Name: Chicken Florentine Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Ingredients: 12 oz penne pasta; 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 2 cups baby spinach; 1 cup heavy cream; ½ cup grated parmesan cheese; ½ cup chicken broth; 1 tbsp butter; ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Chicken Florentine Pasta is a creamy and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a rich parmesan sauce. With its smooth texture and delightful taste, this dish is a perfect choice for a comforting weeknight dinner. The combination of savory ingredients and quick preparation makes it a go-to for busy nights when you need a satisfying meal in less than 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy and Flavorful – The parmesan-infused sauce pairs perfectly with juicy chicken and fresh spinach.
Quick and Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Healthy and Nutritious – Fresh ingredients like spinach and tomatoes add a nutritional boost.
One-Pan Meal – Cook everything in a single skillet for easy cleanup.

Ingredients

12 oz penne pasta
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
2 cups baby spinach
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon butter
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions.
Drain and set aside.

2. Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
Season the chicken pieces with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Cook for 6-7 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through.
Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3. Sauté the Garlic and Tomatoes

In the same skillet, melt the butter.
Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until softened.

4. Make the Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream, chicken broth, and grated parmesan cheese.
Stir until the sauce thickens slightly.
If desired, add red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.

5. Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the fresh spinach.
Stir until the spinach wilts.
Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together to coat in the creamy sauce.

6. Serve & Enjoy

Garnish with extra parmesan cheese and serve warm!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 servings
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Add More Vegetables – Try adding mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra texture and nutrients.
Make it Spicy – Increase the red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce.
Gluten-Free Option – Swap out the penne pasta for a gluten-free alternative.
Lighter Version – Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of parmesan.

Storage/Reheating

Storage – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating – Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little extra cream or chicken broth to loosen the sauce if needed.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, fettuccine, spaghetti, or farfalle work well as substitutes for penne.

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, but thaw and drain it first to remove excess moisture before adding it to the sauce.

How can I make the sauce richer?

For a richer sauce, add more parmesan cheese or a splash of white wine.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, cook the sauce and chicken ahead, then combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F, or the meat should be white with no pink inside.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs will add even more flavor.

Can I freeze this dish?

It’s best eaten fresh, but you can freeze the sauce separately for up to 2 months and add fresh pasta when serving.

What other herbs can I add?

Fresh basil, oregano, or parsley can enhance the dish’s flavor.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use dairy-free parmesan alternatives.

What should I serve with this dish?

A side salad or garlic bread pairs perfectly with this pasta.

Conclusion

Chicken Florentine Pasta is a simple, creamy, and satisfying meal that brings together chicken, spinach, tomatoes, and a parmesan-rich sauce. It’s quick to make, comforting, and perfect for any weeknight dinner. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just craving something indulgent, this dish is sure to hit the spot!