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Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta

Looking for a quick and nutritious vegetarian lunch option? This one-pan lunch recipe is packed with vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients, making it the perfect choice for busy days. Afterka brings you a simple yet satisfying meal that can be prepared in a flash, leaving you energized and ready to tackle your afternoon. OnePanLunch VegetarianLunch HealthyEating QuickRecipes Nutrition MealPrep WholesomeEats
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Ingredients
  

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced

8 ounces fettuccine or spaghetti

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

1 cup chicken broth

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup fresh spinach, chopped

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook Pasta: Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the fettuccine or spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water, and set aside.

    Cook Chicken: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breast and season with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

      Make Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

        Build the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Let it reduce slightly for about 2-3 minutes. Then add the heavy cream, and stir to combine. Allow it to simmer for another 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.

          Combine Ingredients: Lower the heat and return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir in the chopped spinach until wilted. Then, gradually add the Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.

            Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta and toss well to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time until the desired consistency is reached.

              Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley, and additional grated Parmesan on top if desired.

                Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4