Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that's as vibrant as it is delicious? Dive into the world of Italian cuisine with our Skillet Chicken and Spinach Bowties! This quick and easy recipe not only tantalizes your taste buds but also brings a burst of color to your plate, making it perfect for family dinners or impressing guests. With just 35 minutes from prep to plate, you’ll have a hearty meal that’s packed with protein, fresh veggies, and irresistible flavors. Trust us, once you try this delightful combination of tender chicken, al dente pasta, and fresh spinach, you'll want to make it a weekly staple!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz bowtie pasta
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add bowtie pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package directions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain pasta in a colander and set aside.
- Pat chicken breast pieces dry with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper on all sides.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Add halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften and release their juices.
- Stir in fresh spinach and cook for 1-2 minutes until the leaves are wilted but still bright green.
- Add cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet and gently toss all ingredients together, ensuring even coating and heat distribution.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Remove from heat and serve immediately in individual bowls, garnishing with optional fresh herbs like basil or parsley if desired.
Tips
- Perfect Pasta: To ensure your bowtie pasta is perfectly cooked, follow the package instructions closely. Aim for al dente for the best texture, and remember to reserve a cup of pasta water before draining—it can help adjust the sauce later if needed!
- Seasoning Matters: Don't skimp on seasoning your chicken! A good sprinkle of salt and pepper enhances the flavor, and you can even add Italian herbs like oregano or thyme for an extra flavor boost.
- Sautéing Garlic: When adding garlic to the skillet, keep a close eye on it. Garlic can burn quickly, turning bitter, so sauté it just until fragrant—about 30-45 seconds is perfect!
- Fresh Spinach: For the brightest color and best flavor, add the spinach last and cook it just until wilted. Overcooking can make it lose its vibrant green color and nutrients.
- Garnish for Flair: Elevate your dish by garnishing with fresh herbs like basil or parsley before serving. Not only does it add a pop of color, but it also enhances the overall flavor profile of your meal.
- Make it Your Own: Feel free to customize this recipe by adding other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or even incorporating some grated Parmesan cheese for a creamy finish!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 85mg
