When the aroma of garlic and sautéed chicken wafts through your kitchen, you know something magical is about to happen. Picture this: tender chicken pieces mingling with vibrant spinach, all cozying up in a rich, creamy sauce that has a zing of lemon to awaken your taste buds. cozy chicken pot pie soup Chicken & Spinach Skillet Pasta with Lemon & Parmesan is not just a dish; it’s a culinary hug on a plate that brightens any weeknight dinner.
Jump to:
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- FAQs :
- What ingredients do I need for Chicken & Spinach Skillet Pasta with Lemon & Parmesan?
- How long does it take to make Chicken & Spinach Skillet Pasta with Lemon & Parmesan?
- Can I use frozen spinach for Chicken & Spinach Skillet Pasta?
- Is Chicken & Spinach Skillet Pasta healthy?
- Conclusion for Chicken & Spinach Skillet Pasta with Lemon & Parmesan :
- 📖 Recipe Card
Now, let me take you down memory lane. I remember the first time I tried making this dish. I was channeling my inner Gordon Ramsay (minus the yelling) and thought, “How hard could it be?” Spoiler alert: I almost set my kitchen on fire! But as I pulled that bubbling skillet off the heat, the delightful aroma filled my home like an inviting invitation to gather around the table. This dish has since become my go-to for family dinners and impromptu gatherings because who doesn’t love pasta? And believe me, it’s perfect for those evenings when you want something quick yet impressive.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Chicken & Spinach Skillet Pasta is a one-pan wonder that simplifies cleanup while delivering robust flavors.
- The creamy sauce with lemon zest adds brightness to every bite.
- Its colorful presentation transforms any ordinary meal into a feast for the eyes.
- Versatile enough to adapt based on what you have at home makes it ideal for creative cooks.
Ingredients for Chicken & Spinach Skillet Pasta with Lemon & Parmesan cinnamon roll casserole.
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: delicious Halloween desserts.
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts will work well; adjust as needed for your hungry crowd.
- Fresh Spinach: Choose vibrant green leaves; they add nutrition and color to the dish.
- Garlic: Fresh cloves are best for that aromatic flavor punch.
- Pasta: Any variety works; I usually use fettuccine or penne for texture.
- Lemon Juice and Zest: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the creamy sauce beautifully.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grate your own if possible; it melts perfectly and adds depth.
- Olive Oil: Extra virgin is ideal for flavor; it helps sauté everything to perfection.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance flavors throughout the dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Chicken & Spinach Skillet Pasta with Lemon & Parmesan
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients so they’re ready when you need them. Chop up your chicken into bite-sized pieces and mince those garlic cloves like you’re preparing for battle.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a splash of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in those chicken pieces seasoned with salt and pepper. Sauté until they’re golden brown and fully cooked (about 7-10 minutes). Don’t forget to channel your inner chef while stirring!
Step 3: Add Garlic and Spinach
Once your chicken is cooked through, it’s time for garlic’s grand entrance! Add minced garlic to the pan and let it sizzle for about a minute before tossing in fresh spinach. Stir until wilted—this should only take about two minutes.
Step 4: Cook Your Pasta
While you’re multitasking like a pro, boil water in a separate pot and cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and save some of that starchy pasta water—it’s liquid gold for our sauce!
Step 5: Make the Sauce
Incorporate lemon juice, zest, and grated Parmesan into your skillet with chicken and spinach. Gradually stir in some reserved pasta water until you reach your desired creaminess.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Toss cooked pasta into the skillet with all its lovely components. Mix everything gently so that every piece of pasta gets coated in that heavenly sauce.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with extra lemon juice if you’re feeling zesty! Enjoy this delightful meal as you soak in compliments from family or friends—all while contemplating how you can conquer more recipes like this one!
You Must Know
- This Chicken & Spinach Skillet Pasta with Lemon & Parmesan not only tantalizes your taste buds but also simplifies your dinner routine.
- With vibrant colors and fresh ingredients, it transforms your kitchen into a gourmet paradise.
- Perfect for busy weeknights yet elegant enough for guests.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken in a large skillet until golden brown. While that sizzles, boil your pasta in salted water. Then, create the sauce with spinach, lemon juice, and Parmesan. Combine everything at the end for perfect harmony of flavors.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the chicken for shrimp or tofu to cater to dietary preferences. You can also add sun-dried tomatoes or olives for extra flavor. Experiment with different herbs like basil or thyme to make it your own.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist and delicious.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always cook the pasta al dente; it will continue cooking when mixed with the sauce.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for richer flavor.
- Don’t rush the chicken; let it develop a nice crust for maximum taste.
It’s funny how this Chicken & Spinach Skillet Pasta came about during a frantic weeknight when I realized I had zero dinner plans. A little creativity turned chaos into culinary delight!
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for Chicken & Spinach Skillet Pasta with Lemon & Parmesan?
To prepare Chicken & Spinach Skillet Pasta with Lemon & Parmesan, gather these key ingredients: chicken breast, fresh spinach, pasta (preferably linguine or fettuccine), garlic, lemon juice, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. You will also need olive oil, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for added heat. Having everything prepped in advance makes cooking this dish quick and enjoyable.
How long does it take to make Chicken & Spinach Skillet Pasta with Lemon & Parmesan?
This delicious Chicken & Spinach Skillet Pasta with Lemon & Parmesan takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. The cooking time may vary slightly based on your stove and the type of pasta you choose. However, it’s a quick meal perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen. For more inspiration, check out this chicken burrito bowls recipe.
Can I use frozen spinach for Chicken & Spinach Skillet Pasta?
Yes, you can substitute frozen spinach for fresh in Chicken & Spinach Skillet Pasta with Lemon & Parmesan. Just make sure to thaw it thoroughly and drain any excess water before adding it to the skillet. The texture will be slightly different than fresh spinach, but it will still provide great flavor and nutrition to your dish.
Is Chicken & Spinach Skillet Pasta healthy?
Chicken & Spinach Skillet Pasta with Lemon & Parmesan is a healthy option packed with protein and nutrients. The chicken provides lean protein while the spinach adds vitamins A, C, and K. Using whole-grain pasta can increase fiber content, making this dish a balanced meal that supports overall health while satisfying your taste buds.
Conclusion for Chicken & Spinach Skillet Pasta with Lemon & Parmesan :
In summary, Chicken & Spinach Skillet Pasta with Lemon & Parmesan is a delightful dish that combines savory flavors and nutritional benefits. This recipe is quick to prepare and perfect for any occasion. With its vibrant ingredients and simple cooking process, you can enjoy a gourmet meal at home without the hassle. eyeball pasta salad Try making this delicious skillet pasta tonight for a satisfying dinner that everyone will love!
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📖 Recipe Card
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Chicken & Spinach Skillet Pasta with Lemon & Parmesan
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Chicken & Spinach Skillet Pasta with Lemon & Parmesan is a quick and delightful dish that brings together tender chicken, fresh spinach, and pasta in a creamy lemon sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this one-pan wonder not only satisfies your cravings but also simplifies cleanup, making it ideal for family dinners or impromptu gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 2 cups cooked fettuccine or penne
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken, season with salt and pepper, and sauté for about 7-10 minutes until golden brown.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for one minute before adding spinach. Cook until wilted, about two minutes.
- Meanwhile, cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and reserve some pasta water.
- Add lemon juice, zest, and heavy cream to the skillet. Gradually incorporate reserved pasta water until desired creaminess is achieved.
- Toss cooked pasta into the skillet mixture, ensuring all pasta is coated in sauce.
- Serve immediately with extra lemon juice if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (350g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
