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In the realm of weeknight dinners, few dishes can rival the comforting allure of a creamy pasta dish. The Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Skillet is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that appeals to both busy families and home cooks looking for a satisfying meal without the fuss. This one-pan wonder not only offers a rich and velvety texture but also balances the hearty essence of chicken with the freshness of spinach, creating a dish that is as nutritious as it is delicious.

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Skillet

Discover the ultimate weeknight meal with this Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Skillet! This easy one-pan recipe showcases tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and perfectly cooked penne, all enveloped in a rich and creamy sauce. With minimal prep and cleanup, it's perfect for busy nights. Enjoy a comforting, healthy dish that the whole family will love, packed with nutrients and bursting with flavor. Bring this delightful meal to your dinner table tonight!
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Ingredients
  

300g (10.5 oz) penne pasta

2 tablespoons olive oil

500g (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper, to taste

150g (5 oz) fresh spinach leaves

250ml (1 cup) heavy cream

100g (3.5 oz) cream cheese, softened

50g (1.5 oz) grated Parmesan cheese

Zest and juice of 1 lemon

Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (typically around 8-10 minutes). Before draining, reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water for later use. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

    Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil until shimmering. Add the diced chicken to the skillet, ensuring it's seasoned with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken for approximately 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned and thoroughly cooked. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.

      Cook Garlic and Spinach: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant (be cautious not to burn it). Next, add the fresh spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the spinach is wilted and vibrant green.

        Create the Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium. Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and add the softened cream cheese. Stir continuously until the cream cheese has fully melted and smoothly mixed into the heavy cream, forming a creamy sauce. If the sauce appears too thick, gradually incorporate some of the reserved pasta water, stirring until you reach your desired consistency.

          Combine Ingredients: Reintroduce the cooked chicken to the skillet, followed by the drained penne pasta. Stir everything together until the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce. Add in the grated Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Taste the dish and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

            Serve: Once everything is heated through and combined beautifully, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish generously with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

              Enjoy: Serve immediately while the dish is hot and enjoy your richly flavorful Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Skillet!

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

                  - Presentation Tips: For an appealing presentation, serve the pasta in shallow bowls. Finish with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and a light drizzle of olive oil.