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Luscious Creamy Chicken & Spinach Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that combines tender chicken, fresh spinach, and perfectly cooked pasta in a rich, creamy sauce. This dish not only delights the palate but also offers a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed on any occasion, from weeknight dinners to special gatherings.

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta in 30 Minutes

Get ready for a delightful spring meal with Luscious Creamy Chicken & Spinach Pasta! This easy weeknight dinner combines tender chicken, fresh spinach, and perfectly cooked pasta in a rich, creamy sauce that's as comforting as it is elegant. In just 30 minutes, youll have a dish that pleases both family and guests alike. Perfect for brunch or a festive gathering, this recipe invites seasonal variations to suit your taste. Try it tonight and enjoy a taste of spring!

Ingredients
  

12 oz (340g) pasta of your choice (fettuccine or penne are excellent options)

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

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

5 cups fresh spinach, rinsed and drained

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup chicken broth (low sodium if preferred)

1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional: Red pepper flakes for a spicy kick

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add your pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Before draining, reserve about ½ cup of the starchy pasta water; then drain the pasta and set it aside.

    Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized pieces of chicken, seasoning them with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes, or until it is golden brown and fully cooked through, stirring occasionally. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

      Sauté the Garlic and Spinach: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, or until it becomes fragrant. Stir in the fresh spinach and cook, stirring constantly, until it has wilted down, approximately 2-3 minutes.

        Make the Creamy Sauce: Pour the chicken broth and heavy cream into the skillet with the sautéed spinach and garlic. Stir well to incorporate everything, then allow it to simmer gently for about 3-4 minutes or until the sauce begins to thicken slightly.

          Incorporate the Chicken and Cheese: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then add in the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce takes on a creamy consistency. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add a splash of the reserved pasta water until the desired creaminess is achieved.

            Combine with Pasta: Add the drained pasta to the skillet and gently toss it in the creamy sauce, ensuring that it is well-coated. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, if desired, to enhance the flavor.

              Serve: Plate the pasta, making sure to create a visually appealing mound. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese for a delightful finish. Enjoy your deliciously creamy chicken and spinach pasta!

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