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Chicken and Spinach Pasta

Chicken and Spinach Pasta

Chicken and Spinach Pasta is a quick, flavorful, and nourishing meal blending tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and comforting pasta. Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe offers a balanced mix of protein, greens, and carbs, perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you crave a wholesome and satisfying dish.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into bite-sized pieces
  • 4 cups fresh spinach, washed
  • 8 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your choice)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Start by slicing the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and washing the fresh spinach. Mince the garlic finely and measure out all other ingredients for seamless cooking.
  2. Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot, then add your choice of pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside, reserving a cup of the pasta water.
  3. Sauté the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, seasoning with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Add Garlic and Spinach: Reduce heat slightly and add minced garlic to the skillet, cooking briefly until fragrant. Toss the fresh spinach in batches until wilted, mixing well with the chicken.
  5. Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, stirring gently. Pour in a little reserved pasta water for moisture, then sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
  6. Final Touches: Stir well to combine all flavors and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately while warm and fragrant.

Notes

  • Use fresh spinach for the best texture and flavor.
  • Don’t overcook the chicken to keep it juicy and tender.
  • Reserve pasta water to loosen the sauce naturally and bind ingredients together.
  • Add cheese last so it melts perfectly without clumping.
  • Season gradually and taste as you go for balanced flavor.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Gluten Free (when gluten-free pasta is used)

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 400 mg
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 45 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 35 g
  • Cholesterol: 85 mg

Keywords: Chicken, spinach, pasta, quick meal, healthy, weeknight dinner, Italian, one-pan, easy recipe