Spinach Chicken Pasta (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
01 -
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb), cut into bite-sized pieces
02 -
2 tablespoons olive oil
03 -
3 cloves garlic, minced
04 -
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
05 -
1 cup heavy cream
06 -
1/2 cup chicken broth
07 -
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
08 -
4 cups fresh spinach (or 5-6 cups if using baby spinach)
09 -
12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your favorite)
10 -
Salt and pepper, to taste
11 -
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
12 -
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
13 -
Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
# Instructions:
01 -
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, drain, and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
02 -
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and dried basil. Add the chicken to the pan and cook for 5-7 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
03 -
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the minced garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for another 30 seconds.
04 -
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer, cooking for about 2-3 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.
05 -
Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until wilted.
06 -
Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet along with the pasta. Stir everything together to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
07 -
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and coat the pasta and chicken with the sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
08 -
Serve the pasta with a sprinkle of fresh chopped basil or parsley for a burst of color and fresh flavor.
# Notes:
01 -
Protein Options: You can substitute the chicken with shrimp, turkey, or even grilled tofu for a different protein.
02 -
Spinach Variations: If you don’t have fresh spinach, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before using it.
03 -
Extra Flavor: For added flavor, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving or a handful of sun-dried tomatoes.
04 -
Pasta Choices: This recipe works with almost any type of pasta, so feel free to use whatever you have on hand.