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Parmesan Chicken and Spinach Pasta

A warm, comforting pasta dish enveloped in a creamy sauce with tender chicken, fresh spinach, and sprinkled with Parmesan cheese. Perfect for quick family meals.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta Base
  • 8 oz penne pasta The base of this dish, providing a perfect texture to hold sauce and flavors.
Sauce Components
  • 2 tbsp olive oil Adds richness and depth, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
  • 1 medium Vidalia onion, diced Sweet and mild, it brings aromatic flavor when sautéed.
  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, cubed A lean protein that cooks quickly and stays juicy.
  • 1 tsp kosher salt Essential for enhancing and balancing the dish's flavors.
  • 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper Adds a subtle heat and aromatic complexity.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Provides a fragrant and savory kick that elevates the flavor profile.
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice Brightens the dish with refreshing acidity and vivid flavor.
  • 4 cups fresh baby spinach Introduces vibrant color and essential nutrients.
  • 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese Rich and salty, it adds a creamy finish that ties everything together.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, add olive oil and diced Vidalia onion; sauté over medium-high heat for about 3 minutes until softened.
  3. Incorporate bite-sized pieces of boneless chicken breast, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper; sauté for about 5 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.
  4. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, ensuring it doesn’t burn.
  5. Mix in lemon juice, allowing it to blend with the savory components of the dish.
  6. Turn off the heat, then add the cooked penne pasta and fresh baby spinach, stirring until well combined. Adjust with additional olive oil if needed for desired texture.
  7. Sample the dish and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as necessary for optimal flavor.
  8. Sprinkle shredded Parmesan cheese over the top before serving, or stir it into the pasta for extra creaminess.

Notes

Ensure the pasta is cooked al dente. Use fresh ingredients for better flavor. You can experiment with additional vegetables like cherry tomatoes or bell peppers, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat. Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days.