Imagine a dish that combines the perfect balance of tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and juicy cherry tomatoes, all tossed together with al dente penne pasta – a meal that promises to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience! This Italian-inspired recipe is not just a meal; it's a symphony of flavors that will have your taste buds dancing and your family begging for seconds. Whether you're a busy professional looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a home cook craving something deliciously satisfying, this recipe is about to become your new go-to comfort food.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb chicken breast, sliced
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add penne pasta to boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/4 cup of pasta water.
- Season sliced chicken breast with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Ensure each piece is evenly coated.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken slices and cook for 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Remove chicken from skillet and set aside on a plate. Keep warm.
- In the same skillet, add halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften and release their juices.
- Add fresh spinach to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes until wilted but still bright green.
- Return chicken to the skillet and add cooked penne pasta. If mixture seems dry, add reserved pasta water.
- Toss all ingredients together, ensuring chicken and pasta are evenly coated with spinach and tomato.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve hot, garnishing with fresh herbs or grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips
- Pasta Perfection: Always cook your pasta just until al dente – this means it should have a slight firmness when bitten. The reserved pasta water is your secret weapon for creating a silky sauce.
- Chicken Cooking Hack: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F without overcooking. This guarantees juicy, perfectly cooked chicken every time.
- Maximize Flavor: Season your chicken generously and let it sit for a few minutes before cooking to allow the seasonings to penetrate the meat.
- Fresh is Best: Use fresh spinach and ripe cherry tomatoes for the most vibrant flavor and nutritional punch.
- One-Pan Wonder: By using the same skillet for chicken, tomatoes, and spinach, you'll capture all the delicious browned bits and create a more complex flavor profile.
- Serving Suggestion: For an extra touch of elegance, garnish with fresh basil or a sprinkle of high-quality Parmesan cheese just before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 400kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 90mg
