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In today's fast-paced world, one-pot meals have become a staple for busy home cooks seeking convenience without sacrificing flavor or nutrition. The allure of a dish that combines all the essential components of a balanced meal—protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates—into one easy-to-manage recipe is undeniable. Among these culinary gems, Creamy Chicken and Spinach Skillet Pasta stands out as an exceptional choice. This dish not only offers a quick and satisfying solution for family dinners but also packs a nutritious punch that appeals to health-conscious eaters.

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Skillet Pasta

Discover the joy of quick and delicious meals with Creamy Chicken and Spinach Skillet Pasta, a perfect one-pot wonder for busy home cooks. This dish combines tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and pasta in a rich creamy sauce, making it ideal for family dinners or meal prep. Packed with nutrients, it features lean protein, essential vitamins, and whole grains. Whip this up for a satisfying, wholesome meal that everyone will love—your new go-to weeknight recipe!
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Ingredients
  

12 ounces of pasta (penne or fusilli recommended)

1 pound of chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

2 tablespoons of olive oil

3 cloves of garlic, minced

1 small onion, finely chopped

4 cups of fresh spinach (or 2 cups of frozen spinach, thawed and drained)

1 cup of heavy cream

1 cup of chicken broth

1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning

½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes (adjust for spice preference)

½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once done, reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water, drain the rest, and set the pasta aside.

    Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the diced chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Place the chicken in the skillet and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked. Once finished, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

      Cook the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the finely chopped onion and the minced garlic. Sauté for approximately 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, stirring occasionally to avoid burning.

        Add Spinach: Introduce the fresh spinach to the skillet and stir-fry until it wilts, about 2 minutes. If using frozen spinach, ensure it is completely thawed and drained before adding it to the pan.

          Create the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring until well combined. Add the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer to allow the flavors to meld.

            Combine Pasta and Chicken: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the drained pasta. Gently mix all ingredients together, adding a little reserved pasta water as needed to achieve your preferred sauce consistency.

              Finish the Dish: Incorporate the grated Parmesan cheese into the skillet, stirring continuously until it melts and creates a creamy sauce. Taste and adjust with additional salt and pepper as necessary.

                Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. If desired, garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve the creamy chicken and spinach skillet pasta warm, and relish your delicious creation!

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | Serves 4-6