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–+ servings
Simple Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

Simple Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Ready in 30 Minutes

This Simple Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is a quick, flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 600
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz short pasta (penne or rotini) Alternatively, use fettuccine.
For the Chicken
  • 2 breasts chicken Slice them lengthwise for quicker cooking.
For the Sauce
  • 2 tbsp olive oil Extra virgin provides better flavor.
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour Replace with cornstarch for gluten-free.
  • 1 cup chicken broth Use low-sodium for a healthier option.
  • 1 cup heavy cream Half-and-half can be used for a lighter sauce.
  • ½ cup pesto Store-bought or homemade.
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice Adjust to taste.
  • ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes Cherry tomatoes can be substituted.
For the Finishing Touches
  • 2 cups fresh baby spinach Will wilt down when cooked.
  • ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese Optional.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Large Skillet

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. Boil a large pot of salted water. Add pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. Season chicken with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove chicken from skillet and let it rest.
  3. Slice rested chicken into bite-sized pieces.
  4. Add flour to the skillet with remaining fat and juices. Cook for 1 minute while stirring to form a roux.
  5. Gradually pour in chicken broth while stirring to prevent lumps. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
  6. Lower heat to medium and stir in heavy cream, pesto, and lemon juice. Cook for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
  7. Add sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach, folding them in until spinach wilts.
  8. Combine drained pasta into the skillet with sauce, tossing to coat. Add reserved pasta water if necessary.
  9. Plate pasta and top with sliced chicken and Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 35gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Reheat gently if storing in the fridge and add a splash of broth or cream to revive the sauce consistency.

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