“Are you tired of the same old weeknight meals? I get it—sometimes, time can slip away, and cooking feels like a race against the clock. That’s where this Simple Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta comes to the rescue! In just under 30 minutes, you can whip up a comforting dish brimming with savory flavors and a vibrant twist of basil pesto. This easy chicken pasta recipe features tender chicken and fresh spinach, making it a delightful crowd-pleaser for the whole family. Whether it’s a busy Tuesday night or a cozy dinner with friends, this creamy delight brings joy to your table without the fuss. Curious about how to make this quick and satisfying dish? Let’s dive in!”
Why is this pasta recipe a must-try?
Quick and Easy: This Simple Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta can be made in under 30 minutes, making it the ideal choice for busy weeknights.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of savory chicken, rich cream, and vibrant pesto creates a deliciously satisfying dish that will leave your taste buds dancing.
Family-Friendly: This meal is a hit with both kids and adults, making it perfect for a crowd-pleasing dinner that everyone will love.
Versatile Variations: Feel free to experiment! Add in roasted veggies or substitute chicken with shrimp for a delicious twist that keeps things interesting.
Meal Prep Friendly: Cook and store components for an easy weeknight meal; simply reheat when you’re ready to enjoy.
For another quick dinner, try the rich and creamy flavors of Pot Cajun Chicken or the light and zesty Skinny White Chicken.
Simple Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Ingredients
For the Pasta
• Pasta – Choose any short pasta shape like penne or rotini for the best sauce adherence.
For the Chicken
• Chicken Breasts – Sliced for even cooking; can be substituted with turkey or tofu if desired.
• Garlic Powder – Enhances savory flavor; fresh garlic can be used as an alternative.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to your taste.
For the Sauce
• Olive Oil – Adds flavor when cooking the chicken; can be replaced with vegetable oil or butter.
• Butter – Enhances richness; for a dairy-free option, use olive oil.
• All-Purpose Flour – Thickens the sauce; gluten-free flour makes a good substitute.
• Chicken Broth – Keeps the sauce light and flavorful; swap for vegetable broth in vegetarian versions.
• Heavy Cream – Provides a rich and creamy texture; coconut cream is a fantastic lighter alternative.
• Pesto – The star of the sauce; choose a quality store-bought pesto for best results.
• Lemon Juice – Brightens the flavor profile; you can use white wine vinegar in a pinch.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Add sweetness and texture; fresh cherry tomatoes work well, too.
For the Greens
• Fresh Baby Spinach – Offers color and nutrition; feel free to use kale or arugula if you prefer.
For the Finish
• Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese (optional) – Adds a nutty, salty finish; you can omit it for dairy-free diets.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Simple Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta
Step 1: Boil the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, add in your chosen pasta, such as penne or rotini, and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically around 8-10 minutes. Before draining, reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water; this will help adjust the sauce later. Drain and set the pasta aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, season the sliced chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste. In a large skillet over medium heat, add a tablespoon of olive oil and a tablespoon of butter. Once melted, add the chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until it turns golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove from the skillet, let it rest for a few minutes, then slice into strips.
Step 3: Make the Roux
In the same skillet, using the residual juices, sprinkle 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour over the surface. Stir constantly for about 1 minute until the flour is lightly browned. This roux will create a base for your creamy sauce, and you should notice a subtle aroma developing. Be careful not to burn the flour as you move swiftly to the next step.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
Gradually pour in 1 cup of chicken broth while whisking to prevent lumps. Follow with 1 cup of heavy cream, ½ cup of pesto, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, and a handful of sun-dried tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally, and allow it to thicken slightly for about 4-5 minutes until the sauce clings to the back of a spoon.
Step 5: Incorporate the Spinach
Once your sauce has thickened, add 2-3 cups of fresh baby spinach to the skillet. Stir gently until the spinach wilts, which should take about 1-2 minutes. The vibrant green color will liven up your creamy chicken pesto pasta, creating an inviting visual. This is also a great moment to taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Chicken
Finally, add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing it with the creamy sauce and spinach to combine everything seamlessly. If you find the sauce too thick, gradually stir in the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Gently fold in the sliced chicken, ensuring every piece is well-coated in deliciousness before serving.
Expert Tips for Simple Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta
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Perfect Pasta Texture: Always cook pasta al dente; it will continue to cook once combined with the sauce. This keeps it firm and prevents mushiness in your simple creamy chicken pesto pasta.
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Juicy Chicken Every Time: Let the chicken rest after cooking. This crucial step retains moisture and ensures each bite is tender and succulent.
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Sauce Consistency: Reserve some pasta water before draining. This starchy liquid is a magic potion for achieving the perfect sauce consistency—add it gradually as needed.
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Fresh Pesto Matters: If using store-bought pesto, check for brands that use fresh basil. A quality pesto can make all the difference in flavor, elevating your creamy chicken pesto pasta.
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Don’t Overheat the Sauce: Once the sauce is thickened, avoid boiling it vigorously. High heat can cause the cream to separate, ruining that creamy texture you crave.
How to Store and Freeze Simple Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore creaminess.
Freezer: It’s best to avoid freezing this dish, as cream sauces may separate upon thawing, affecting the texture of your creamy chicken pesto pasta.
Make-Ahead: If you want to prepare in advance, cook the chicken and sauce separately, then refrigerate them. Combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve for the best taste and texture.
Leftover Tips: If you have leftover pasta, store it separately from the sauce to maintain its texture. This way, you can combine them fresh when reheating.
Make Ahead Options
These Simple Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta components are perfect for busy weeknights! You can cook the chicken and prepare the creamy pesto sauce up to 3 days in advance; simply refrigerate them in airtight containers. To maintain quality, ensure the chicken is cooled before storing and that the sauce is mixed well to prevent separation. On the night you plan to serve, cook the pasta fresh and combine it with the reheated chicken and sauce. Toss in a handful of fresh spinach for that vibrant touch. This way, you’ll enjoy a delightful meal that tastes just as amazing while saving time!
What to Serve with Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta with Spinach
When you whip up this delightful dish, why not enhance the experience with some perfectly paired sides and drinks?
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Garlic Bread: A classic companion that soaks up the creamy sauce, adding a crunchy texture to each comforting bite. Nothing beats the aroma of freshly baked garlic bread wafting through your kitchen!
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Simple Side Salad: Crisp greens drizzled with a light vinaigrette offer a refreshing counterbalance to the rich pasta, lightening up your meal. Toss in cherry tomatoes and cucumbers for extra color and crunch!
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Steamed Broccoli: Tender, vibrant green broccoli adds a nutritious touch and helps to round out your plate. Plus, it’s an effortless way to sneak in some extra veggies for a balanced dinner.
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Roasted Vegetables: Mix in seasonal favorites like zucchini and bell peppers, caramelized to perfection. Their earthy sweetness complements the creamy pasta beautifully, while adding stunning color to your meal.
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Crispy Parmesan Zucchini Fries: These golden bites add a delightful crunch and a hint of cheesy goodness that echoes the flavors of the pasta dish, making it a fun and tasty snack as you dine.
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Chilled White Wine: A glass of dry Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio creates a lovely pairing, cutting through the richness of the creamy sauce while enhancing the basil pesto’s herbal notes.
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Lemon Sorbet: For a light, refreshing dessert, serve lemon sorbet to cleanse the palate after enjoying your creamy chicken pesto pasta. Its bright citrus flavor is the perfect finale to a satisfying meal!
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Cheesy Garlic Knots: Soft, fluffy knots brushed with melted garlic butter and topped with Parmesan make for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that everyone will love! A great way to kick off your pasta night.
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Sparkling Water with Lime: A bubbly, zesty drink to cleanse the palate and elevate your dining experience. Refreshing and easy to prepare, it perfectly accompanies the rich flavors of your meal.
Simple Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Variations
Feel free to explore your culinary creativity with these delightful twists that elevate your dish!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for a lighter, dairy-free option. The subtle coconut flavor adds a nice touch while keeping it creamy.
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Vegetarian: Swap chicken for sautéed mushrooms or grilled eggplant. This adds a hearty, earthy flavor and texture that’s comforting and satisfying.
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Seafood Twist: Replace chicken with shrimp or salmon for a seafood flair. Lightly sauté the seafood until just cooked for a delicious alternative.
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Herb-Infused: Boost flavor by adding fresh basil or parsley in addition to the pesto. This enhances freshness and aroma, bringing an even brighter note to the dish.
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Heat Level: Introduce a kick by adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. It creates a lively contrasting flavor that will tantalize the taste buds.
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Extra Veggies: Toss in roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes for added flavor and nutrition. These veggies introduce sweet notes and a satisfying crunch.
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Different Pasta Shapes: Experiment with different types of pasta, such as farfalle or whole wheat. Each shape brings unique texture and presentation to the table.
For another quick and delightful meal, consider the rich and creamy options like Slow Cooker Chicken or the zesty freshness of Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta. You’re sure to find something your family will love!
Simple Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe FAQs
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
You can use any short pasta shape like penne or rotini for your creamy chicken pesto pasta. These shapes hold onto the sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor!
How should I store leftovers?
Absolutely! Store any leftover creamy chicken pesto pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, do so gently on low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to bring back the sauce’s richness.
Can I freeze creamy chicken pesto pasta?
It’s best to avoid freezing this dish. Cream sauces, like the one in your creamy chicken pesto pasta, may separate upon thawing, leading to an unappetizing texture.
How do I ensure the chicken stays juicy?
To ensure your chicken remains juicy, let it rest after cooking. This step allows the juices to redistribute, making every bite tender and flavorful. Additionally, using a meat thermometer will help confirm that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Can I use a different protein or vegetables?
Very much so! Feel free to substitute chicken with turkey, shrimp, or even tofu for a plant-based version. You can also add roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for more flavors and textures, enhancing your creamy chicken pesto pasta experience!
Simple Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta for the Ultimate Comfort Dinner
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Boil a large pot of salted water, add pasta, and cook until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.
- Season chicken with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook in a skillet with olive oil and butter until golden and cooked through.
- Sprinkle flour over residual juices in the skillet, stir for 1 minute until browned.
- Gradually whisk in chicken broth, cream, pesto, lemon juice, and sun-dried tomatoes. Simmer until thickened.
- Add spinach to the sauce, stirring until wilted. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Combine drained pasta and chicken into the skillet, stir in reserved pasta water for desired consistency.
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