Creamy Chicken and Spinach Penne

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Penne

Introduction

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Penne is a delicious pasta dish that brings together tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a rich, creamy sauce. It’s a delightful meal that you can make quickly and enjoy with your family.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. It’s simple to prepare, and it packs a lot of flavor. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some greens for a healthier meal.

How to Make Creamy Chicken and Spinach Penne

Ingredients

  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 2 chicken breasts, cut into strips
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

  1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

  2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken strips and cook until golden and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

  3. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

  4. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing it to a simmer. Lower the heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

  5. Add the cooked penne pasta, chicken, and fresh spinach to the sauce. Stir until well combined and the spinach wilts, about 2-3 minutes.

  6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Spinach Penne

Serve this dish warm, topped with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese if you like. It goes great with a side salad or some garlic bread.

How to Store Creamy Chicken and Spinach Penne

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet or microwave until heated through.

Tips to Make Creamy Chicken and Spinach Penne

  • Make sure to cook the chicken fully until it is no longer pink inside.
  • You can add more garlic if you love its flavor!
  • If the sauce is too thick, add a little more chicken broth or cream.

Variation (If Any)

You can add other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for more flavor and nutrition. You can also substitute the chicken for shrimp if you prefer seafood.

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat penne?
Yes, whole wheat penne will work just fine and add more fiber.

Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?
You can use low-fat cream and less cheese for a lighter version of the dish.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Just skip the chicken and add more veggies like zucchini or broccoli to make it vegetarian.

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