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Creamy Chicken Florentine Pasta

Creamy Chicken Florentine Pasta combines tender chicken with fresh spinach and a rich, creamy sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this customizable dish is sure to become a family favorite.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 Servings
Calories 750 kcal

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Skillet
  • Whisk
  • Colander
  • Wooden spoon

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream (240 ml)
  • 1 cup chicken broth (240 ml)
  • ½ teaspoon nutmeg
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (50 g)

For the Filling

  • 2 large chicken breasts boneless and skinless
  • 3 cups fresh spinach (90 g)
  • 8 oz fettuccine pasta (225 g)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
  • Tip: Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining; it’ll help thicken your sauce later.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

  • While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
  • Tip: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

  • In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in nutmeg, salt, and pepper.

Step 4: Combine Everything

  • Add the cooked pasta and spinach to the skillet, tossing gently until the spinach wilts and everything is evenly coated in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of reserved pasta water.

Step 5: Serve

  • Finish by stirring in grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt through the pasta. Serve immediately, garnished with extra cheese or fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

Pro tips
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor.
  • For more green goodness, add other vegetables like peas or zucchini.
  • Experiment with herbs such as basil or thyme for added complexity.
  • If you're short on time, pre-cooked rotisserie chicken works wonderfully.