Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 lb. pasta (your choice of shape)
Chicken and Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 onion (finely diced)
- 1 1/2 lbs. chicken breast (cut into cubes)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 4 garlic cloves (finely minced)
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2/3 cup sundried tomatoes in oil (chopped)
- 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 cup fresh baby spinach (chopped)
- 4 ounces Parmesan cheese (grated)
- 5-6 fresh basil leaves (chiffonade)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Add your choice of pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Cook the Chicken and Onions: In a large skillet, heat the butter over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and sauté until soft and translucent, approximately 5 minutes. Season the cubed chicken with salt and pepper, then add it to the skillet. Cook the chicken until lightly golden and thoroughly cooked, about 5 minutes per side. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its aroma.
- Make the Sauce Base: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to loosen any browned bits for added flavor. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for a few minutes to thicken slightly. Stir in the chopped sundried tomatoes, heavy cream, and red pepper flakes. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Add Greens and Cheese: Incorporate the chopped baby spinach and grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce. Stir continuously until the Parmesan has completely melted and the spinach has wilted, creating a creamy and flavorful sauce.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and stir well to coat it evenly with the sauce. If you prefer a thinner sauce, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, and optional Italian seasoning. Finally, stir in the fresh basil leaves for a burst of herbaceous flavor.
- Serve: Plate the pasta, and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and basil ribbons. Serve immediately for a warm and comforting meal.
Notes
- Be sure to reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency as needed.
- Chopping the spinach ahead of time helps it integrate better into the sauce.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level.
- Fresh basil added at the end keeps the flavor bright and fresh.
- This dish pairs well with a light green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American