Description
Indulge in the creamy delight of Cheesy Chicken Pasta, a comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights and family gatherings. This one-pot wonder combines tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a luscious blend of cheeses, all simmered together to create a rich sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds. With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this hearty meal in under an hour, making it an ideal choice for any occasion. Customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices to make it truly your own!
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- ¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon pepper (or to taste)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 10 ounces penne pasta, uncooked
- 2½ cups chicken broth (low sodium)
- 1 cup milk
- 8 ounces fresh spinach (about 3 cups)
- 3 ounces cream cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
- Add bite-sized chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, then cook until browned. Stir in minced garlic for about a minute.
- Mix in uncooked penne pasta, chicken broth, and milk; bring to a boil. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes until pasta is tender.
- Stir in cream cheese until melted, then add fresh spinach and both cheeses until evenly combined and the spinach wilts.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: Feel free to incorporate additional veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor. Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist. Adjust cheese quantities based on personal preference.