Description
Indulge in a delightful and creamy chicken pasta dish that combines tender chicken strips with the bold flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and the freshness of baby spinach, all in a luscious Parmesan cream sauce. This easy-to-make pasta is perfect for a comforting meal any day of the week.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pasta:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 8 ounces penne or fettuccine pasta, cooked and drained
- 1/4 cup reserved pasta water (if needed)
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Season the chicken with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Add spinach and cook until wilted. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes, cooking until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta and return the chicken to the skillet. Toss everything to coat evenly, adding reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
- Serve: Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
- For a lighter option, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- You can also substitute grilled shrimp for chicken.