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In the ever-evolving world of home cooking, finding a dish that combines convenience, flavor, and nutrition can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. Enter the Creamy Chicken and Spinach Skillet Pasta: a dish that checks all the boxes. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe brings together tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a luxuriously creamy sauce, all served atop al dente penne pasta. With its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, it’s no wonder this dish has become a staple in many households.

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Skillet Pasta

Discover the creamy goodness of Chicken and Spinach Skillet Pasta, a dish that's as convenient as it is delicious. Made with tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a decadent cream sauce, this one-skillet meal comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Rich in flavor and packed with nutrients, this recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a comforting yet balanced meal at home. Follow our guide for step-by-step instructions and tips to master this culinary favorite.
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Ingredients
  

12 oz (340g) penne pasta

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced

2 tablespoons olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

5 oz (140g) fresh spinach, roughly chopped

1 cup (240ml) heavy cream

1 cup (100g) grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

Optional: Red pepper flakes for a spicy kick

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water.

    Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sauté for about 6-8 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and browned. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

      Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it. Pour in the heavy cream and stir well, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.

        Incorporate the Spinach: Add the chopped spinach to the sauce and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring until the spinach is wilted.

          Combine Pasta and Chicken: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the drained pasta. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring to combine. If the mixture is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until reaching the desired creaminess. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes, if desired.

            Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your creamy chicken and spinach skillet pasta!

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