Chicken and Spinach Pasta
A simple pasta dish with poached chicken, fresh spinach, and a light garlic sauce – quick and delicious! This recipe is perfect for beginners and comes together in just a short time, allowing you to enjoy a homemade meal without much hassle.
- Total
- 25 min
- Serves
- 4
- Level
- Everyday
Created with Pantry Bliss
Ingredients
4 servings
For the pasta
- 300 grams Pasta, preferably spaghetti or fettuccine
For the chicken and sauce
- 400 grams Cooked poached chicken breast, shredded or sliced
- 200 grams Spinach, fresh
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil, for sautéing
- 1 teaspoon Salt, to taste
- 1 teaspoon Black pepper, to taste
- 50 grams Parmesan cheese, grated, optional for serving
- Prep
- 10 min
- Cook
- 15 min
About this recipe
This dish is inspired by classic Italian pasta meals, known for their simplicity and delightful flavours. The combination of poached chicken and fresh spinach tossed in a light garlic sauce showcases the beauty of fresh ingredients and makes for a wholesome family dinner.
Method
-
Step 1: Cook the pasta
Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring it to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (usually about 8-10 minutes). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once done, use a colander to drain the pasta, reserving a small cup of pasta water. Set the pasta aside.
Make sure the pasta doesn't overcook; it should be slightly firm to bite (al dente). -
Step 2: Prepare chicken and sauce
While the pasta cooks, heat a large frying pan over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot, add 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but not browned. Add the cooked poached chicken to the pan, and stir gently to warm it for about 2-3 minutes. Then, add 200 grams of fresh spinach, stirring until it wilts, about 2 minutes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Do not let the garlic burn, as it will taste bitter. -
Step 3: Combine and serve
Add the drained pasta to the frying pan with the chicken and spinach. Toss everything together, adding a little reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Be cautious while tossing the pasta to avoid splatters.
Tips
- Try adding cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweetness.
- Substitute the chicken with cooked mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
- You can use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for a bright flavour.
Equipment
- Large pot
- Large frying pan
- Colander
- Spoon
- Knife
- Cutting board
Serve it with
Sides
-
Garlic bread
Perfect for dipping and complements the garlic flavour in the pasta.
-
Mixed green salad
A light salad adds freshness and balances the dish.
Goes well with
-
Tiramisu
A classic Italian dessert to finish the meal on a sweet note.
Drinks
-
Sparkling water with lemon
Refreshing and enhances the flavours of the pasta.
-
Chardonnay
A glass of chilled white wine pairs well with the lightness of the dish.
Created by a home cook with Pantry Bliss’s AI recipe creator and shared with the community. Always check recipes for allergens and cook food to safe temperatures.
