Pasta with Chicken and Spinach

This delightful pasta dish combines tender chicken, fresh spinach, and creamy sauce into a satisfying meal. It's a versatile recipe that can easily be adapted to the ingredients you have on hand. Initially, marinated and browned pieces of chicken lend a savory depth to the dish, complemented by the subtle earthiness of spinach. As the pasta cooks, a buttery lemon sauce is prepared to enhance the flavors, bringing everything together harmoniously. This recipe is not just tasty but also easy to make, taking a total of around 35 minutes from start to finish. Whether for a weekday dinner or a weekend treat, this pasta is perfect for impressing your family or guests. Moreover, you can swap the chicken or add herbs to customize it further. With each bite, you’re bound to enjoy the rich blend of textures and tastes, making this a favorite addition to your cooking repertoire.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

250-300 g tagliatelle pasta
6 fresh chicken legs (or fillets, thighs, drumsticks, as available)
100 ml heavy cream
100 ml water
70 g fresh spinach leaves
A small knob of butter
Juice of 1/2 lemon

Spices & Sauces

1-2 teaspoons oil
Salt
Pepper
Additional spices (like special chicken seasoning)

Preparation Time

Total time: **35 minutes**

Step-by-Step Instruction

Gather all necessary ingredients, preparing tagliatelle or substituting with spaghetti if needed.
Clean the chicken legs, remove the skin, and debone them.
Heat a small amount of oil in a pan, adding the chicken to brown for about 3-4 minutes.
Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and any additional spices, stirring well.
While the chicken browns, rinse the spinach leaves thoroughly.
Once the chicken is browned, add the heavy cream and water, reduce the heat, and allow it to simmer for at least 15 minutes.
Meanwhile, set a pot of water on the stove to boil for the pasta, remembering to add a pinch of salt.
As the pasta is nearing completion, melt a small knob of butter in another pan.
Add the spinach to the melted butter, stirring and heating it for 3-4 minutes.
Drizzle the spinach with lemon juice and give it a final stir.
Strain the pasta and place it into a large bowl.
Mix in the sautéed spinach, followed by the chicken and its creamy sauce.
Toss everything together until well combined.
Taste, adjusting the seasoning if necessary, then serve warm.

Tips

For a richer flavor, use chicken thighs.
You can substitute cream with a dairy-free alternative if needed.
Add herbs like basil or parsley for added freshness.

Nutritions

Estimated calories per serving: 450-500
Protein: 35g
Fats: 20g
Carbs: 50g

Variations

For a vegetarian option, replace chicken with mushrooms.
Whole-wheat pasta can be used for a healthier alternative.
Add a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a side of garlic bread or a fresh garden salad.
Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
Serve with a glass of white wine, like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.

Best Places

Cafe del Mar - Chic spot with ocean views, perfect for a relaxing meal. Location: Sant Antoni de Portmany, Ibiza, Spain.
La Trattoria - Known for handmade pasta, offering an authentic Italian experience. Location: Via dello Statuto 60, Rome, Italy.
The Pasta Factory - Offers a creative twist to traditional pasta dishes. Location: 77 Shudehill, Manchester, UK.
Pasta e Basta - Combines culinary expertise with an enjoyable dining atmosphere. Location: Lange Leidsedwarsstraat 129, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
Ristorante Da Vicari - Renowned for its exquisite take on Italian classics. Location: Piazza Sandro Pertini 13, Florence, Italy.
Pasta Paradiso - A delightful mix of modern and traditional Italian cuisine. Location: Via Principe Amedeo 126, Rome, Italy.
Osteria del Mare - Coastal vibes and seafood-inspired pasta dishes. Location: Viale Italia, Grosseto, Italy.
Barilla Restaurant - Fresh, quality ingredients served in creative ways. Location: 1301 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC, USA.
Pasta Bar - Innovative pasta served in a vibrant setting. Location: 2202 Main St, Santa Monica, CA, USA.
Tavernetta - Celebrated for its fine selection of Italian wines and meals. Location: 1889 16th St Mall, Denver, CO, USA.