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The foundation of any pasta dish rests on the quality of the pasta itself. For this recipe, you'll want to cook your pasta to al dente, meaning it should be firm to the bite. This texture is crucial as it allows the pasta to hold up against the creamy sauce without becoming mushy. Overcooking can lead to a soggy texture, which can detract from the overall experience of the dish.

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Skillet

Indulge in the comforting flavors of a Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Skillet! This easy one-pan meal features tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and a rich cream sauce that melds beautifully with your choice of pasta. Perfect for busy weeknights, it combines simplicity with nourishment, allowing fresh ingredients to shine through. With minimal cleanup and a crowd-pleasing taste, this dish is destined to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy a delightful, homemade meal that warms the heart!
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Ingredients
  

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces

Salt and pepper, to taste

4 cloves garlic, minced

8 ounces pasta (penne or fusilli work great)

3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (dried oregano, basil, and thyme mix)

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

    Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, season the diced chicken with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

      Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!

        Add Spinach and Tomatoes: Gradually add the chopped spinach and halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet, stirring until the spinach is wilted and the tomatoes start to soften, about 2-3 minutes.

          Make the Creamy Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes. Then, add the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce has thickened slightly.

            Combine Everything: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the drained pasta. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce.

              Serve: Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your deliciously creamy chicken and spinach pasta!

                Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4