One-Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta | Quick & Easy Recipe + Pro Tips for an Unmatched Flavor!
One-Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta Recipe
Introduction
This dish is a delicious fusion of Italian-American cuisine, inspired by creamy Tuscan flavors. A combination of chicken, pasta, cream, and spinach creates a rich and satisfying taste. It is high in protein and carbohydrates, providing enough energy for a complete meal. For diabetics, whole wheat pasta and a reduced amount of cream can be used. Heart patients may opt for low-fat cream and less cheese. Athletes can increase the amount of chicken, while seniors and children may prefer softer pasta for easier digestion.
Benefits & Harms
Benefits:
- Excellent source of protein for muscle growth and energy
- A well-balanced meal with protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats
- Quick and easy to prepare in one pot (minimal cleanup)
- Contains nutritious ingredients like spinach, mushrooms, and chicken
Harms:
- High in calories; reduce pasta quantity for weight loss
- High in saturated fat; not suitable for heart patients unless using low-fat cream
- High sodium content due to Parmesan cheese and chicken broth
Modifications for Special Diets
- Diabetics: Use whole wheat pasta and reduce cream.
- Heart Patients: Use low-fat cream, less cheese, and replace butter with olive oil.
- Athletes: Increase chicken and add more vegetables like bell peppers.
- Seniors: Cook pasta longer for a softer texture.
- Children: Finely chop vegetables and increase cream for a milder taste.
Ingredients For 4 Serves
Chicken breast | 2 pieces (450g) |
Pasta (penne or fusilli) | 450g |
Sliced mushrooms | 200g |
Fresh spinach | 2 cups |
Medium onion | 1 piece |
Garlic | 4 cloves |
Heavy cream | 1 cup |
Chicken broth | 3 cups |
Grated Parmesan cheese | 1 cup |
Olive oil | to taste |
salt | to taste |
pepper | to taste |
cook time
Preparation time | 10 minutes |
Cooking time | 20 minutes |
Total Time | 30 minutes |
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
Calories | 650 calories |
Fat | 25 grams |
Protein | 38 grams |
Carbohydrates | 72 grams |
Fiber | 4 grams |
Let's get started
Step 1
Sauté Chicken and Vegetables:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot. Sauté chopped chicken with salt and pepper until golden. Add onion and garlic, then sauté until fragrant.
Cook Pasta and Combine Ingredients:
- Add pasta, mushrooms, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
Step 2
Add Cream, Cheese, and Spinach:
- Stir in the cream and Parmesan cheese. Finally, add spinach and cook for 3-5 minutes.
Serve and Garnish:
- Transfer to serving plates and garnish with Parmesan cheese, black pepper, and fresh basil.
Additional Tips:
1. Use high-quality pasta for better sauce absorption.
2. Marinate the chicken with your favorite spices for enhanced flavor.
3. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese has a superior taste compared to pre-packaged ones.
4. Save some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if needed.
5. For extra flavor, add sun-dried tomatoes or red pepper flakes.
