Creamy Chicken Pasta: A Perfect 30-Minute Family Meal

Here’s a recipe for One Pan Chicken & Veggie Bake that fits the concept of “30-minute meals for families” and not only that!!!!!!

Meal Prep and Cooking Time for Creamy Chicken Pasta

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:
   • Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken:
   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cubed chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and cooked through (about 5-6 minutes). Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
   • In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed. Sauté the onions, garlic, and red bell pepper until softened (about 3-4 minutes).
4. Make the Sauce:
   • Reduce the heat to medium and pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Add Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well and let it simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Combine Everything:
   • Add the cooked chicken and spinach to the skillet. Stir until the spinach wilts.
   • Toss in the cooked pasta and Parmesan cheese. Mix until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
6. Serve:
   • Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm. Pair with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete family meal.

Creamy Chicken Pasta

Ingredients (Serves 4-5):

• 1 pound (450g) penne or fusilli pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish

Why This Recipe Works:

• Balanced and Filling: Protein from chicken, carbs from pasta, and vitamins from veggies.
• Customizable: Add mushrooms, broccoli, or substitute spinach with kale.
• One-Pot Convenience: Minimal cleanup for busy families.

Calories	Protein (g)	Carbohydrates (g)	Fiber (g)	Sugars (g)	Fat (g)	Saturated Fat (g)
580	35	55	4	6	22	10