Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Recipe

 


This Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta is a delicious and comforting dish packed with tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a rich, creamy sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion!

🕒 Prep Time: 15 minutes

🔥 Cook Time: 25 minutes

🍽 Servings: 4


🛒 Ingredients

For the Pasta:

  • 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, fettuccine, or rotini)
  • 1 tsp salt (for boiling water)

For the Chicken:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced into bite-sized pieces)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Creamy Sauce:

  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 4 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups fresh spinach (roughly chopped)
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)

For Garnishing:

  • Extra Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh parsley (chopped)

👨‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
  3. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

  1. Season the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
  2. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
  3. Add the chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked.
  4. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

  1. In the same pan, reduce heat to medium and add 2 tbsp butter.
  2. Sauté garlic for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
  3. Pour in chicken broth and let it simmer for 2 minutes to enhance the flavor.
  4. Stir in heavy cream and Italian seasoning, letting it cook for another 2 minutes.
  5. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
  6. Toss in fresh spinach, allowing it to wilt in the sauce (about 1-2 minutes).
  7. Sprinkle in red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat).

Step 4: Combine Everything

  1. Return the cooked chicken to the pan and stir to coat it with the creamy sauce.
  2. Add the drained pasta, tossing everything together until fully coated in the sauce.
  3. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to blend all the flavors.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
  2. Pair it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

💡 Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add sun-dried tomatoes or mushrooms to the sauce.
For a protein boost, mix in cooked bacon or shrimp.
Make it healthier by using whole wheat pasta and light cream.
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta.

This Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta is rich, flavorful, and super satisfying.  🍗🥬🍝


YT Channel: Infinite Curiosity


Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Chicken and Sweet Potato Chowder recipe

🥩 Kyufte – Bulgarian Grilled Meatballs Recipe

🌶️ Ema Datshi (Chili Cheese Stew)