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- 8 ounces fettuccine or linguine - 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth - 1 cup heavy cream - 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning - 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) - 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese - Salt and pepper to taste

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Skillet Pasta

Indulge in Creamy Chicken and Spinach Skillet Pasta, a comforting one-pan meal that's both quick and delicious. Tender chicken and fresh spinach come together in a rich, creamy sauce, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special family gatherings. With minimal prep and cleanup, this dish is not only flavorful but also nutritious, packed with protein and vitamins. Discover how easy it is to whip up a satisfying meal that everyone will love!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz (225 g) fettuccine or linguine pasta

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

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)

1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream

1 cup (about 80 g) fresh spinach leaves, roughly chopped

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving

Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the fettuccine or linguine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving a splash of pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce.

    Sauté the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced chicken, seasoning it generously with salt and black pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown on the outside and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

      Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer.

        Create the Creamy Base: Stir in the heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well and allow the sauce to simmer for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.

          Incorporate the Spinach: Add the chopped fresh spinach to the skillet, stirring it into the sauce. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the spinach is wilted and vibrant.

            Combine Everything: Return the cooked chicken back to the skillet. Gently fold in the drained pasta to the mixture, ensuring that each piece of pasta and chicken is beautifully coated with the creamy sauce.

              Finish with Cheese: Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts and adds richness to the sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary with additional salt and pepper.

                Serve: Transfer the creamy chicken and spinach pasta to plates or a serving bowl. If you're feeling fancy, garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and savor the delightful flavors!

                  Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4