Asiago Chicken Pasta with Sun-dried Tomato and Spinach 🍝🌞

This flavorful dish combines tender chicken, creamy Asiago cheese, and vibrant spinach with the rich taste of sun-dried tomatoes. It's a delightful blend that's perfect for a cozy dinner or when you want to impress your guests with a meal that looks and tastes gourmet. The creamy sauce envelops the pasta beautifully, making each bite a savory delight! Pair it with a crisp salad or a glass of white wine for a complete experience. 🍷🍃

Ingredients

For the pasta

• 12 oz of pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your favorite type)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, sliced
• 3 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup Asiago cheese, grated
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil, for garnish
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Boil a pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Sauté the chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken strips with salt and pepper. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

🥄 Make sure not to overcrowd the pan while cooking the chicken. This allows for better browning!

3. Create the sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the sun-dried tomatoes and spinach, cooking until the spinach has wilted.

4. Combine ingredients: Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Gradually add the Asiago cheese and Parmesan, stirring continuously until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is creamy.

🧀 For an extra cheesy experience, reserve a bit of Asiago cheese to sprinkle on top before serving!

5. Toss in the pasta: Add the cooked pasta and seasoned chicken to the skillet, tossing everything together to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy sauce.

6. Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh basil and, if desired, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a kick!

🌿 Feel free to add a dash of lemon juice before serving for a fresh zing!

Variations

• Vegetarian: Substitute the chicken with grilled mushrooms or tofu. This will give the dish a hearty texture while keeping it meat-free. 🍄
• Low-carb: Use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead of traditional pasta for a lighter option! 🍏
• Extra veggies: Include bell peppers or artichoke hearts to amp up the nutrition and flavor! 🥗
• Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy twist that will warm you up!

Enjoy your Asiago Chicken Pasta with Sun-dried Tomato and Spinach, and indulge in its creamy goodness and vibrant flavors! 🍽️✨