Creamy Chicken Spinach Pasta Recipe

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This creamy chicken spinach pasta is a quick and delicious meal that’s loaded with tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a luscious garlic-Parmesan sauce.

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

  • 12 oz (350g) pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)

For the Chicken:

  • 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Sauce:

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1/2 cup chicken stock
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnishing:

  • Extra Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh parsley or basil, chopped

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta
    • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain.
  2. Cook the Chicken
    • Season the chicken with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
    • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and fully cooked (about 6-8 minutes). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Make the Sauce
    • In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
    • Reduce the heat to medium and stir in the heavy cream, chicken stock, and Parmesan cheese. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring, until the sauce thickens slightly.
  4. Add Spinach and Chicken
    • Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce.
    • Season with red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
  5. Combine with Pasta
    • Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine. Use reserved pasta water a few tablespoons at a time to loosen the sauce if needed.
  6. Serve
    • Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley or basil.

Tips

  • Swap heavy cream for a lighter option like milk with a bit of flour or cornstarch for thickness.
  • Add mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
  • Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to fit your dietary needs.

Enjoy this creamy and comforting chicken spinach pasta!

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