Indulge in a creamy, dreamy delight that will transport your taste buds straight to Italy with our Spinach Chicken Alfredo Pasta! This dish combines tender fettuccine, succulent shredded chicken, and vibrant fresh spinach, all enveloped in a rich and velvety Alfredo sauce that’s simply irresistible. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or an impressive meal for guests, this recipe is quick to prepare, taking just 35 minutes from start to finish. Get ready to impress your loved ones with a dish that’s not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add fettuccine pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- While pasta is cooking, prepare the sauce. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Pour heavy cream into the skillet with garlic and butter. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly to prevent scorching. Reduce heat to low.
- Gradually whisk in grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add shredded chicken to the sauce and stir to combine and heat through.
- Add fresh spinach to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes until the spinach wilts and becomes bright green.
- Drain the cooked pasta and add it directly to the skillet. Toss everything together, using reserved pasta water if needed to adjust sauce consistency.
- Remove from heat and let sit for 2-3 minutes to allow sauce to thicken slightly.
- Serve hot, optionally garnishing with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh ground black pepper.
Tips
- Perfect Pasta: To ensure your fettuccine is cooked to perfection, always follow the package instructions and taste it a minute or two before the suggested cooking time. It should be al dente, providing a nice bite.
- Creamy Sauce: When adding the heavy cream, keep the heat on medium-low to avoid scorching. Stir constantly to achieve that smooth, luscious texture that Alfredo is known for.
- Cheese Matters: Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture. Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the creaminess of your sauce.
- Pasta Water Magic: Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water! This starchy liquid can be a game-changer for adjusting the sauce's consistency, making it perfectly cling to your pasta.
- Spinach Secrets: For a vibrant color and maximum flavor, add the spinach just at the end of cooking. It will wilt quickly while still retaining its bright green hue and nutritional benefits.
- Garnish for Greatness: For an extra touch of elegance, serve your dish with a sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese and a crack of fresh black pepper. It elevates the presentation and adds a burst of flavor!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 550kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Cholesterol: 130mg
