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In today's fast-paced world, finding a delicious and satisfying meal that can be prepared in under 30 minutes is a culinary treasure. One such dish that perfectly blends taste, nutrition, and convenience is Creamy Chicken and Spinach Skillet Pasta. This one-pan meal is not only easy to prepare but also rich in flavors, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With tender pieces of chicken, vibrant greens, and a velvety sauce, this dish is sure to leave you and your loved ones craving more.

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Skillet Pasta

Discover the joy of cooking with Creamy Chicken and Spinach Skillet Pasta, a delightful one-pan dish that comes together in under 30 minutes. Bursting with tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and a rich, creamy sauce, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. This recipe balances flavor and nutrition, making it a healthy choice for any meal. Dive into a culinary treasure that’s sure to become a family favorite, satisfying both your taste buds and your schedule.
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Ingredients
  

8 oz (225g) penne pasta

2 tablespoons olive oil

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

Salt and pepper to taste

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1 cup (240ml) chicken broth

1 cup (240ml) heavy cream

3 cups fresh spinach

1 cup (100g) grated Parmesan cheese

1 tablespoon lemon juice

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 package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.

    Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped chicken pieces, seasoning them generously with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken for approximately 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it's golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

      Add Garlic and Seasoning: In the same skillet with the remaining oil, add the minced garlic and Italian seasoning. Sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring frequently until the garlic is fragrant but not browned, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste.

        Create the Sauce: Carefully pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring the mixture to combine well. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 3-4 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly and thicken.

          Incorporate Spinach and Cheese: Add the fresh spinach to the skillet, stirring continuously until the spinach is wilted and bright green. Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt completely into the sauce, creating a creamy texture.

            Combine Pasta and Chicken: Return the sautéed chicken to the skillet and add the drained penne pasta. Gently mix everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the creamy sauce. Drizzle the lemon juice over the dish, enhancing the flavors with a touch of brightness.

              Taste and Adjust: Take a moment to taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or a splash of lemon juice for extra zing.

                Serve: Once everything is combined and heated through, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish your dish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve the creamy chicken and spinach skillet pasta warm, and enjoy a comforting meal!

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 30 mins | 4 servings