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In the fast-paced world we live in, one-pot meals have gained immense popularity for their convenience and ease of preparation. They not only save time on cooking and cleaning but also allow for a harmonious blend of flavors and textures in a single dish. Among these culinary gems, the Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Skillet stands out as a comforting and quick dinner option that pleases both the palate and the mind. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Skillet

Experience the comfort of home-cooked meals with this Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Skillet. Perfect for busy weeknights, this one-pot recipe combines tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and rich cream sauce with al dente penne pasta. Enjoy a delightful mix of flavors and textures that is not only easy to prepare but also nutritious. With quick cooking steps and customizable options, it’s a dish that will please the whole family. Dive into this creamy delight and make mealtime special!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz (225 g) penne pasta

1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

2 cups fresh spinach, washed and roughly chopped

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup chicken broth

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 small onion, diced

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

Optional: Red pepper flakes for extra heat

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta:

    - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta, reserving a small cup of the pasta water for later use, and set it aside.

      Sauté the Chicken:

        - In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes or until the onion is translucent and the garlic is aromatic.

          - Add the chicken pieces to the skillet. Season them with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken for 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until it is cooked through and no longer pink in the center, getting a nice golden-brown exterior.

            Add Cream and Spinach:

              - Pour the heavy cream and chicken broth into the skillet, stirring to combine all ingredients. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

                - Once simmering, stir in the chopped spinach and let it cook for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the spinach to wilt and integrate into the creamy sauce.

                  Combine with Pasta:

                    - Add the cooked penne pasta directly to the skillet. Toss everything gently to ensure the pasta is thoroughly coated in the delicious creamy sauce. If the sauce appears too thick, gradually incorporate a splash of the reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.

                      Cheese It Up:

                        - Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it is melted and fully incorporated into the dish. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper, if necessary.

                          Serve:

                            - Serve the creamy chicken and spinach pasta while hot. For an appealing presentation, garnish with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese and a pinch of red pepper flakes for those who enjoy some spice.

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