Indulge your taste buds with a delightful Italian classic that combines the rich flavors of creamy sherry sauce with tender chicken and fresh spinach—welcome to your new favorite dish: Chicken Spinach Pasta with Sherry Cream Sauce! This mouthwatering recipe not only tantalizes your palate but also comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests. Ready to impress your family and friends with a dish that looks and tastes gourmet? Let’s dive into the recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz. pasta
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sherry
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and bring to a rolling boil. Add a pinch of salt to the water.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- While pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Pour sherry into the skillet and allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes, reducing slightly and releasing the garlic's flavors.
- Add heavy cream to the skillet, stirring continuously. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, reducing heat to prevent scorching.
- Incorporate shredded chicken into the cream sauce, stirring to distribute evenly and warm the meat.
- Add fresh spinach to the skillet, allowing it to wilt and incorporate into the sauce, approximately 1-2 minutes.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- If sauce seems too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
- Add drained pasta to the skillet, tossing thoroughly to coat with the creamy sauce.
- Serve immediately, garnishing with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips
- Pasta Perfection: Always cook your pasta until al dente for the best texture. Remember to reserve some pasta water; it’s a great way to adjust the sauce's consistency later!
- Sherry Selection: Choose a good quality dry sherry for the sauce, as it enhances the flavor profile beautifully. Don’t skip this step, as it adds a depth that elevates the entire dish.
- Fresh Spinach: Add the spinach towards the end of cooking to retain its vibrant color and nutrients. It should wilt just enough to blend into the creamy sauce without losing its freshness.
- Cheese Choices: While Parmesan is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor or even a sprinkle of mozzarella for extra creaminess.
- Seasoning: Taste your sauce before serving and adjust the seasoning. A pinch of nutmeg can also enhance the creaminess, giving it a lovely warmth.
- Garnish for Glamour: Don’t forget to garnish with additional Parmesan and a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper before serving. A drizzle of olive oil can also add a touch of elegance!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 540kcal
Carbohydrates: 44g
Protein: 37g
Fat: 34g
Saturated Fat: 22g
Cholesterol: 120mg
