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When it comes to weeknight dinners, finding a recipe that is both comforting and satisfying can sometimes feel like a daunting task. Enter Creamy Chicken and Spinach Skillet Pasta, a dish that effortlessly combines rich flavors with a nutritious profile, making it a beloved choice for families and busy individuals alike. This one-pan meal not only simplifies your cooking process but also offers a delightful medley of taste and texture that is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Skillet Pasta

Looking for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner? Try this Creamy Chicken and Spinach Skillet Pasta! This one-pan meal combines tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and creamy sauce over perfectly cooked penne, all ready in under 30 minutes. Packed with nutrients and bursting with flavor, it's perfect for busy families. Enjoy a comforting dish that's easy to make and sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Dive into a bowl of deliciousness tonight!
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Ingredients
  

12 oz (340g) penne pasta

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

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 garlic cloves, minced

1 small onion, finely chopped

4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup low-sodium chicken broth

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Red pepper flakes (optional, for added spice)

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring generously 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, reserving about 1 cup of the pasta water for later use. Set the pasta aside.

    Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the diced chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the hot skillet in a single layer and cook for approximately 6-7 minutes, or until golden brown and fully cooked. Use a spoon to turn the chicken occasionally for even cooking. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

      Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent the garlic from burning.

        Add Spinach: Gradually stir in the chopped spinach and cook until it wilts down, which should take about 2 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to combine with the onion and garlic.

          Create the Sauce: Carefully pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then add the Italian seasoning, along with salt and pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.

            Combine Everything: Return the cooked penne pasta and the sautéed chicken to the skillet. Toss everything together gently, adding in the reserved pasta water a little at a time until the desired creaminess is reached.

              Cheesy Finish: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce and everything is well incorporated. Taste the dish and adjust seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes according to your preference.

                Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve the creamy chicken and spinach pasta hot and savor each delicious bite!

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

                    Feel free to enjoy this hearty dish that combines simplicity with sophisticated flavors!