If you're searching for a dinner recipe that promises both comfort and flavor, look no further than this Creamy Chicken Pasta Skillet! In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a dish that’s not only delicious but also perfect for busy weeknights. Imagine tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, creamy sauce that clings to every bite, all coming together in one pan. Whether you’re cooking for family or impressing friends, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Ready to dive into a bowl of creamy goodness? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 8 ounces pasta of choice
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup spinach
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients by dicing chicken breasts into small, uniform cubes. Season the chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil and allow it to become hot and shimmering.
- Add the seasoned chicken cubes to the skillet. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through with no pink interior.
- Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate. Keep warm.
- In the same skillet, add chicken broth and pasta. Bring to a simmer and cook according to pasta package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once pasta is almost al dente, pour in heavy cream and stir to combine. Reduce heat to medium-low.
- Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir to integrate with the pasta and cream sauce.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the mixture and stir until cheese is melted and sauce becomes creamy.
- Add fresh spinach and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until spinach wilts and becomes tender.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Remove from heat and let sit for 2-3 minutes to allow sauce to thicken slightly before serving.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, dice the chicken and measure out your ingredients before you start cooking. This will make the process smoother and faster.
- Choose Your Pasta Wisely: While any pasta works, opt for shapes like penne or fusilli that hold onto the creamy sauce better.
- Don’t Rush the Chicken: Make sure to cook the chicken until it’s golden brown and cooked through. This enhances the flavor and texture of the dish.
- Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter dish, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk or chicken broth.
- Season to Taste: Always taste your dish before serving. A pinch of extra salt or a dash of pepper can elevate the flavors significantly.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to throw in other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
- Serve with Style: Garnish your dish with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a beautiful presentation.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 567kcal
Carbohydrates: 44g
Protein: 32g
Fat: 29g
Saturated Fat: 17g
Cholesterol: 144mg
