This Chicken & Spinach Skillet Pasta with Lemon is the perfect weeknight dinner solution: simple, flavorful, and ready in just 30 minutes. The bright lemon flavor pairs beautifully with tender chicken, wilted spinach, and al dente pasta. Best of all, everything cooks in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or feeding the family, this dish is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients
For the Chicken & Pasta:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup water
- 8 ounces penne pasta (or your favorite pasta)
- 3 cups fresh spinach (roughly chopped)
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
For Garnish:
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley (chopped)
- Lemon wedges for serving
Preparation
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
3. Cook the Pasta:
Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and water. Bring to a simmer, then add the pasta. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
4. Add Spinach and Chicken:
Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the fresh spinach and cooked chicken. Let the spinach wilt for about 2 minutes.
5. Add Lemon:
Stir in the lemon zest and juice. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to let the flavors meld.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Top with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side for an extra citrusy kick.
Variations
- Swap the Protein: Use shrimp, turkey, or tofu for a different twist.
- Add Veggies: Incorporate mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or artichoke hearts for more flavor and texture.
- Make it Dairy-Free: Replace the heavy cream with coconut milk and skip the Parmesan.
Cooking Note
For the best results, ensure the chicken is cut into even pieces to cook uniformly. Also, avoid overcooking the pasta; a slight al dente texture ensures a firm bite.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pasta with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad. A chilled glass of white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, pairs beautifully with the lemony flavors.
Tips
- Pre-Cook Prep: Chop all ingredients ahead of time for a smoother cooking process.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth to prevent drying out.
- Substitute Pasta: Use gluten-free pasta or whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 460
- Protein: 30g
- Carbs: 45g
- Fat: 18g
- Sodium: 560mg
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, using rotisserie or leftover chicken can save time. Simply add it in step 4 when combining with spinach.
Can I make this ahead of time?
This dish is best served fresh, but you can make it a few hours in advance. Reheat gently with a bit of broth or cream to restore the creamy texture.
What pasta works best for this recipe?
Penne, farfalle, or fusilli are great choices as they hold the sauce well, but any pasta will work.
Conclusion
Chicken & Spinach Skillet Pasta with Lemon is a versatile, quick, and comforting meal that brings freshness and brightness to your dinner table. Give this one-pan recipe a try, and you’ll find yourself coming back for seconds.