Chicken and Spinach Skillet Pasta is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, fresh spinach, and creamy, cheesy flavors into a one-pan wonder. This recipe is not only quick and easy but also comforting, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a lazy weekend. The vibrant colors and aromatic spices make this dish as visually appealing as it is delicious, warming the heart and soul. Follow this step-by-step guide to create your own delicious Chicken and Spinach Skillet Pasta that your family will love.
Ingredients
To make this satisfying meal, gather the following ingredients that bring together flavors and textures:
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: This lush oil adds richness and depth to the dish.
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts: Cut into 1-inch pieces, these juicy morsels provide protein and substance.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds a delightful aromatic note.
- Salt and freshly ground pepper: Essential for enhancing the dish’s overall flavor.
- 1 cup diced onion: The sweet, aromatic base of your sauce, bringing a touch of sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic: Pungent and fragrant, it elevates the dish with its delicious essence.
- 2 ½ cups low sodium chicken broth: This flavorful liquid creates a savory sauce without overpowering the other ingredients.
- 14.5-ounce can fire roasted diced tomatoes: Smoky and slightly sweet, these tomatoes add a vibrant pop of color.
- 8 ounces penne pasta (uncooked): The pasta serves as the perfect vehicle for holding the creamy sauce and flavors.
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper: For a touch of heat, adjust to your taste.
- ½ cup half and half: Creamy richness that brings a luscious texture.
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded): This melty cheese creates that indulgent, gooey finish.
- 5 ounces fresh baby spinach: Bright and nutritious, it adds color and a slight earthiness.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: A finishing touch, providing a salty note and a crispy texture on top.
Step-by-Step Directions
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Cook the Chicken: In a deep 12-inch skillet or sauté pan, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once heated, add the chopped chicken pieces. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the chicken is cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and cover it to keep warm.
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Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and then the diced onions. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until they soften and turn lightly golden. Next, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
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Combine Broth and Pasta: Pour in the chicken broth and fire-roasted tomatoes. Stir in the uncooked penne pasta, along with crushed red pepper, salt, and pepper. Combine everything well. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, bring everything to a boil, then cover the skillet. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
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Add Cream and Cheese: Stir in the half and half and shredded mozzarella cheese. Allow everything to simmer for another minute or two until warmed through and the cheese has melted beautifully.
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Incorporate Spinach: Remove the skillet from the heat and mix in the fresh baby spinach. Toss until it wilts gently from the heat of the pasta. Finally, finish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for that extra touch of flavor.
Tips & Tricks
- Use fresh herbs: For an extra flavor boost, try adding fresh basil or rosemary along with the Italian seasoning.
- Customize the heat: Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper depending on your heat tolerance.
- Make it cheesy: For more cheese pull, consider increasing the amount of mozzarella, or try adding provolone or fontina for a different flavor.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Serve your Chicken and Spinach Skillet Pasta with a light side salad or garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce. It’s also delicious with a glass of refreshing iced tea or a light white wine, perfect for a gathering or family dinner.
Nutritional Information
This Chicken and Spinach Skillet Pasta recipe serves approximately 4 people. Each serving contains about 500 calories, consisting of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. It’s a balanced meal that fuels your body without compromising on flavor. Enjoying it as part of a balanced diet, along with plenty of vegetables and whole grains, ensures you’re both satisfied and healthy.
Storing Tips & Variations
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water or broth to maintain the creamy consistency. This dish also freezes well, lasting up to a month in the freezer. For variations, feel free to substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein experience. You can also add mushrooms or bell peppers for more texture and flavor.
Conclusion
Are you ready to impress your family with this comforting Chicken and Spinach Skillet Pasta? The creamy texture, alongside the succulent chicken and fresh spinach, creates a delicious meal that is both satisfying and simple to prepare. Try this recipe out and experience the warmth it brings to your kitchen. Don’t forget to share your cooking experience and any variations you try!
FAQs
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Can I use whole wheat pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great option and adds extra fiber to the dish. -
What can I use instead of half and half?
You can use heavy cream for a richer sauce or milk for a lighter version. -
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes, the creamy sauce and pasta make it appealing to kids! Adjust the amount of red pepper to suit their tastes. -
Can I make this vegetarian?
Certainly! Substitute chicken with sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth. -
How long does it take to prepare?
This recipe takes approximately 30-40 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick weeknight meal option.
Chicken and Spinach Skillet Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- In a deep skillet, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
- Once heated, add the chopped chicken pieces, season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the chicken is cooked through.
- Transfer the chicken to a plate and cover it to keep warm.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and diced onions.
- Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until softened and lightly golden.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and fire-roasted tomatoes.
- Stir in the uncooked penne pasta, along with crushed red pepper, salt, and pepper.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and bring everything to a boil.
- Cover the skillet, reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until pasta is tender.
- Stir in the half and half and shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Allow everything to simmer for another minute or two until warmed through and cheese has melted.
- Remove the skillet from heat and mix in fresh baby spinach.
- Toss until spinach wilts gently from the heat.
- Finish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
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