Description
This Chicken Florentine Pasta is a creamy, comforting dish featuring tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a rich parmesan sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this easy recipe delivers a flavorful meal in just 30 minutes. The addition of cherry tomatoes and Italian seasoning brings extra layers of taste to this delicious pasta dish.
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook penne pasta according to the package instructions.
- Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Cook for 6-7 minutes, until golden brown and fully cooked.
- Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic and Tomatoes
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Stir in cherry tomatoes and cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Make the Sauce
- Pour in heavy cream, chicken broth, and parmesan cheese.
- Stir until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add red pepper flakes for extra heat, if desired.
5. Combine Everything
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with baby spinach.
- Stir until the spinach wilts.
- Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together.
6. Serve & Enjoy
- Garnish with extra parmesan cheese and serve warm!
Notes
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and use mushrooms or another plant-based protein for a vegetarian twist.
- Spicy Kick: Adjust red pepper flakes for more heat.
- Creamy Sauce: For a richer sauce, add a little more cream or cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
