Embark on a culinary journey with our One-Pot Wonder: Creamy Spinach Artichoke & Chicken Pasta, a dish that promises to simplify your dinner routine without compromising on taste. Imagine tender chicken pieces and pasta enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce, bursting with the flavors of spinach and artichokes. This recipe is the epitome of comfort food, combining all the beloved elements of a classic dish in a single pot for ease and convenience. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you crave something deliciously comforting, this dish will become a cherished favorite in no time.
Preparation and Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings and Serving Size
- Servings: 6
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 580 kcal
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
Ingredients
- 450g (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 450g (1 lb) penne pasta
- 280g (10 oz) frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- 400g (14 oz) canned artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 1 liter (4 cups) chicken broth
- 200g (7 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 100ml (3.4 oz) heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, diced
- 100g (3.5 oz) grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 30ml (1 oz) olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Detailed Method of Preparation
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent and fragrant.
- Add the chicken pieces to the pot, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and nearly cooked through.
- Stir in the penne pasta, chicken broth, and cream cheese, mixing until the cream cheese is melted and evenly distributed.
- Add the chopped artichoke hearts and thawed spinach, stirring well to incorporate.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked and the sauce has thickened.
- Once the pasta is tender, stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips for Culinary Success
- Ensure the chicken is cut into even pieces for uniform cooking.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness of the dish.
- For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a light cooking cream.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh spinach can be used. Add it towards the end of cooking as it wilts faster than frozen.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the regular pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta. Be mindful of cooking times as they may vary.
As you savor the last bite of our One-Pot Wonder: Creamy Spinach Artichoke & Chicken Pasta, the ease and joy of cooking this dish resonate just as much as its delightful flavors. This recipe isn't just about feeding the body; it's about nourishing the soul with the warmth of home-cooked meals and the simplicity of one-pot cooking. Here's to many more nights of culinary exploration and enjoyment, one pot at a time.