Imagine a dish that combines the perfect balance of tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and zesty lemon, all twirled together in a creamy Parmesan embrace. This Chicken and Spinach Skillet Pasta isn't just a meal – it's a culinary adventure that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary dining experience. Whether you're a busy home cook looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a food enthusiast craving a restaurant-quality dish, this recipe promises to be your new go-to comfort food that's both nutritious and incredibly delicious!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente, usually 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Season diced chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Add chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Reduce heat to medium and add fresh spinach to the skillet. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until spinach wilts and becomes bright green.
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet, stirring to combine with chicken and spinach. If mixture seems dry, add reserved pasta water gradually.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the pasta and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together until cheese melts and ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips
- Pasta Water Magic: Always reserve some pasta water before draining. The starchy liquid helps create a silky sauce and helps ingredients stick together perfectly.
- Chicken Cooking Hack: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches exactly 165°F (74°C) for safe and juicy results.
- Spinach Timing: Add spinach at the last minute to maintain its bright green color and prevent overcooking.
- Lemon Tip: Roll the lemon on the counter before juicing to release more juice and maximize flavor.
- Cheese Pro: Grate fresh Parmesan for the best melting and flavor – pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
- One-Pan Wonder: This recipe minimizes cleanup by using just one skillet, making it perfect for quick meals and easy washing up!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 95mg
