Welcome to a culinary journey where Italian comfort meets Zimbabwean flair! This Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta with Garlic Spinach is not just a pasta dish; it’s a celebration of flavors that marries the richness of a classic Alfredo sauce with the freshness of spinach, a staple in Zimbabwean cuisine. Picture this — succulent chicken simmered in a luscious creamy sauce, complemented by the earthy notes of garlic and vibrant greens. This dish is perfect for family gatherings, special occasions, or even as a personal indulgence. Better yet, it can serve as a delicious offering on Zimbo Menu, Zimbabwe’s local food marketplace, allowing you to share your culinary creations with others. Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe!
Ingredients
- 300g of fettuccine or any pasta of your choice
- 2 boneless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 200g fresh spinach leaves
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Red chili flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water for later use.
2. Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until golden and cooked through, approximately 6–8 minutes. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Create the Alfredo Sauce
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine, and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes. This is the base of your Creamy Chicken Alfredo. Add the grated Parmesan cheese gradually, stirring continuously until the cheese melts completely. If the sauce is too thick, feel free to add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.
4. Add the Spinach
Now it’s time to add the garlic spinach! Toss in the fresh spinach leaves and stir until they have wilted, about 1-2 minutes. This will infuse the Alfredo sauce with a beautiful green hue while adding a healthy component to the dish.
5. Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix well. Add the cooked pasta and gently toss everything together until the pasta is coated in the creamy sauce. Adjust seasoning if necessary, and sprinkle some red chili flakes for an extra kick if desired.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Plate your creamy chicken Alfredo pasta and garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of black pepper. Enjoy this delightful fusion dish that’s perfect for sharing with friends or family. Imagine presenting this dish at a gathering or offering it on Zimbo Menu, inviting others to experience the unique blend of flavors you’ve created.
Cooking Tips
- For an extra flavor boost, consider marinating the chicken in lemon juice and spices before cooking.
- If you prefer a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a blend of Greek yogurt and milk.
- Feel free to customize the dish by adding vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for additional texture and taste.
Why Share on Zimbo Menu?
This recipe, along with many others, can inspire you to create meals that are perfect for sharing or even selling on Zimbo Menu. By showcasing your culinary skills, you can bring a taste of Zimbabwean and fusion cuisine to your community. Embrace the opportunity to connect with food lovers while also exploring potential business avenues. Consider downloading the Zimbo Menu app to discover how it can fit into your hobbies or business endeavors.
Let this Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta with Garlic Spinach be your gateway to exploring the culinary possibilities of Zimbabwean-inspired dishes that are both simple to make and delicious. Happy cooking!
About The Author
