A hearty and flavorful pasta dish combining tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a creamy garlic sauce for a satisfying meal.
Author:Beth
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:20 minutes
Total Time:30 minutes
Yield:4 servings 1x
Category:Main Course
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:Italian-American
Diet:Low Lactose
Ingredients
Scale
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Salt and pepper, to taste
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
8 ounces penne or your favorite pasta
4 cups fresh spinach
1/2 cup pasta water (reserved)
Instructions
Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water.
While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper and cook until golden and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese and cook until the sauce slightly thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet, then toss in the spinach. Stir until wilted.
Add the drained pasta to the sauce, mixing well. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to reach desired sauce consistency.
Serve warm with extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Notes
Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker meal prep.
Substitute spinach with kale or arugula for variation.
Add sun-dried tomatoes or mushrooms for extra flavor.