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If you're searching for a comforting dish that combines rich flavors and a burst of nutrition, look no further than the Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Skillet. This delightful recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you're short on time but still want to serve up something that feels gourmet. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity; it brings together tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and a luscious cream sauce enveloping perfectly cooked pasta, creating a meal that satisfies both the palate and the stomach.

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Skillet

Discover the ultimate comfort food for your busy weeknights with this Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Skillet. This simple yet gourmet recipe combines tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and a rich cream sauce enveloping perfectly cooked penne pasta. In under 30 minutes, you can create a nourishing meal that satisfies everyone at the table. With its versatility and wholesome ingredients, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the creamy goodness tonight!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz (225 g) penne pasta

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 pound (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper, to taste

2 cups fresh spinach, chopped

1 cup heavy cream

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (optional)

Fresh basil, for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water.

    Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Add the diced chicken, season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for 6-8 minutes until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

      Cook the Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it.

        Add Spinach: Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until it wilts, about 2-3 minutes.

          Create the Cream Sauce: Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer, then add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until the desired consistency is reached.

            Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet. Stir in the drained penne pasta and, if using, the chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Mix well to combine all ingredients and coat the pasta with the creamy sauce.

              Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings