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The allure of a one-pan meal is undeniable, especially when it combines the richness of a creamy sauce with the heartiness of chicken and pasta. In today's fast-paced world, finding a recipe that not only satisfies hunger but also excites the palate can be a challenge. Enter Creamy Chicken and Spinach Skillet Pasta, a dish that stands out for its ease of preparation and comforting flavors. Whether you’re navigating a hectic weeknight or indulging in a relaxed weekend dinner, this recipe is designed to help home cooks whip up a delicious meal with minimal fuss.

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Skillet Pasta

Discover the joy of home-cooked comfort with Creamy Chicken and Spinach Skillet Pasta, a one-pan recipe that comes together effortlessly. This hearty dish features tender chicken, al dente penne, and vibrant spinach all enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends, this meal not only satisfies but also impresses with its delightful flavors and textures. Make each dinner special with this easy-to-follow recipe that the whole family will love. Enjoy the creamy goodness!
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Ingredients
  

12 oz (340g) penne pasta

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

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 medium onion, diced

5 oz (140g) fresh spinach, chopped

1 cup (240ml) heavy cream

1 cup (100g) grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.

    Prepare the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces, seasoning them liberally with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sauté until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, approximately 7-8 minutes. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

      Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.

        Add Spinach: Incorporate the chopped spinach into the skillet. Stir and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the spinach has wilted down.

          Create the Sauce: Lower the heat to medium-low, then add the heavy cream to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, allowing the mixture to simmer gently for about 2-3 minutes. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until melted and the sauce is creamy. If you like a bit of spice, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes at this stage.

            Combine Ingredients: Return the sautéed chicken to the skillet, followed by the drained penne pasta. Gently toss everything together until the pasta is thoroughly coated in the rich, creamy sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and freshly ground black pepper as desired.

              Serve: To serve, garnish each plate with fresh basil leaves, a sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese, and a light drizzle of olive oil for added flavor. Enjoy your sumptuous creamy chicken and spinach skillet pasta!

                Prep Time: 10 min | Total Time: 30 min | Servings: 4