Spaghetti with chicken breast and spinach

Spaghetti with chicken breast and spinach

If you are looking for a delicious and quick recipe that brings the flavors of the Mediterranean to your table, this spaghetti with chicken breast and spinach is the perfect choice. Inspired by the culinary talent of Teo, an exceptional housewife who delights us with wonderful recipes, this dish is a savory combination of simple yet flavorful ingredients.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 200 gr spaghetti
- 100 gr baby spinach
- 1 chicken breast (approximately 300-400 gr)
- 150 gr grated parmesan
- 500 gr tomatoes (approximately 6-7 medium tomatoes)
- 1 tablespoon pepper paste
- 6-7 garlic cloves
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon herbs de Provence

Preparation:

1. Preparing the roasted tomatoes: Start by preheating the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Wash the tomatoes well and cut them into quarters. Place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, then drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt and 1 teaspoon of herbs de Provence. Roast the tomatoes for 40 minutes until they become soft and slightly caramelized, releasing their flavors.

2. Boiling the spaghetti: While the tomatoes are in the oven, fill a pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add salt and put in the spaghetti. Boil according to the package instructions, usually between 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Once done, drain well and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. This trick will help them stay firm and not stick together.

3. Preparing the chicken: In a large skillet, add 4 tablespoons of olive oil and heat over medium heat. Cut the chicken breast into small cubes and season with salt, pepper, and pepper paste. Then, add it to the skillet and sauté for 5-7 minutes until the meat is golden and changes color.

4. Adding the spinach and tomatoes: Once the chicken is cooked, add the spinach, which should be well washed and drained. Gently stir to combine the ingredients, and after a minute, add the roasted tomatoes from the oven. Let everything cook on low heat to allow the flavors to blend.

5. Finishing the dish: After the ingredients have combined, add the spaghetti to the skillet and carefully mix everything. Let it cook on low heat for another 3 minutes. Before serving, taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking, adding more salt or pepper if necessary.

6. Serving: Remove the skillet from the heat and add the grated parmesan, stirring gently to incorporate evenly. Serve the dish warm, sprinkling a little more parmesan on top for added flavor.

Practical tips:
- Ingredients: Choose well-ripened tomatoes, as they will add sweetness and a rich flavor to the dish. Baby spinach is more delicate and tastier than mature spinach, so opt for the baby spinach variety.
- Variations: You can experiment with other types of pasta, such as penne or fusilli, to change the texture. You can also add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to diversify the recipe.
- Pairings: This dish pairs perfectly with a glass of dry white wine or freshly squeezed lemonade. It is ideal for a family dinner or a gathering with friends.

Nutritional benefits:
This spaghetti recipe with chicken breast and spinach is not only delicious but also healthy. The chicken provides essential proteins, while spinach is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K, vitamin A, and iron. Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that contributes to heart health.

Approximate calories per serving: 450-500 kcal, depending on the amount of parmesan used.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use whole grain pasta? Yes, using whole grain pasta will add fiber and nutrients, making the dish even healthier.
- How can I store leftovers? Keep the dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the oven, adding a little olive oil to prevent drying out.

This spaghetti recipe with chicken breast and spinach is not just a simple dish, but also a way to add a touch of joy to every meal. So get ready to enjoy flavors, textures, and colors that will delight your senses. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 200 g of spaghetti, 100 g of baby spinach, 1 chicken breast, 150 g of grated parmesan, 500 g of tomatoes (6-7 tomatoes), 1 tablespoon of pepper paste, 6-7 cloves of garlic, 4 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, pepper to taste, 1 teaspoon of herbs de Provence.