Are you in the mood for something hearty and savory that won’t take long to make yet will wow your guests? Spinach Chicken Pasta with Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce is your one-stop-shop. Indulge in the irresistible combination of flaky pasta, crisp spinach, and juicy chicken in this mouthwatering dish. Top it all off with a rich garlic butter sauce and watch as the plates fly off the table. Everything you need to know to whip up this mouthwatering dish is right here in this blog post: ingredients, methods, and even some suggestions for personalizing the dish.
Why You’ll Love Creamy Garlic Butter Spinach Chicken Pasta
You won’t find this spaghetti dish anywhere else. What makes it unique is this:
- Flavor Explosion: The chicken and spinach are enhanced by the rich, flavorful sauce made with garlic, butter, and cream.
- Nutrient-Rich: This recipe is both healthy and tasty because spinach is a rich source of vitamins and minerals.
- Quick and Easy: For weeknights when time is of the essence, try this recipe’s few ingredients and easy methods.
- Versatile: You can easily change the ingredients to fit your diet or use what you have available.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- Pasta: 12 ounces of your favorite pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti work well)
- Spinach: 4 cups of fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
- Butter: 4 tablespoons
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup
- Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup, grated
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, for a bit of heat
- Chicken Broth: 1/2 cup, to enhance the flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Bring a big saucepan of water to a boil, then add a generous pinch of salt.
- Once the water is boiling, add the pasta and simmer until it reaches the desired doneness, usually al dente.
- After draining, save aside the pasta water (approximately 1/2 cup).
2. Prepare the Chicken
- Before serving, sprinkle salt and pepper over the chicken dice.
- Warm the olive oil in a big pan over medium-high heat.
- Toss in the chicken and sear it for five to seven minutes, or until it turns a golden brown and is cooked through. After taking it out of the pan, set it aside.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
- Put the butter in the same pan and lower the heat to medium.
- Once melted, sauté the minced garlic for one to two minutes, or until it begins to release its aroma.
- After a few of minutes of simmering, add the chicken broth and let the flavors combine.
4. Create the Creamy Sauce
- Turn the heat down to low and whisk in the heavy cream.
- While constantly swirling, gradually incorporate the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and the sauce becomes smooth.
- If desired, add red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine Everything
- Before adding the chopped spinach, return the cooked chicken to the skillet.
- Toss the chicken in the creamy sauce and stir until the spinach wilts.
- After the pasta is cooked, add it to the pan and mix well.
until well combined. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
6. Serve and Enjoy
- Spoon or transfer the chicken and spinach pasta tossed in creamy garlic butter to a big serving bowl.
- If you’re looking for a little heat, garnish with some red pepper flakes and additional Parmesan cheese.
- Quickly serve and savor the explosion of flavors with each bite.
Tips for the Perfect Creamy Garlic Butter Spinach Chicken Pasta
- Use Fresh Ingredients: The flavor will be enhanced by using fresh garlic and spinach. Thaw and drain the spinach thoroughly if you must use it frozen.
- Adjust the Sauce: Simmer for a little longer if you want a thicker sauce. Increase the amount of chicken broth or pasta water to make the sauce thinner.
- Add Veggies: For variety and nutritional value, feel free to toss in some mushrooms, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes.
- Protein Variations: Substitute shrimp, turkey, or tofu for the chicken for a protein variation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Sure thing! Feel free to use any pasta you happen to have on hand, though penne, fettuccine, and spaghetti are all excellent options. You can also use gluten-free spaghetti or whole grain pasta.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It is possible to prepare the ingredients in advance. Separately prepare the sauce and cook the chicken, then refrigerate them. Return to the heat and stir in the just-cooked pasta just before serving.
3. How can I make this dish lighter?
Substitute half-and-half with heavy cream and cut back on the butter for a lighter version. Use whole wheat spaghetti and add more spinach if you like.
4. What can I serve with this pasta?
While this pasta dish can stand alone as a satisfying dinner, it can be amplified with the addition of roasted veggies, garlic bread, or a side salad.
5. Can I freeze leftovers?
The leftovers can, in fact, be frozen. Freeze them for up to three months after placing in an airtight container. After a night in the fridge, thaw and gently reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Conclusion
This delectable recipe, Spinach Chicken Pasta with Creamy Garlic Butter, is ideal for any occasion. This dish will be a hit whether you’re making it for a quiet night in or a big party. Indulge in a nutritious and flavorful dinner with a blend of creamy sauce, succulent chicken, and crisp spinach. On top of that, it’s adaptable enough to suit your personal preferences.
You Can Also Read Here The Ultimate Creamy Tuscan Chicken Recipe
