Description
Creamy Chicken Spinach Penne is a delightful and satisfying dish that combines tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and perfectly cooked penne pasta in a rich, creamy sauce. Ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions, this flavorful meal comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a favorite among families. The harmonious blend of garlic, onion, and Parmesan cheese creates a deliciously enticing flavor profile that appeals to both kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s easily customizable—feel free to add your favorite vegetables or switch up the pasta type!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10-ounce) package frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 1 lb penne pasta
- Pinch of nutmeg
Instructions
- Cook penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Season the chicken with salt and pepper and sauté until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet.
- Add chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Add thawed spinach and cook for 2 minutes.
- Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream; bring to a simmer and cook until slightly thickened.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese, then add cooked penne pasta and chicken back into the skillet. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water if needed to adjust sauce thickness.
- Serve immediately with extra Parmesan cheese on top.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 80mg