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When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the satisfying embrace of creamy pasta. Creamy Chicken and Spinach Skillet Pasta stands out not only for its rich textures and balanced flavors but also for its ability to bring families together at the dinner table. This dish offers a delightful blend of tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and luscious cream, all enveloped in perfectly cooked pasta. It’s an ideal recipe for busy weeknights when time is of the essence, yet it carries the elegance necessary to impress dinner guests on special occasions.

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Skillet Pasta

Discover the ultimate comfort meal with Creamy Chicken and Spinach Skillet Pasta! This delightful dish combines tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and a rich, creamy sauce that perfectly coats your favorite pasta. Ideal for busy weeknights or special gatherings, it’s easy to make and packed with flavor. Join us as we explore key ingredients, cooking techniques, and tips to create a wholesome meal that brings everyone together at the table. Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy family dinner!
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Ingredients
  

12 ounces pasta (penne or fusilli works best)

1 lb chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 small onion, finely chopped

4 cups fresh spinach (you can also use frozen, just thaw and drain it)

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup chicken broth

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil or parsley 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. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water and drain the rest. Set the pasta aside.

    Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the diced chicken with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

      Cook the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant.

        Add Spinach: Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. If using frozen spinach, make sure it's fully thawed and drained before adding.

          Create the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir to combine, then add Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

            Combine Pasta and Chicken: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the drained pasta. Mix everything together, adding a bit of the reserved pasta water as needed to reach your desired sauce consistency.

              Finish the Dish: Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and creamy. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.

                Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your creamy chicken and spinach skillet pasta!

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | Serves 4-6