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Discover the perfect weeknight dinner with this Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Skillet. This dish combines tender chicken, fresh spinach, and penne pasta in a rich and velvety cream sauce that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Ideal for busy families or anyone looking to whip up a delicious meal in under 30 minutes, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. Let’s dive into the ingredients, preparation steps, and the beauty of this comforting dish.

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Skillet

Experience the ultimate weeknight meal with this Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Skillet. This delicious dish features tender chicken, fresh spinach, and creamy penne pasta that come together in under 30 minutes. With a rich sauce made from heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, every bite is satisfying and full of flavor. Perfect for busy families, this recipe is easy to prepare and will quickly become a favorite at your dinner table. Enjoy cooking and create memorable meals!
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Ingredients
  

12 ounces penne pasta

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced

2 tablespoons olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

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

    Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the diced chicken and season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

      Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

        Add Spinach: Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until wilted.

          Make the Cream Sauce: Lower the heat to medium-low, then pour in the heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Allow it to simmer for about 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.

            Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then add the cooked penne pasta. Stir everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach the desired creaminess. Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well incorporated.

              Taste and Adjust: Taste the pasta and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.

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

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 30 mins | Serves 4