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If you're looking for a meal that strikes the perfect balance between comfort and elegance, look no further than the Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Skillet. This dish not only tantalizes the taste buds with its rich flavors and creamy texture but also brings a sense of warmth and satisfaction to your dining table. With tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and perfectly cooked pasta all enveloped in a luscious sauce, this recipe is bound to become a family favorite.

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Skillet

Indulge in the delightful Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Skillet, a perfect blend of comfort and elegance for any meal. This one-skillet recipe features tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and perfectly cooked pasta all enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, it's simple to prepare and full of flavor. With nutrient-packed ingredients and a balance of textures, this dish will quickly become a family favorite that everyone will love.
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Ingredients
  

8 oz (about 225g) pasta (penne or farfalle works great)

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 lb (about 450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed

Salt and pepper, to taste

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1 cup (240ml) chicken broth

1 cup (240ml) heavy cream

2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped

1 cup (100g) grated Parmesan cheese

Zest of 1 lemon

Juice of 1 lemon

Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water.

    Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Add the cubed chicken, seasoning with salt and pepper, and cook for about 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

      Add Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and Italian seasoning. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

        Make the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, letting it cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until slightly thickened.

          Incorporate Spinach: Add the chopped spinach to the skillet, cooking until wilted, about 2 minutes.

            Combine Everything: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then add the drained pasta. Toss to combine, adding in some of the reserved pasta water if the dish seems dry. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice for an extra zing. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

              Serve: Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious creamy chicken and spinach pasta!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings