Ingredients

1 ¼ lbs chicken breast, diced small

1 ¾ teaspoon sweet smoked paprika

1 ½ teaspoon oregano

1 ½ teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon thyme

½ teaspoon black pepper

½ teaspoon salt

12 oz gluten-free farfalle pasta

4 tablespoons dairy-free butter

2 tablespoons minced onion

2 teaspoons Italian seasoning

1 teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon salt

2 cups chicken broth

1 ⅔ tablespoons gluten-free 1:1 flour

2 cups dairy-free heavy cream

2 cups chopped spinach

8 oz dairy-free parmesan, shredded

2 tablespoons reserved pasta water (as needed)

Olive oil (for cooking chicken)

Instructions

Step 1: Boil the gluten-free farfalle pasta in a large pot of salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving a little pasta water, and set the pasta aside.

Step 2: In a small bowl, toss the diced chicken with sweet smoked paprika, oregano, garlic powder, thyme, black pepper, and salt until evenly coated.

Step 3: Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Sear the chicken for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Transfer the chicken to a plate.

Step 4: In the same skillet, melt the dairy-free butter. Add minced onion, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and salt. Simmer for about one minute to develop the flavors.

Step 5: Sprinkle gluten-free flour into the skillet and stir well, scraping the bottom to combine thoroughly.

Step 6: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and dairy-free heavy cream. Add the chopped spinach and whisk until the sauce becomes rich and creamy, simmering for 3 to 4 minutes.

Step 7: Stir in the dairy-free parmesan cheese and cook until melted and the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 8: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly in the sauce. Add reserved pasta water by the tablespoon if the sauce needs thinning.

Step 9: Return the cooked chicken to the pan and gently stir to combine everything well. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

Use canned coconut cream or cashew cream as an alternative dairy-free heavy cream for a nuttier flavor.

For extra flavor, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the sauce before serving.

Try swapping farfalle for gluten-free penne or rotini depending on your preference.

Add mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for additional texture and taste.

FAQs

Can I use regular pasta instead of gluten-free?

Yes, you can use regular pasta if you do not require a gluten-free option. Just cook according to the package instructions and proceed with the recipe as directed.

What dairy-free cream works best for this recipe?

Dairy-free heavy cream alternatives like coconut cream, cashew cream, or commercially available almond or soy-based heavy cream substitutes work well to create a rich and creamy sauce.