Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This creamy chicken and spinach pasta recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It’s a simple yet delicious dish that’s packed with protein and flavor, making it a fantastic choice for a healthy and satisfying dinner. This easy recipe is perfect for homemade cooking enthusiasts of all skill levels, from beginners to experienced cooks. Get ready to enjoy a quick dinner idea that's sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 8 ounces pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 10 ounces frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for a touch of spice
Instructions:
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Cook the Pasta: Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
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Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
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Sauté Vegetables: Add onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Create the Creamy Sauce: Stir in spinach, cream cheese, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Cook, stirring constantly, until the cream cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
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Combine Everything: Add the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat everything evenly in the creamy sauce.
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Season and Serve: Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Add red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious homemade meal!
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little water to the sauce.
- Feel free to add other vegetables to this recipe, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.
- To make this a complete meal, add a side salad or some crusty bread.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken Pasta: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Sun-dried Tomato Chicken Pasta: Add 1/4 cup of sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed, drained) to the sauce for a burst of Mediterranean flavor.
- Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta: Substitute pesto for the cream cheese and heavy cream for a fresh and vibrant twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This delicious and easy recipe is perfect for a healthy meal that won't take up too much of your precious time. Enjoy your homemade creamy chicken and spinach pasta! This is one of the best recipes for a quick and satisfying dinner, perfect for busy weeknights. It's a great example of easy recipes and healthy meals that are surprisingly delicious.