Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta with Spinach and Sun-dried Tomatoes

If you’re looking for a delicious weeknight dinner that’s quick, satisfying, and bursting with flavor, look no further than this Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta with Spinach and Sun-dried Tomatoes. This dish combines tender chicken breasts with creamy pesto sauce, fresh baby spinach, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes, all tossed together with your favorite pasta. In just about 30 minutes, you can have a restaurant-quality meal right at home that the whole family will love.

What Sets This Recipe Apart

This Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta with Spinach and Sun-dried Tomatoes stands out due to its vibrant flavors and comforting textures. The combination of creamy sauce and the bright freshness of spinach and sun-dried tomatoes creates a delightful balance that elevates any dinner table. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or pasta shapes, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Shopping List

• 8 ounces uncooked pasta (penne or fusilli work great)
• 2 chicken breasts, cut in half lengthwise
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon flour
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 3/4 cup heavy/whipping cream
• 1/4 cup pesto
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice (or more to taste)
• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes
• 2 cups (packed) fresh baby spinach
• Freshly grated parmesan for serving (optional)

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Large pot – for boiling the pasta
• Skillet – to cook the chicken and sauce
• Whisk – for mixing the sauce
• Wooden spoon – for stirring
• Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient measurements

Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta with Spinach and Sun-dried Tomatoes: From Prep to Plate

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 8 ounces of uncooked pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

While the pasta is cooking, season the 2 chicken breasts with 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and no longer pink in the center. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest before slicing it into strips.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, lower the heat and add 1 tablespoon of butter. Once melted, whisk in 1 tablespoon of flour and cook for about 1 minute until lightly golden. Gradually pour in 1/2 cup of chicken broth while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. After the broth is combined, stir in 3/4 cup of heavy/whipping cream and 1/4 cup of pesto. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add in the reserved pasta and stir until everything is well coated in the creamy pesto sauce. Toss in 1/4 cup of sun-dried tomatoes and 2 cups of fresh baby spinach. The heat from the pasta will wilt the spinach, making it tender yet vibrant. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Finally, add a squeeze of 1/2 teaspoon of lemon juice for brightness. Serve the Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta with Spinach and Sun-dried Tomatoes hot, topped with freshly grated parmesan if desired. Enjoy your delicious meal!

Ingredient Swaps & Substitutions

• For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk.
• Use zucchini noodles or whole wheat pasta for a healthier alternative.
• Swap chicken breast for shrimp or tofu for a different protein source.
• Add seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for more color and nutrition.

Behind-the-Scenes Notes

This dish is not only easy to make, but it also holds up well as leftovers. When making your Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta with Spinach and Sun-dried Tomatoes, keep a few tips in mind:

• Ensure your chicken is cooked thoroughly to avoid foodborne illnesses.
• Feel free to adjust the amount of pesto based on your taste preference; some love it extra herby!
• If you find sun-dried tomatoes too tangy, you can substitute them with roasted red peppers.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

This creamy pasta dish is perfect for meal prep! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. You can also enjoy it cold as a pasta salad!

Popular Questions

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the creamy sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Just boil the pasta and combine everything when you’re ready to serve. This makes it a quick option for busy weeknights.

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Penne, fusilli, or farfalle are excellent choices as they hold the sauce well. However, you can use any pasta that you prefer or have on hand.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

While it’s possible to freeze the Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta with Spinach and Sun-dried Tomatoes, the texture may change slightly when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but if you must freeze it, make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container for up to a month.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add more vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.

Desserts to Finish

• Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake – A delightful twist on classic pasta.
• Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Penne – A rich and flavorful option to satisfy your cravings.
• Classic chocolate mousse – A light and airy end to a hearty meal.
• Fruit tart – For a refreshing and sweet finish.

Before You Go

This Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta with Spinach and Sun-dried Tomatoes is a delightful dish that combines simplicity and flavor. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a creamy pasta dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!