Ingredients
Scale
- 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
Instructions
- 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.
- 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.
- 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 until melted and the sauce thickens. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
- 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 evenly.
- Add the cooked penne pasta into the skillet, tossing gently to coat with the sauce. Serve hot, optionally garnished with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs.
Notes
- Use fresh spinach for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust the amount of cream and cheese to reach your preferred sauce consistency.
- For a healthier option, substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt or coconut milk.
- For extra richness, add cooked bacon bits or sautéed mushrooms.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Diet: Nut-Free, Vegetarian Option (with modifications)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (about 1/4 of recipe)
- Calories: 550 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 32 g
- Saturated Fat: 16 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 48 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg