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Spinach Parmesan Pasta with Chicken

Discover the delightful combination of tender pasta, succulent chicken, and fresh spinach enveloped in a savory Parmesan sauce. This dish is comforting and quick, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Course: Main
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Easy
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 16 ounces pasta noodles (spaghetti, penne, or fusilli)

Chicken

  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken strips

Seasoning

  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter divided

Spinach

  • 10 ounces fresh spinach

Garlic

  • ½ to 1 tablespoon freshly minced garlic

Cheese

  • ¼ to ½ cup Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, grated

Instructions

  • Step 1: Cook the Pasta - Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. In a large pot of salted boiling water, add the pasta and cook until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the rest. Set the drained pasta aside.
  • Step 2: Prepare the Chicken - While the pasta cooks, season the chicken strips with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter. Once melted, add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 6-8 minutes until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
  • Step 3: Sauté the Spinach and Garlic - In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds. Then, add the fresh spinach and sauté until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
  • Step 4: Combine Everything - Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet with the sautéed spinach and garlic. Toss together over medium-low heat, gradually adding reserved pasta water until desired sauce consistency is achieved. Stir in grated cheese until melted and evenly distributed.
  • Step 5: Serve and Enjoy - Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Large Skillet

Notes

Leftover Spinach Parmesan Pasta with Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.