As the aroma of garlic and basil begins to fill my kitchen, I can’t help but feel a wave of comfort wash over me. This Simple Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta with Spinach is my go-to solution for those hectic weeknight dinners when I crave something hearty yet effortless. With tender chicken, a luscious pesto cream sauce, and vibrant spinach, it combines the best of Italian-inspired flavors in just 30 minutes. Not only is it family-friendly, but it’s also a delightful crowd-pleaser that allows everyone to savor a rich, comforting meal without spending all evening in the kitchen. With a few basic ingredients and a sprinkle of love, you’ll have a satisfying dinner on the table in no time. Are you curious about how to whip up this delicious dish? Let’s dive into the details!
Why is this pasta so special?
Quick and Easy: In just 30 minutes, you can create a comforting meal that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly simple to prepare.
Family-Friendly: It’s a dish that appeals to all ages, making it perfect for busy weeknights when everyone wants something delicious.
Bold Flavors: The combination of pesto and sun-dried tomatoes elevates this pasta, offering a delightful burst of Italian flavors in every bite.
Versatile Options: Feel free to switch up the veggies or pasta shapes to suit your family’s preferences; it’s a great way to use what you have on hand!
** Crowd-Pleasing**: Serve it up with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal that will satisfy both friends and family. You simply can’t go wrong with a comforting bowl of creamy goodness! If you’re looking for other quick options, check out my Garlic BBQ Chicken Pasta for another easy dinner idea!
Simple Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Ingredients
• The magic of this dish starts with a few key ingredients!
For the Pasta
• Pasta – Choose any short pasta like penne, rotini, or farfalle for delightful bites.
For the Chicken
• Chicken Breasts – Provides lean protein; remember to slice them lengthwise for even cooking.
For the Sauce
• Garlic Powder – Adds depth; fresh garlic can be used for an even stronger flavor.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; taste as you go to achieve perfection.
• Olive Oil & Butter – The perfect combo for cooking chicken and creating a silky sauce base. Use only olive oil for a lighter dish.
• All-Purpose Flour – Thickens the sauce; cornstarch is a great gluten-free alternative.
• Chicken Broth – Infuses flavor and moisture; vegetable broth is a fantastic vegetarian substitute.
• Heavy Cream – Creates that luscious creamy texture; half-and-half or a non-dairy option can lighten it up, though the consistency may change.
• Pesto – The star flavor component; go for store-bought for convenience or make your own for an extra touch.
• Lemon Juice – Brightens the dish; adjust to your taste for a zesty kick.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Adds a touch of sweetness; substitute with fresh cherry tomatoes for a lighter vibe.
• Fresh Baby Spinach – Boosts nutrition and color; other greens like kale or arugula work nicely too.
• Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese – An optional topping that adds a rich layer of flavor; nutritional yeast is a lovely dairy-free alternative.
Gather these essentials, and you’re on your way to making the ultimate Simple Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta that will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings!
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. Once boiling, add your choice of pasta (penne or rotini work great) and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Remember to reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining to help adjust the sauce later.
Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken
While the pasta is cooking, take your chicken breasts and season them generously with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In a large skillet, heat a mix of olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and its internal temperature reaches 165°F. Once done, transfer to a plate, let rest, and slice.
Step 3: Create the Sauce Base
In the same skillet, keep the heat at medium, and sprinkle in all-purpose flour. Cook for about one minute, stirring constantly to create a roux and remove the raw flour taste. The mixture should turn slightly golden, providing a beautiful base for your creamy sauce.
Step 4: Add Chicken Broth
Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring continuously and scraping the bottom of the skillet to release any flavorful browned bits. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer, which should take about 2-3 minutes, creating a flavorful foundation for your sauce.
Step 5: Incorporate Cream and Pesto
Reduce the heat to low and add in the heavy cream, stirring until fully combined. Next, mix in the pesto, lemon juice, and sun-dried tomatoes. Allow this creamy concoction to simmer for about 3-4 minutes, until slightly thickened, making sure to keep an eye on it to prevent boiling.
Step 6: Wilt the Spinach
Stir in the fresh baby spinach, and let it cook for 1-2 minutes until wilted but still vibrant. The spinach adds lovely color and nutrition to your Simple Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta, making the dish even more delightful.
Step 7: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together to coat the pasta evenly in the creamy sauce. Use the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, to adjust the sauce’s consistency if it appears too thick, creating the perfect silky texture.
Step 8: Fold in the Chicken
Finally, gently fold in the sliced chicken, ensuring it gets enveloped in that luscious sauce. Allow everything to warm through for about a minute before serving. This final touch ensures each bite of your Simple Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is packed with flavor and heartiness.
How to Store and Freeze Simple Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore creaminess.
Freezer: Freeze pasta in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Prior to freezing, ensure it’s cooled completely. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: When reheating, do so slowly on the stovetop, stirring occasionally, and use low heat to avoid separation of the creamy sauce.
Pro Tip: Add a little extra pesto or a splash of lemon juice during reheating for a flavor boost to your Simple Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta!
Make Ahead Options
These Simple Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta bowls are a wonderful choice for meal prep! You can cook the pasta and prepare the sauce up to 3 days in advance, storing each component separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The chicken can be cooked and sliced ahead of time, ensuring it’s juicy when served. To maintain the quality of your creamy sauce, consider adding the spinach just before serving to keep it vibrant and fresh. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat the pasta and sauce together over low heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water to revive the creaminess. This way, you’ll have a delightful meal ready in no time!
Simple Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Variations
Customize your Simple Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta in delightful ways to suit your taste and dietary preferences!
-
Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a nut-based cream for a creamy texture without dairy.
-
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and cornstarch instead of all-purpose flour to create a delicious sauce.
-
Vegetarian: Swap chicken for grilled zucchini or mushrooms and chicken broth for vegetable broth, keeping it flavorful and filling.
-
Extra Veggies: Toss in some roasted broccoli or bell peppers along with the spinach for added nutrition and color. Feel free to get bold with your veggie choices!
-
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the sauce for a delightful heat that elevates the entire dish.
For a perfect pairing, whip up a side salad to balance the richness of the pasta or serve it with my Thai Fried Chicken for an extra special dinner!
- Herbaceous Twist: Add fresh basil or parsley into the sauce for an aromatic boost that complements the pesto beautifully.
Selecting your favorite variations allows you to create a dish that feels uniquely yours, even with a classic recipe. Enjoy experimenting!
Expert Tips for Simple Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta
-
Check Chicken Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked to 165°F for safety and perfect juiciness.
-
Avoid Saucy Separation: Maintain low heat while simmering the sauce; let it gently thicken without boiling to prevent separation.
-
Boost the Pesto Flavor: For an extra pop of flavor, stir an additional spoonful of pesto into the dish just before serving, enhancing the overall taste.
-
Reserve Pasta Water: Don’t forget to save that reserved pasta water! It’s your secret weapon for adjusting the sauce’s thickness to achieve that ideal creamy texture.
-
Mix and Match Veggies: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite vegetables, like broccoli or zucchini; they not only enhance nutrition but make your Simple Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta even more delightful!
What to Serve with Simple Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta
As you savor this comforting dish, consider adding delightful accompaniments that elevate your dinner experience.
-
Garlic Bread: This crispy, buttery delight is perfect for sopping up the rich sauce, enhancing your meal’s flavors.
-
Side Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the creaminess of the pasta.
-
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers provide a healthy and colorful addition that complements the dish beautifully.
-
Wine Pairing: A chilled Pinot Grigio’s light acidity enhances the pasta’s richness while elevating the overall dining experience.
-
Creamy Coleslaw: The crunch and tang of a creamy coleslaw can balance out the dish’s rich flavors, creating a harmonious plate.
-
Lemon Tart: Finish off with a zesty lemon tart for dessert; its brightness cuts through the creaminess and leaves you with a refreshing note.
Simple Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ingredients for this dish?
Absolutely! When selecting your ingredients, look for chicken breasts that are plump and have no discoloration. The pasta should be free of any breaks or damage. For spinach, opt for bright green leaves without any dark spots, and ensure your sun-dried tomatoes are soft but not mushy. Fresh pesto should ensure a vibrant color and aroma, indicating quality freshness!
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Very! Store any leftovers of your Simple Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat gently over low heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to maintain that creamy consistency.
Can I freeze this pasta dish?
Absolutely! To freeze your Simple Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating slowly, stirring occasionally on the stovetop to avoid a separated sauce.
How can I prevent my sauce from separating while cooking?
Great question! To keep your sauce smooth, always maintain low heat during the simmering process. If it begins to boil aggressively, it can lead to separation. Stir continuously, especially after adding the cream, and you might add a tablespoon of reserved pasta water if it gets too thick, keeping that luxurious texture intact.
Is there a dairy-free alternative for the heavy cream?
Very! If you’re looking for a dairy-free version of your Simple Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta, you can substitute heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream. The flavor may vary, but they provide a creamy texture that works beautifully in this dish. Just remember to adjust seasonings as needed!
Simple Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta for a Cozy Dinner Night
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
- Season chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken for 5-6 minutes on each side, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F. Transfer to a plate, let rest, and slice.
- In the same skillet, sprinkle in all-purpose flour, stirring constantly to create a roux, about 1 minute.
- Pour in chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet. Allow to simmer for about 2-3 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream until fully combined, then add pesto, lemon juice, and sun-dried tomatoes. Simmer for about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in fresh baby spinach, cooking for 1-2 minutes until wilted.
- Add drained pasta to skillet, tossing to coat evenly in sauce. Use reserved pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if too thick.
- Gently fold in sliced chicken, warming everything through for about a minute before serving.
Leave a Reply