Get ready to transform your ordinary weeknight dinner into a culinary masterpiece that combines the creamy decadence of spinach artichoke dip with the hearty satisfaction of a chicken pasta dish. This one-skillet wonder is about to become your new obsession, promising a perfect blend of tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luxuriously creamy sauce that will have everyone at the table begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups rotini pasta
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1 can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 1 cup cream cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving a small amount of pasta water.
- Season the diced chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with a tablespoon of olive oil.
- Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the chopped artichoke hearts. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until they start to get slightly crispy edges.
- Lower the heat and add cream cheese to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts and creates a smooth sauce.
- Incorporate the chopped spinach and cook for 1-2 minutes until it wilts and becomes tender.
- Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and stir to combine with the sauce and vegetables.
- Gently fold in the cooked rotini pasta, ensuring everything is well coated. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top and stir to incorporate.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Remove from heat and let sit for 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld together. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips
- Pasta Water is Your Secret Weapon: Always reserve a little pasta water before draining. This starchy liquid helps create a smoother, more cohesive sauce and can help adjust the consistency if needed.
- Chicken Cooking Hack: Make sure to pat your chicken dry before seasoning to ensure a beautiful golden-brown sear. This helps lock in flavor and creates those delicious crispy edges.
- Cheese Melting Tip: Lower the heat when adding cream cheese to prevent burning and ensure a smooth, creamy sauce. Stir continuously for the best texture.
- Meal Prep Magic: This dish can be prepared ahead of time and reheated gently. Add a splash of milk or pasta water when reheating to restore the creamy consistency.
- Customize Your Skillet: Feel free to add extra vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to boost nutrition and add more flavor complexity.
- Cheese Lover's Trick: For an extra cheesy finish, sprinkle some additional Parmesan on top and briefly broil for a golden, crispy top layer. Pro tip: Let the dish rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to meld together perfectly!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 480kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 110mg
