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The foundation of any great dish often lies in the aromatics. In this Creamy Chicken and Spinach Skillet Pasta recipe, sautéing onions and garlic is crucial for building depth of flavor. Start by heating olive oil in your skillet over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add finely chopped onions, allowing them to soften and become translucent—this usually takes about 3-4 minutes. The natural sweetness of the onions will enhance the overall taste profile of the dish.

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Skillet Pasta

Savor the comforting flavors of Creamy Chicken and Spinach Skillet Pasta, a dish perfect for any night. This recipe combines juicy chicken, nutritious spinach, and al dente pasta in a rich, creamy sauce, creating a satisfying meal that’s both simple and indulgent. Ideal for busy evenings, it requires minimal prep and cleanup. Enjoy a wholesome dinner that your family will love, all made in one skillet for easy cooking and even easier cleanup.
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Ingredients
  

12 ounces pasta (penne or fusilli recommended)

1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 small onion, finely chopped

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

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup chicken broth

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust according to taste)

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente, usually 8-10 minutes. Before draining, reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water. Drain the pasta and set aside.

    Sauté the Chicken: In a large, deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the diced chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is browned and no longer pink in the center. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

      Cook the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion is translucent and aromatic.

        Add Spinach: Stir in the fresh spinach, cooking for about 2 minutes, or until it has wilted down. If using thawed frozen spinach, ensure it is drained well before adding it to the skillet.

          Create the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Add the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes, then allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer, letting the flavors meld together.

            Combine Pasta and Chicken: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, followed by the drained pasta. Toss everything together, and gradually add some of the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you achieve your desired sauce consistency.

              Finish the Dish: Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts into the sauce, creating a rich and creamy texture. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.

                Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. If desired, garnish your dish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy your delightful creamy chicken and spinach skillet pasta!

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