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Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Pasta: Any short pasta works great. While I love casarecce for its charm, penne or fusilli are just as good! If you’re avoiding gluten, try chickpea or brown rice pasta for a similar texture.

Chicken: Boneless skinless chicken breasts are perfect, but you can swap in thighs if you prefer dark meat. For a vegetarian option, use tofu or chickpeas instead for protein!

Spinach: Fresh spinach gives a nice texture, but frozen spinach is a good substitute too—just make sure to thaw and drain it well before use.

Heavy Cream: If you want to lighten it up, half-and-half or even coconut cream can replace heavy cream. You can also use a non-dairy option like almond or oat cream for a vegan dish.

Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a salty depth. If dairy-free, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor or a vegan Parmesan substitute.

How Do I Achieve the Perfect Creamy Sauce?

The sauce can be the trickiest part, but it’s also where the magic happens! Here’s how to make it come out perfectly creamy:

• First, keep the heat at medium to prevent the cream from curdling.
• When adding the cream and chicken broth, stir continuously to combine and keep it smooth.
• Let the sauce simmer gently for a few minutes after adding the cheese. This allows it to thicken properly without boiling.
• Hold off on adding salt until the cheese goes in, since Parmesan brings its own saltiness.

Keep these tips in mind and you’ll have a velvety sauce that clings perfectly to your pasta! Enjoy making this dish!

How to Make Creamy Chicken Spinach Pasta

Ingredients You’ll Need:

Pasta:

• 8 oz pasta (casarecce, penne, or fusilli works well)

Chicken & Oil:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Flavor Boosters:

• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups fresh spinach leaves

For the Creamy Sauce:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped

How Much Time Will You Need?

This creamy chicken spinach pasta takes about 25-30 minutes from start to finish! You’ll spend about 10-15 minutes prepping the ingredients and another 15-20 minutes cooking it all together. Perfect for a quick, delightful dinner!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Once done, drain it and set aside. It’s vital not to overcook it, as it will continue cooking a bit once mixed with the sauce.

2. Cook the Chicken:

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet. Season them with salt and pepper. Sauté the chicken for about 5-7 minutes or until it turns golden and is fully cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

3. Sauté the Garlic and Spinach:

In the same skillet, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until it becomes fragrant. Then, add the fresh spinach leaves and continue to cook for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spinach is wilted and tender.

4. Make the Creamy Sauce:

Next, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to mix everything together. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer. This will create a lovely creamy base for your pasta!

5. Add Cheese and Seasoning:

Now, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if you like a bit of spice). Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly, creating that delicious creamy texture.

6. Combine Everything:

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss everything together gently so that the chicken is well coated with the sauce. Then, add the cooked pasta and mix until everything is combined and heated through.

7. Final Touches:

Take a moment to taste your dish and make any necessary adjustments with salt and pepper. Once you’re satisfied, serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color!

Enjoy your delicious creamy chicken spinach pasta! It’s comforting, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion!

Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead of Fresh?

Absolutely! If using frozen spinach, make sure to thaw it and drain any excess water before adding it to the skillet. This will help prevent the sauce from becoming too watery.

What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?

If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half or a 1:1 mix of milk and sour cream can work well. For a dairy-free alternative, try coconut cream or a plant-based cream like cashew cream.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream if it seems dry.

Can I Add Other Vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini. Just sauté them along with the garlic before adding the spinach for a delicious twist!