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In today's fast-paced world, finding delicious and quick meal solutions can be a challenge. Enter the Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Skillet—a comforting, one-pot dish that combines tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and al dente penne pasta in a rich and creamy sauce. This recipe not only caters to busy weeknights but also brings a burst of flavor and nutrition to your dinner table. Whether you are a novice cook or a seasoned chef, this dish is designed to satisfy your cravings while being easy to prepare.

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Skillet

Discover the delightful Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Skillet, the perfect solution for busy weeknights! This one-pot recipe combines tender chicken, fresh spinach, and flavorful penne pasta in a rich, creamy sauce that’s easy to prepare and irresistibly satisfying. With its balanced mix of protein, carbs, and healthy fats, this dish is not only a culinary treat but also packed with nutritional benefits. Elevate your dinner routine with this quick, delicious meal that the whole family will love!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz (about 225g) penne pasta

1 lb (450g) chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

2 cups fresh spinach, coarsely chopped

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 medium onion, diced

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup chicken broth

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and black pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Drain the pasta and set it aside for later use.

    Sauté the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced chicken breast to the skillet. Season it with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sauté the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is nicely browned and cooked through. After cooking, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

      Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook for approximately 3-4 minutes or until it becomes translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the tomatoes start to soften and release their juices.

        Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, and then add the chopped spinach. Stir and cook until the spinach wilts, which should take about 2 minutes.

          Make the Creamy Sauce: Pour the chicken broth into the skillet and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Gradually stir in the heavy cream, allowing it to mix thoroughly. Simmer this sauce for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until it slightly thickens, creating a luscious coating for the pasta.

            Incorporate Pasta: Carefully add the drained penne pasta and grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional 2 minutes on low heat to ensure everything is heated through. Taste and adjust the seasoning with extra salt and pepper, as needed.

              Serve and Garnish: Remove the skillet from heat. For an extra touch of freshness, garnish your creamy chicken and spinach pasta with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve hot and relish the delightful flavors of this comforting dish!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 min | 30 min | 4 servings