Chicken Spinoccoli from Uno Pizzeria & Grill features tender grilled chicken, fresh spinach, and broccoli florets tossed in a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce, served over a bed of al dente pasta and topped with melted mozzarella cheese for a rich and savory Italian-inspired dish.
Equipments
- Grill pan or skillet
- Saucepan
- Large pot
- Colander
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Baking dish
- Oven
- Cheese grater
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 ½ cups broccoli florets
- 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne or fettuccine)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt
- Black pepper
Fresh spinach and broccoli florets should be rinsed thoroughly to remove any dirt or grit before cooking. Use boneless, skinless chicken breast for even grilling and optimal tenderness. Heavy cream combined with grated Parmesan cheese creates the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce that defines the dish's rich flavor. Ensure pasta is cooked al dente to maintain a firm texture that complements the creamy sauce. You can recreate Chicken Spinoccoli from Uno Pizzeria & Grill at home by balancing these key ingredients carefully for an authentic Italian-inspired meal.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season chicken breasts with salt and black pepper.
- Heat olive oil in grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Grill chicken breasts until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
- Transfer cooked chicken to cutting board and slice into strips.
- Cook pasta in large pot of salted boiling water until al dente; drain in colander.
- Steam or blanch broccoli florets until just tender; set aside.
- In saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until sauce thickens.
- Season sauce with salt and black pepper to taste.
- In mixing bowl, toss cooked pasta with spinach leaves and broccoli florets.
- Pour creamy garlic Parmesan sauce over pasta and vegetables; toss to combine.
- Transfer pasta mixture to baking dish.
- Arrange grilled chicken strips over the pasta.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top.
- Bake in preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from oven and let rest a few minutes before serving.
Substitution
Chicken Spinoccoli from Uno Pizzeria & Grill copycat menu can easily be adapted depending on what you have available. If fresh spinach or broccoli florets are not on hand, use frozen versions, but be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the sauce. Substituting heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk combined with a tablespoon of flour can create a lighter sauce while maintaining creaminess. Use any short pasta like penne or rigatoni if fettuccine is unavailable, ensuring it is cooked al dente for optimal texture. Mozzarella cheese can be swapped with provolone or fontina for a similar melt and flavor profile with a slight variation.
Tips
Make sure to season the chicken breasts well with salt and black pepper before grilling to enhance the overall flavor of the dish. When cooking pasta, salt the boiling water generously to improve taste and cook until just al dente to avoid mushy texture after baking. For the sauce, add Parmesan cheese gradually while stirring to ensure it melts smoothly and thickens evenly. When assembling, toss the pasta with spinach and broccoli before adding the sauce, so your vegetables remain fresh and evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
Nutritions
Chicken Spinoccoli from Uno Pizzeria & Grill is a nutrient-rich dish providing high protein from boneless, skinless chicken breasts combined with dietary fiber and essential vitamins from fresh spinach and broccoli florets. The creamy garlic Parmesan sauce adds calcium and healthy fats derived from heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. With 12 ounces of pasta as the carbohydrate source, this dish offers sustained energy for your daily activities. Your meal also delivers a balanced blend of macronutrients, vitamins A, C, K, and minerals such as iron and magnesium.
Storage
Store leftover Chicken Spinoccoli in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking to maintain freshness. You can reheat it in the oven at 350degF (175degC) until warmed through, preserving the creamy texture and melted mozzarella. For longer storage, freeze the dish by wrapping it tightly in foil or freezer-safe containers, then thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute the chicken breast with grilled shrimp or Italian sausages for a different protein option while maintaining the dish's rich flavors. Using kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach provides a heartier, earthier green that complements the creamy sauce. Try swapping heavy cream for half-and-half or a blend of cream and milk to lighten the sauce without losing creaminess. To add a smoky depth, finish the dish under the broiler for 2-3 minutes instead of baking, ensuring the mozzarella melts with a golden crust.
Allergies
Chicken Spinoccoli contains dairy ingredients such as heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and mozzarella cheese, which can trigger allergic reactions in individuals with lactose intolerance or milk allergy. The dish also includes wheat-based pasta, posing a risk for those with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease. You should inform the restaurant of any allergies before ordering to ensure safe dining.
Why this recipe?
The Chicken Spinoccoli menu from Uno Pizzeria & Grill is popular for its perfect blend of succulent grilled chicken, fresh broccoli, and rich spinach, all covered in a creamy, cheesy sauce that delivers bold, comforting flavors. The dish features high-quality ingredients combined with expert seasoning, creating a memorable taste experience that appeals to a wide range of palates. Trying to make the copycat recipe allows you to enjoy this restaurant favorite in the comfort of your home while customizing flavors to your preference. Your cooking efforts can recreate the delightful balance of textures and tastes that make the Chicken Spinoccoli a standout choice on Uno's menu.