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Simple Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta with Spinach

Simple Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta with Spinach in 30 Minutes

A quick and easy recipe for Simple Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta with Spinach, perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Pasta Penne, rotini, or linguine can be used.
For the Chicken
  • 2 breasts Chicken Breasts Slice lengthwise for even cooking.
For the Sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Substitute with fresh garlic for stronger flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can replace with any neutral cooking oil.
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Use more olive oil for a lighter option.
  • 2 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour Cornstarch or gluten-free flour can be used for gluten-free needs.
  • 1 cup Chicken Broth Use vegetable broth as a lighter alternative.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Consider half-and-half or evaporated milk for a lighter version.
  • 1/2 cup Pesto Store-bought or homemade for better flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice Optional but enhances flavor.
For the Veggies
  • 1/2 cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes Fresh cherry tomatoes can be used instead.
  • 4 ounces Fresh Baby Spinach Other leafy greens can substitute if spinach isn’t available.
For the Finish
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese Can be swapped with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • large skillet
  • whisk
  • measuring cups
  • measuring spoons

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Chicken: Season chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Sauté chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side until cooked through. Remove from skillet and let rest.
  3. Slice the Chicken: Once rested, slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
  4. Make the Roux: In the same skillet, whisk in the flour for about 1 minute to create a roux. Keep it light without browning.
  5. Add Liquid Ingredients: Gradually stir in chicken broth, then add heavy cream, mixing until smooth. Stir in pesto, lemon juice, and sun-dried tomatoes, simmering for 3-5 minutes until thickened.
  6. Incorporate the Spinach: Add fresh spinach, cooking until wilted—about 2-3 minutes. Ensure everything is well combined.
  7. Combine with Pasta: Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet, ensuring it's well coated. Add reserved pasta water as needed for desired sauce consistency.
  8. Serve and Garnish: Plate the pasta, top with sliced chicken and Parmesan cheese if desired, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 2000IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding broth or cream as needed. For longer storage, freeze the sauce separately for up to 2 months.

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