Creamy Spinach and Tomato Chicken Pasta

Description

This vibrant and savory skillet meal features tender pieces of chicken mixed with thin spaghetti, tossed in a rich sauce along with fresh spinach and diced tomatoes. It is a hearty, all-in-one comforting dinner loaded with flavor.

Ingredients

• For the Pasta & Chicken:

  • 8 oz thin spaghetti or spaghettini pasta

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

• For the Vegetables & Sauce:

  • 2 cups fresh spinach leaves

  • 1 cup diced tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 cup heavy cream or chicken broth (cream creates a richer sauce)

  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1 tbsp butter

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:

   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the thin spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Sear the Chicken:

   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.

   • Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Remove and set aside.

3. Sauté Aromatics and Tomatoes:

   • In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the minced garlic, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

   • Add the diced or sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 2 minutes until softened.

4. Add Spinach and Sauce:

   • Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and let them wilt into the mixture.

   • Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, then stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

5. Combine:

   • Add the cooked spaghetti and the seared chicken back into the skillet. Toss everything together thoroughly so the pasta and chicken are well coated in the sauce. Serve warm!