Go Back
- 8 ounces of fettuccine or penne pasta - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced - 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning - Salt and pepper to taste - Optional: red pepper flakes for added spice

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta in 30 Minutes

Indulge in the comforting flavors of Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta, a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a rich, creamy sauce. This recipe offers a balanced meal with protein, greens, and carbohydrates, making it perfect for dinner. With easy-to-follow steps, you’ll create a satisfying meal that’s not only tasty but also visually appealing. Enjoy a bowl of comfort and warmth that’s sure to impress your family and friends!

Ingredients
  

12 oz (340g) pasta (fettuccine or penne)

2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped

1 lb (450g) chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup chicken broth

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and drain the rest. Set aside.

    Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once heated, add the pieces of chicken breast. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

      Sauté Garlic and Spinach: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.

        Make the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat and stir in the heavy cream. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until melted and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.

          Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, and mix in the drained pasta. Toss everything together until the pasta is coated with the creamy sauce. Add red pepper flakes for a kick, if desired. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

            Serve: Turn off the heat, and garnish the creamy chicken and spinach pasta with fresh parsley. Serve immediately, and enjoy your delightful meal!

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