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Once your pasta is cooked and drained, it’s time to combine it with the creamy chicken and spinach sauce. To ensure an even coating of sauce on the pasta, follow these techniques:

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Skillet Pasta

Discover the ultimate weeknight meal with creamy chicken and spinach skillet pasta, a delicious one-pan wonder that's quick and satisfying. Perfectly cooked penne pasta mingles with tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and a rich cream sauce, making dinner a breeze. With minimal cleanup and a wholesome flavor profile, this dish is ideal for families and impressing guests alike. Whip it up in just 30 minutes for a comforting dinner everyone will love.
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Ingredients
  

8 oz (225g) penne pasta

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

Salt and pepper to taste

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1 cup (240ml) chicken broth

1 cup (240ml) heavy cream

3 cups fresh spinach

1 cup (100g) grated Parmesan cheese

1 tablespoon lemon juice

Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

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

    Sauté Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

      Add Garlic and Seasoning: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and Italian seasoning. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

        Create the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for about 3-4 minutes, letting it reduce slightly.

          Incorporate Spinach and Cheese: Add the fresh spinach to the skillet, stirring well until wilted. Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and thicken the sauce.

            Combine Pasta and Chicken: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, and add the drained penne pasta. Mix everything together until the pasta is well-coated in the creamy sauce. Squeeze lemon juice over the mixture for brightness and balance.

              Taste and Adjust: Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if desired.

                Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil leaves if using. Serve warm and enjoy your creamy chicken and spinach skillet pasta!

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