Chicken Feta Spinach Pasta

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:
   Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Be sure to salt the water generously. Once cooked al dente, drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water to help create the sauce later. Set the pasta aside.
2. Cook the Chicken:
   While the pasta cooks, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and oregano. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest. Once rested, slice the chicken into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.
3. Sauté the Garlic and Spinach:
   In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. Add the chopped spinach and cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until wilted and tender.
4. Make the Creamy Feta Sauce:
   Once the spinach is cooked, add the chicken broth (or white wine) to the skillet, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes. Then, lower the heat and add the crumbled feta cheese and heavy cream. Stir until the feta begins to melt and the sauce becomes creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
5. Combine the Pasta and Chicken:
   Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the creamy feta sauce to coat it evenly. Then, add the cooked chicken pieces and stir everything together. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). If the sauce needs more moisture, add a little more pasta water.
6. Garnish and Serve:
   Transfer the Chicken Feta Spinach Pasta to serving plates. Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of extra feta cheese, if desired. Serve immediately, and enjoy!

Why This Dish Works

• Chicken: Lean, boneless chicken breasts are a great source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall body function. The chicken adds heartiness and richness to the dish without making it feel too heavy.
• Feta Cheese: Feta adds a unique salty and tangy flavor to the dish. It melts into the sauce beautifully, creating a creamy, slightly tangy base for the pasta. Plus, it’s lower in fat than some other cheeses, making it a great option if you’re looking for a lighter creamy sauce.
• Spinach: Not only does spinach add color and texture, but it’s also packed with vitamins A and C, iron, and fiber, all of which are essential for overall health. Plus, spinach wilts down, allowing you to pack in a good amount of vegetables without overwhelming the dish.
• Cream and Broth: A combination of heavy cream and chicken broth creates a creamy, velvety sauce that isn’t too rich. You can even substitute the cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter option that still adds creaminess and tang.

Customizing Your Chicken Feta Spinach Pasta

One of the best things about this dish is how customizable it is. Here are a few ways to make it your own:

1. Add More Veggies: Boost the nutritional value by adding other veggies such as mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or zucchini. You can also throw in some artichoke hearts, cherry tomatoes, or even roasted red peppers for added flavor and color.
2. Use a Different Protein: Not a fan of chicken? No problem! Swap in shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian version. Grilled chicken or rotisserie chicken works just as well, too, for a quicker option.
3. Make it Spicy: For a bit of heat, add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce or sprinkle some jalapeños over the top for an extra kick. You can even swap the feta for a spicier cheese like pepper jack.
4. Use Whole-Grain or Gluten-Free Pasta: If you’re looking to make the dish more wholesome, consider using whole-wheat pasta for added fiber or gluten-free pasta if you’re avoiding gluten. The dish will taste just as delicious with either option.
5. Make it Lighter: If you want to cut back on calories or fat, you can replace the heavy cream with Greek yogurt or coconut milk for a lighter sauce. Use a lower-fat feta to reduce the richness further.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is hearty on its own, but here are a few ideas to round out the meal:

• Garlic Bread: Serve with a side of crispy garlic bread or a fresh side salad to balance the richness of the pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Pair this dish with roasted asparagus, brussels sprouts, or broccoli for a healthy, fiber-packed side.
• Wine Pairing: This pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. A light red wine like Pinot Noir also works well if you prefer reds.

Conclusion

Chicken Feta Spinach Pasta is a crowd-pleasing, one-pan wonder that brings together lean protein, fresh greens, and a creamy, tangy sauce for a satisfying meal. With its rich flavor profile and healthy ingredients, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special weekend meal. It’s quick to make, customizable to your tastes, and full of nutrients that will leave you feeling both nourished and satisfied.

So next time you’re in the mood for a comforting yet healthy pasta dish, grab some chicken, feta, and spinach, and make this flavorful skillet pasta—your taste buds will thank you!