Chicken and Spinach Pasta

This Chicken and Spinach Pasta is a delightful blend of tender chicken breast, vibrant spinach, and al dente pasta, all brought together with a light garlic and olive oil sauce. It's a healthy, satisfying dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Chicken and Spinach Pasta
30 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
American
480 kcal

Ingredients

  • Pasta (whole wheat) - 160 grams
  • Chicken breast (boneless, skinless) - 250 grams
  • Fresh spinach - 150 grams
  • Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
  • Garlic (minced) - 2 cloves
  • Cherry tomatoes (halved) - 100 grams
  • Parmesan cheese (grated) - 30 grams
  • Salt - to taste
  • Black pepper - to taste
  • Red pepper flakes - 1/4 teaspoon (optional)

Steps

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole wheat pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
  2. While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breast with salt and black pepper, then add it to the skillet.
  3. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and no longer pink in the center. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
  4. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, then add the halved cherry tomatoes and spinach.
  5. Cook until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes soften, about 3-4 minutes. If using, add the red pepper flakes.
  6. Once the pasta is done, drain it and add it to the skillet with the spinach and tomatoes. Toss everything together to combine.
  7. Add the sliced chicken on top and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. Toss gently to combine and serve hot.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 480
  • Protein: 35 g
  • Carbs: 55 g
  • Fiber: 7 g
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 400 mg
  • Cholesterol: 80 mg
  • Total Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Water: 0.25 L

Health Benefits

  • High in protein, which aids in muscle repair and growth.
  • Rich in vitamins and minerals from spinach, promoting overall health.

Tags

AmericanHealthyMain Dish