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- 8 ounces of pasta (penne or fettuccine work well) - 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 2 cups of fresh spinach, roughly chopped - 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved - 1 medium onion, diced - 3 cloves of garlic, minced - 1 cup of chicken broth - 1 cup of heavy cream - 2 tablespoons of olive oil - Salt and pepper to taste - Grated Parmesan cheese for serving - Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Skillet Pasta

Get ready for a weeknight dinner winner with this Creamy Chicken and Spinach Skillet Pasta! This one-pan meal is quick, nutritious, and bursting with flavor. Tender chicken, fresh spinach, and al dente pasta come together in a rich, creamy sauce that turns dinner into a delightful experience. Perfect for families, this dish is not only delicious but also a great way to sneak in some greens. Discover the balance of flavors and textures that will make this a staple in your home.

Ingredients
  

12 oz penne pasta

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced

2 cups fresh spinach, washed and chopped

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 medium onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup chicken broth

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1 teaspoon paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

    Sauté Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Sauté until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

      Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant and the onion is translucent.

        Make the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to deglaze. Add the heavy cream and Italian seasoning, stirring until combined. Bring to a gentle simmer.

          Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta, sautéed chicken, chopped spinach, and halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Toss everything together and let it simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes, until the spinach has wilted and everything is heated through.

            Finish the Dish: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the creamy sauce. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

              Serve: Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.

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