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When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the creamy allure of a well-crafted pasta. Creamy pasta dishes have a unique way of wrapping you in warmth and satisfaction, evoking feelings of home and togetherness. One such dish that beautifully embodies this sentiment is Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also brimming with flavor and nutrition, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or special gatherings.

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta in 30 Minutes

Experience the comforting delight of Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta, a dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any occasion. This simple yet flavorful recipe features tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and fresh spinach enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce. Packed with nutrition, it's a perfect choice for busy weeknights or special gatherings. Dive into the creamy goodness and elevate your meal with this easy-to-follow guide that promises mouthwatering results. Perfect for all skill levels!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz (225g) fettuccine or spaghetti

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 pound (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

Salt and black pepper, to taste

3 cloves garlic, finely minced

1 cup (240ml) low-sodium chicken broth

1 cup (240ml) heavy cream

1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning

5 oz (140g) fresh baby spinach

½ cup (50g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta:

    In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the fettuccine or spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve about ½ cup of the starchy pasta water. Drain and set the pasta aside.

      Sauté the Chicken:

        Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and black pepper. Carefully add the chicken to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

          Prepare the Sauce:

            In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds, or until it becomes fragrant and slightly golden, being cautious not to burn it. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it reduce for about 2-3 minutes.

              Make it Creamy:

                Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Add the dried Italian seasoning and allow the sauce to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, until it thickens slightly and becomes creamy.

                  Add Spinach and Chicken:

                    Stir the fresh spinach into the sauce, followed by the cooked chicken. Continue to cook until the spinach has wilted down, about 1-2 minutes. If the sauce appears too thick, gradually stir in some of the reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.

                      Combine with Pasta:

                        Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet. Gently toss everything together to ensure that the pasta is well-coated in the creamy sauce. Finally, mix in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and fully incorporated. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

                          Serve:

                            Plate generous portions of the creamy chicken and spinach pasta, optionally garnishing with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy this comforting, delicious meal warm!

                              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 30 minutes | Serves 4