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To create a truly memorable Creamy Chicken & Spinach Pasta Skillet, it's important to understand the role each ingredient plays in the dish. This knowledge will not only help in mastering the recipe but also allow for creative variations based on personal preferences or dietary needs.

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Skillet

Discover the heartwarming flavors of Creamy Chicken & Spinach Pasta Skillet, a quick and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion. This one-pan dish combines tender chicken, fresh spinach, and rotini pasta enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce, making it a staple for busy weeknights. Ready in under 30 minutes, it's not just easy to make, but also packed with nutrients and delicious flavors that everyone will love. Dive into a comforting culinary experience that nourishes both body and soul!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz rotini pasta (or your preferred pasta variety)

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 medium onion, finely chopped

5 oz fresh spinach leaves

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup chicken broth

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper, to taste

Red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)

Fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring it to a rolling boil. Cook the rotini according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set aside.

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

      Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, until it becomes translucent and tender. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.

        Add Spinach: Toss in the fresh spinach leaves, stirring constantly until they just begin to wilt, which should take about 2 minutes.

          Make the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to mix the ingredients well. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Italian seasoning, tasting and adjusting with additional salt and pepper as needed.

            Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, along with the drained pasta. Toss everything together to ensure it is well coated in the creamy sauce. Gradually sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. If the sauce appears too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to adjust to your desired creaminess.

              Finish and Serve: Once everything is heated through, remove the skillet from the heat. If you like a bit of spice, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top. Finally, garnish the dish with freshly chopped basil or parsley before serving.

                Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4-6

                  Presentation Tips: Serve the pasta in shallow bowls for a beautiful display. Consider adding a light drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top for added flavor and visual appeal.