Description
A creamy and comforting chicken pasta dish loaded with tender broccoli and fresh spinach, cooked in a rich Parmesan-infused sauce. Perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner that is both flavorful and satisfying.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Vegetables
- 12 oz penne or rotini pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups fresh spinach
Protein
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
Sauce and Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta and Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions. During the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets. Drain both and set aside.
- Cook Chicken: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, seasoning them with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic and Make Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Thicken Sauce: Add grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet and stir continuously until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked pasta, broccoli, spinach, and chicken to the skillet. Toss everything together until the spinach wilts and all ingredients are evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
- Adjust and Garnish: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with chopped parsley and a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
- Adding mushrooms can enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.
- This dish reheats well, making it ideal for leftovers.
