Creamy Chicken Spinach Penne: Your New Favorite Comfort Food!

Creamy Chicken Spinach Penne: Your New Favorite Comfort Food! 🍝✨

1. Introduction

If you’re searching for a delicious and satisfying meal that combines tender chicken, nutritious spinach, and creamy sauce, look no further than this Creamy Chicken Spinach Penne recipe. This comforting chicken pasta dish is easy to make and perfect for busy weeknights when you crave a hearty, flavorful meal. Whether you’re a pasta enthusiast or just seeking a simple dinner idea, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household. Not only is it simple to prepare, but it also offers a rich and creamy texture that everyone will love.

2. Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Spinach Penne

• 12 oz (340 g) penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-size pieces
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: red pepper flakes for a bit of heat

3. How to Make Creamy Chicken Spinach Penne — Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and thicken the sauce. Season with additional salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.

Step 4: Add Spinach and Chicken

Mix the chopped spinach into the sauce and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to combine everything evenly.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Serve

Add the cooked penne pasta into the skillet, tossing gently to coat the pasta with the creamy sauce. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs if preferred.

4. Tips for Perfect Creamy Chicken Spinach Penne

• Use fresh spinach for the best flavor and texture.
• Adjust the cream and cheese amounts to suit your preferred sauce thickness.
• For a healthier twist, substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt or coconut milk.
• For added richness, toss in some cooked bacon bits or sautéed mushrooms.

5. Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.

6. Serving Suggestions for Creamy Chicken Spinach Penne

This creamy chicken pasta pairs beautifully with a side of fresh vegetable salad or garlic bread. For an extra touch, sprinkle with additional Parmesan or chopped fresh basil.

7. Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Chicken Spinach Penne

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and more forgiving. Just cook them thoroughly and proceed with the recipe as directed.

Is there a dairy-free option?

Yes, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream. Use dairy-free cheese alternatives if desired for a vegan twist.

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

Most of the prep work takes about 10 minutes, with a cooking time of approximately 20 minutes. Overall, you can have this delightful comforting chicken pasta ready in under 30 minutes.

8. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

• CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set — Make cooking and cleaning a breeze with this durable, nonstick cookware, perfect for sautéing and simmering your creamy sauce. It enhances your cooking experience and ensures even heat distribution.
• Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master — Quickly chop spinach and garlic using this versatile vegetable prep tool, saving time and effort in meal prep.
• Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker — For an easy, hands-off approach, you can cook the chicken or prepare a meal in advance using this slow cooker.

9. Conclusion

In summary, Creamy Chicken Spinach Penne is an incredible comfort food that combines tender chicken, nutritious spinach, and a rich, savory sauce all served with perfectly cooked penne pasta. Its simple preparation makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or weekend dinners. Don’t hesitate to customize the recipe with your favorite ingredients or dietary preferences. Dive into this irresistible dish and elevate your pasta night to a whole new level!

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