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Chicken Spinach Pasta

Chicken Spinach Pasta is a flavorful, creamy dish that combines tender chicken with fresh spinach and pasta in a rich, garlic-infused cream sauce. This easy and satisfying meal is perfect for a weeknight dinner, offering a balance of protein, greens, and comforting pasta. The creamy sauce enhances the natural flavors, making this dish a family favorite.

 

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 12 oz pasta (penne, spaghetti, or your favorite type)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  • Cook the pasta:
    • Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
  • Cook the chicken:
    • Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
    • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  • Prepare the sauce:
    • In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
    • Add the chopped spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes, until wilted.
  • Make the creamy sauce:
    • Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer, then add the dried oregano and red pepper flakes (if using). Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
  • Combine pasta and chicken:
    • Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, along with the cooked pasta. Toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are well-coated with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
  • Finish the dish:
    • Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce, adding richness and flavor. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
  • Serve:
    • Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot.

Notes

  • For added flavor, you can sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top before serving.
  • You can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a lighter cream for a lower-calorie version.
  • For a bit of crunch, top the dish with toasted pine nuts or breadcrumbs.
  • You can also add other vegetables, like sun-dried tomatoes or mushrooms, for additional flavor and texture.

Keywords: Chicken Spinach Pasta, creamy chicken pasta, spinach pasta recipe, garlic cream pasta, chicken and spinach, easy pasta recipe, healthy chicken dinner, creamy chicken spinach dish, weeknight pasta dinner, chicken pasta with cream sauce.