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When it comes to weeknight dinners, few dishes can rival the ease and satisfaction of a one-skillet meal. Enter the Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Skillet—a harmonious blend of tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and al dente pasta enveloped in a luscious, creamy sauce. This dish not only delights the palate with its rich flavors and textures but also streamlines the cooking process, making it an ideal choice for busy families and professionals alike.

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Skillet

Looking for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner? Try this Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Skillet! This one-skillet meal combines tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and al dente pasta in a rich, creamy sauce, making it perfect for busy families. The addition of fresh tomatoes adds sweetness and nutrients. Easy to make, healthy, and satisfying, this dish is guaranteed to impress both kids and adults. Discover the joy of cooking with this delightful recipe!

Ingredients
  

8 oz fettuccine or your favorite pasta

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

4 cups fresh spinach, packed

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring water seasoned with salt to a rolling boil. Add the fettuccine and cook following the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Once cooked, drain the pasta and reserve ½ cup of the pasta water for later use.

    Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Allow the chicken to cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it's golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

      Sauté the Garlic and Vegetables: Using the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds or until it becomes fragrant. Then, add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften.

        Add the Spinach: Incorporate the fresh spinach into the skillet, stirring until it wilts down, which should take about 2 minutes.

          Prepare the Cream Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Pour in the heavy cream, then gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Continue mixing until the cheese has melted completely and the sauce has a smooth, creamy consistency. If the sauce appears too thick, gradually mix in the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired texture.

            Combine Everything: Add the sautéed chicken back into the skillet, followed by the drained fettuccine. Gently toss all the ingredients together until the pasta and chicken are thoroughly coated in the creamy sauce and everything is heated through.

              Serve: Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. For an extra touch of freshness, garnish with basil leaves before serving. Enjoy your meal while it's hot!

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