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- 1 Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta with Tomato & Spinach
Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta with Tomato & Spinach
Did you know that nearly 30% of home cooks struggle to find a pasta recipe that perfectly combines flavor and simplicity? If you’re one of them, you’ll be delighted to discover the Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta with Tomato & Spinach recipe, which promises to be both delectable and easy to make. This dish is not just creamy and savory; it’s also vibrant and packed with nutrients, making it an ideal weeknight meal. Let’s dive into how you can prepare this crowd-pleaser in a quick and efficient manner, and maybe even change your pasta game forever!
Ingredients List
To whip up this delicious Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta with Tomato & Spinach, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta (fettuccine or penne work beautifully)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil for a lighter taste)
- 1 pound (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (feel free to add more for an extra kick!)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups fresh spinach (substitute with kale for a heartier green)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for a dairy-free option)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (nutritional yeast can replace for a vegan option)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (mixed herbs are also a great choice)
Timing
Prepare your kitchen for a delightful dinner! This Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta with Tomato & Spinach takes:
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
That’s a solid 20% less time than the average pasta dish, allowing you to enjoy more moments at the table rather than in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and then drain. Set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken breast, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Create the Sauce
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and spinach, cooking until the spinach is wilted and the tomatoes are softened, roughly 3-4 minutes.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and the reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick. Finally, add the chicken back to the skillet, mixing everything to coat.
Step 5: Final Touches
Add the drained pasta to the sauce and toss well to combine. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Nutritional Information
For a serving size of one plate (approximately 1.5 cups):
- Calories: 620
- Protein: 38g
- Fat: 24g (saturated fat: 12g)
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
With these numbers, this dish is not just filling but also provides essential nutrients needed for your busy days!
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
Looking to make this recipe a bit lighter or accommodate different dietary needs? Here are some swaps:
- Pasta: Use whole-wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option.
- Cream: Substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt mixed with a little milk for a lower-calorie alternative.
- Cheese: Reduce cheese content or use a lactose-free option for a lighter dish.
Serving Suggestions
This Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta with Tomato & Spinach is delicious on its own, but here are a few ways to elevate your presentation:
- Serve it in a large, shallow bowl and top with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a vibrant finish.
- Pair with a side of garlic bread or a fresh arugula salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette.
- For gatherings, serve family-style in a large dish and let guests help themselves; it adds an inviting touch!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Chicken: Ensure the chicken is just cooked through to retain moisture.
- Too Much Pasta Water: Add it gradually to the sauce. You can always add more if needed.
- Under-seasoning: Don’t skip tasting as you cook; seasoning is key to bringing out flavors.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to keep your Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta with Tomato & Spinach fresh:
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: To freeze, portion into freezer-safe containers; enjoy within 1-2 months.
- Reheat: For the best results, reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to restore creaminess.
Conclusion
The Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta with Tomato & Spinach is a dish that combines convenience and flavor, perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re cooking for family or enjoying a solo dinner, it’s a fulfilling choice that allows for creativity and adaptation. Try this recipe today and transform your pasta nights!
Have you made this dish? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Feel free to leave feedback or explore similar recipes on our blog.
FAQs
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just omit the chicken and substitute with mushrooms or a plant-based protein.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
Coconut cream or cashew cream works beautifully for a dairy-free alternative.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli would also make great additions.
How spicy is this recipe?
It’s mild, but you can add red pepper flakes for some heat if preferred.
Thank you for reading! Let your taste buds explore this creamy perfection tonight.
Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta with Tomato & Spinach
Ingredients
Pasta and Main Ingredients
- 12 oz 12 oz (340 g) pasta (fettuccine or penne) Fettuccine or penne work beautifully.
- 1 lb 1 pound (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced
- 4 cloves 4 cloves garlic, minced Feel free to add more for an extra kick!
- 1 cup 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups 2 cups fresh spinach Substitute with kale for a heartier green.
- 1 cup 1 cup heavy cream Coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
- 1/2 cup 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Nutritional yeast can replace for a vegan option.
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning Mixed herbs are also a great choice.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and then drain. Set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken breast, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Cooking
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and spinach, cooking until the spinach is wilted and the tomatoes are softened, roughly 3-4 minutes.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and the reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick. Finally, add the chicken back to the skillet, mixing everything to coat.
- Add the drained pasta to the sauce and toss well to combine. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Notes
Written by Salaheddine — founder of Tasty Sunrise, sharing easy and comforting homemade recipes for every occasion.
📩 admin@tastysunrise.com • Pinterest