamy sauce, all ready in under 30 minutes. Packed with lean protein and nutrients, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family meal. Explore variations to fit your dietary needs and elevate your dining experience with this delightful recipe that promises satisfaction in every bite.
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Ingredients
  

12 oz (340g) penne pasta

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces

2 tablespoons olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced finely

5 oz (140g) fresh spinach, roughly chopped

1 cup (240ml) heavy cream

1 cup (100g) grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional: Red pepper flakes for an added kick

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring water to a rolling boil and add a generous amount of salt. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water for later use. Set the drained pasta aside.

    Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. When the oil is shimmering, add the diced chicken pieces. Season the chicken with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sauté for approximately 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

      Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously until fragrant—avoid burning. Next, pour in the heavy cream and stir, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet, enhancing the flavor of the sauce.

        Incorporate the Spinach: Add the roughly chopped spinach to the creamy sauce in the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the spinach is wilted and bright green.

          Combine Pasta and Chicken: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the drained penne pasta. Gradually sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese while stirring to evenly coat the pasta and chicken. If the pasta mixture seems too thick, slowly add reserved pasta water a little at a time until achieving a silky, creamy consistency. Taste the dish and adjust the flavor with additional salt, pepper, or optional red pepper flakes for heat, if desired.

            Serve: Transfer the creamy chicken and spinach pasta to bowls or a large serving dish. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately while hot, and indulge in your delightful creamy dish!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 30 minutes | Serves 4