Creamy Spinach, Zucchini, and Chicken Pasta

Are you looking for a wholesome, delicious, and easy-to-make dinner that everyone in your family will love? Look no further! This Creamy Spinach, Zucchini, and Chicken Pasta is a perfect choice. With tender chicken thighs, fresh spinach, and nutritious zucchini all wrapped up in a luscious creamy sauce, this dish is not only flavorful but also packed with nutrients. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be a meal prep favorite, making your weeknights easier and more delightful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutritious and Balanced: This pasta dish is loaded with lean protein from the chicken, vitamins, and minerals from the spinach and zucchini, and the creamy sauce adds a delightful richness.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, you can have this meal ready in about 30 minutes.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: It reheats beautifully, making it an excellent choice for preparing in advance and enjoying throughout the week.

Ingredients

To make this delectable Creamy Spinach, Zucchini, and Chicken Pasta, you will need:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 8 ounces of pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or your choice)
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs and cook until they are browned and fully cooked, which should take about 5-7 minutes per side. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

2. Cook the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the butter and minced garlic. Cook the garlic until it becomes fragrant, which takes about 1 minute. Next, add the zucchini slices to the skillet. Sauté the zucchini until it is tender and lightly browned, which should take about 3-5 minutes.

3. Make the Sauce

Pour the chicken broth into the skillet with the zucchini and bring it to a simmer. Add the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

4. Cook the Pasta

While the sauce is simmering, cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Once the pasta is al dente, drain it and set it aside.

5. Combine Ingredients

Add the fresh spinach to the sauce in the skillet. Cook until the spinach is wilted, which should only take a minute or two. Slice the cooked chicken thighs and add them to the sauce. Mix well to ensure the chicken is coated with the creamy sauce.

6. Assemble the Dish

Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce, spinach, zucchini, and chicken in the skillet. Toss everything together to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce and all the ingredients are well-distributed.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Garnish the creamy pasta with freshly chopped basil or parsley. Serve the dish immediately and enjoy the wonderful combination of flavors and textures.

Tips for Meal Prep

This Creamy Spinach, Zucchini, and Chicken Pasta is an excellent meal prep option. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Storage: Store the pasta in airtight containers in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the pasta in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to help loosen the sauce if it has thickened in the fridge.
• Doubling the Recipe: If you want to prepare a larger batch for meal prep, simply double the ingredients. This recipe scales up easily.

Creamy Spinach, Zucchini, and Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together the best of comfort food and nutritious ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for your family or preparing meals in advance for a busy week, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Try it out and enjoy the delicious blend of flavors and the satisfaction of a homemade meal that’s both healthy and indulgent!