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One skillet chicken pasta with creamy sauce, chicken, and vegetables in a pan

One Skillet Chicken Pasta: A Quick and Easy Dinner Recipe

Aida
Discover a quick and easy one-skillet chicken pasta recipe with creamy sauce, tender chicken, and veggies. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4 people
Calories 567 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pieces Chicken breasts Boneless, skinless; slice into strips for quicker cooking.
  • 8 oz Pasta Penne pasta (or any pasta of your choice); gluten-free option available.
  • 1 cup Heavy cream Can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version.
  • 1 tbsp Olive oil For sautéing the chicken.
  • 1 cup Fresh spinach Can use frozen spinach (thawed and drained).
  • 1 cup Cherry tomatoes Halved; can use any variety of tomatoes.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Minced; fresh garlic provides the best flavor.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese Freshly grated is ideal for texture and flavor.
  • 1/2 tsp Salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1/4 tsp Black pepper Freshly ground for the best flavor.
  • 1/2 tsp Dried basil Fresh basil can be used as a substitution for a more vibrant taste.

Instructions
 

  • Cook the Chicken
    Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.Add the sliced chicken breasts and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is browned and cooked through.Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
    Sauté the Garlic and Vegetables
    In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften.Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
    Make the Sauce
    Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and stir to combine with the garlic and veggies.Bring the cream to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.Stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce becomes creamy.
    Cook the Pasta
    Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the sauce until fully coated.If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a splash of pasta water or additional cream to reach your desired consistency.
    Combine and Serve
    Serve Hot
    Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss everything together.Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.Garnish with fresh basil or extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.Serve your delicious one-skillet chicken pasta immediately and enjoy!

Notes

Recipe Notes for One-Skillet Chicken Pasta:

  • Pasta Substitutes:
    • You can use any type of pasta you prefer. Penne, rotini, or fusilli work best as they hold the sauce well. If you're gluten-sensitive, opt for gluten-free pasta or whole wheat pasta for a healthier alternative.
  • Cream Substitutes:
    • If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even Greek yogurt for a creamy texture without the extra calories. For a dairy-free option, use coconut milk or almond milk.
  • Vegetable Variations:
    • Feel free to get creative with the vegetables. Zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms are great options to mix in. Frozen spinach can also be used if fresh isn’t available—just be sure to drain and thaw it before adding.
  • Cheese Variations:
    • Parmesan cheese gives the dish its signature savory, salty flavor, but you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, or pecorino Romano for a different twist.
  • Spice It Up:
    • If you like a bit of heat, try adding red pepper flakes to the sauce, or season the chicken with some Cajun seasoning for a spicy kick.
  • Make-Ahead:
    • This dish is perfect for meal prepping! You can cook the chicken and pasta ahead of time, then reheat it with the sauce when ready to serve.
  • Leftovers:
    • Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth to revive the creamy texture.
  • Serving Suggestions:
    • This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also add a sprinkle of fresh basil or extra Parmesan for added flavor.