Indulging in a bowl of Chicken & Spinach Skillet Pasta with Lemon & Parmesan is like giving your taste buds a warm hug. Picture this: tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and zesty lemon dancing together in perfect harmony. savory ham and spinach quiche It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that fills the air with delightful aromas, making your kitchen feel like the heart of a bustling Italian trattoria.
Now imagine sitting down to this colorful dish, where each bite brings a burst of flavor that sings to your soul. This recipe is perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing friends on a casual Friday night. cozy pumpkin lasagna Trust me; your taste buds will thank you as you savor every mouthful of this creamy, cheesy delight!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The ease of preparation means you can whip up this delicious meal in under 30 minutes.
- With its bright flavors and creamy texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
- The vibrant green spinach and golden chicken create an eye-catching dish that looks as good as it tastes.
- Versatile enough for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to weekend gatherings, this skillet pasta is a winner!
Ingredients for Chicken & Spinach Skillet Pasta with Lemon & Parmesan
refreshing lemon ginger shots.
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work perfectly, but adjust according to how many hungry mouths you’re feeding.
- Fresh Garlic: Choose firm garlic cloves because they pack a punch of flavor.
- Fresh Spinach: Opt for bright green leaves that will wilt beautifully when cooked.
- Pasta: Use your favorite type—fettuccine or penne works well in soaking up the sauce.
- Lemon Juice and Zest: Freshly squeezed lemon juice elevates the dish’s brightness; don’t skimp on the zest!
- Parmesan Cheese: Finely grated parmesan adds creaminess and depth; feel free to sprinkle generously.
- Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil brings richness and enhances the flavors beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Chicken & Spinach Skillet Pasta with Lemon & Parmesan
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Begin by gathering all your ingredients and chopping your chicken into bite-sized pieces. This step not only makes cooking easier but also ensures even cooking.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add your pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve about half a cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 3: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, toss in the chicken pieces, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Cook until they turn golden brown and are no longer pink inside—about six to eight minutes should do it.
Step 4: Add Garlic & Spinach
Once the chicken is cooked through, throw in minced garlic and fresh spinach. Stir often until the spinach wilts down—this only takes about two minutes.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Pour in your drained pasta along with lemon juice and zest. If things look too dry, add some reserved pasta water until you get that lovely creamy consistency. Mix well so everything gets coated. For more inspiration, check out this creamy lemon shrimp pasta recipe.
Step 6: Finish with Parmesan
Remove from heat and sprinkle generously with grated parmesan cheese. Toss everything one last time until combined, allowing the cheese to melt slightly.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with more lemon if you’re feeling fancy—because why not? Enjoy every bite while basking in your culinary success!
You Must Know
- This Chicken & Spinach Skillet Pasta with Lemon & Parmesan is not just a dish; it’s a culinary adventure!
- Packed with flavors, it’s perfect for busy weeknights and can easily be tailored to suit your taste buds.
- It’s a one-pan wonder that looks gorgeous on the dinner table.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken first until golden brown, then cook the pasta while preparing the creamy lemon sauce. Combine everything in the skillet, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly. This sequence ensures juicy chicken and perfectly cooked pasta every time.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out spinach for kale or add sun-dried tomatoes for a flavor punch. You can also try different cheeses like feta or goat cheese instead of Parmesan. The possibilities are endless!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen it up.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh ingredients for maximum flavor, as they make all the difference in this dish.
- Don’t overcook the chicken; it should be juicy and tender.
- Always taste as you go to adjust seasoning and ensure perfection!
Sometimes, I whip up this dish when friends come over, and their reactions are priceless—especially when they realize it was made in just one pan!
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for Chicken & Spinach Skillet Pasta with Lemon & Parmesan?
To make Chicken & Spinach Skillet Pasta with Lemon & Parmesan, you’ll need boneless chicken breasts, fresh spinach, pasta of your choice, garlic, lemon juice, and grated Parmesan cheese. Additionally, include olive oil, salt, and pepper for seasoning. Optional ingredients like cherry tomatoes can enhance flavor. Ensure you have everything ready before starting to make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
How long does it take to prepare Chicken & Spinach Skillet Pasta with Lemon & Parmesan?
Preparing Chicken & Spinach Skillet Pasta with Lemon & Parmesan typically takes about 30 minutes. This includes around 10 minutes for preparation and 20 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick meal perfect for weeknights or when you’re short on time. You can enjoy a delicious homemade dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
Can I use whole wheat pasta in this recipe?
Yes, you can use whole wheat pasta for Chicken & Spinach Skillet Pasta with Lemon & Parmesan. Whole wheat pasta adds more fiber and nutrients compared to regular pasta, making your meal healthier. The cooking time may vary slightly, so check the package instructions to ensure perfect texture. Enjoy the nutritious benefits while relishing every bite!
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can easily make Chicken & Spinach Skillet Pasta with Lemon & Parmesan vegetarian by omitting the chicken and adding more vegetables instead. Consider using mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for added flavor and texture. You can also increase the amount of spinach and sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese to maintain richness in taste.
Conclusion for Chicken & Spinach Skillet Pasta with Lemon & Parmesan :
In conclusion, Chicken & Spinach Skillet Pasta with Lemon & Parmesan is a delightful dish that combines flavors and nutrition effortlessly. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy evenings. Using simple ingredients allows anyone to recreate this flavorful meal at home. Remember to customize it to your taste by adding different vegetables or using whole wheat pasta if desired. Enjoy this comforting dish any night of the week! For more inspiration, check out this flavorful chicken burrito bowls recipe.
Chicken & Spinach Skillet Pasta with Lemon & Parmesan
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in a comforting bowl of Chicken & Spinach Skillet Pasta with Lemon & Parmesan. This quick and easy dish blends tender chicken, fresh spinach, and zesty lemon into a creamy pasta delight that’s ready in just 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, each bite bursts with flavor, making it a family favorite that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 3 breasts)
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 8 oz pasta (fettuccine or penne)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon (juice and zest)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Chop chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
- Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente; reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until golden brown, about 6-8 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and spinach; cook until spinach wilts, about 2 minutes.
- Mix drained pasta with lemon juice, zest, and reserved pasta water as needed for creaminess.
- Remove from heat, fold in Parmesan cheese until melted slightly. Serve warm.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 400g)
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: - For added flavor, consider incorporating sun-dried tomatoes or swapping spinach for kale. - Whole wheat pasta can be used for an extra nutritional boost. - Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days—reheat gently on the stove.
