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- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 8 ounces fettuccine or penne pasta - 2 cups fresh spinach, washed and chopped - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 cup chicken broth - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - 1 medium onion, diced - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Skillet

Discover the delightful Creamy Chicken & Spinach Pasta Skillet, a comforting one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights. With tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a rich cream sauce, this recipe brings together flavors and nutrition effortlessly. It's quick to prepare, easy to clean up, and packed with essential nutrients from fresh ingredients. Enjoy a satisfying dinner that the whole family will love, while also making mealtime moments special.
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Ingredients
  

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes

8 ounces pasta (fettuccine or penne recommended)

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 cloves garlic, finely minced

1 medium onion, diced

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

4 cups fresh spinach leaves

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup chicken broth

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning blend

Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until just al dente. Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water. Drain the pasta and set aside.

    Sauté the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the cubed chicken. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté the chicken pieces for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are cooked through and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

      Cook the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the diced onion. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and halved cherry tomatoes, and continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the tomatoes start to soften and release their juices.

        Add Spinach: Add the fresh spinach to the skillet, tossing it with the onion and tomato mixture. Sauté until the spinach is wilted and vibrant, which should take about 2 minutes.

          Make the Cream Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for 3-5 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens, stirring occasionally.

            Combine Everything: Return the sautéed chicken back into the skillet. Add the drained pasta to the mixture, tossing everything together until evenly coated. If the sauce appears too thick, gradually stir in some reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

              Finish with Cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until it melts into the sauce and creates a creamy texture. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and freshly ground pepper as needed.

                Serve: Transfer your creamy chicken and spinach pasta to a serving platter or serve directly from the skillet for a cozy presentation. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your delicious meal!

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