Light Pesto Pasta with Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the freshness of vibrant basil pesto with tender chicken and al dente pasta. This recipe shines as a quick weeknight dinner, perfect for busy families or a delightful twist at your weekend gatherings. Having made this dish numerous times, I can assure you that it’s not just easy to prepare—it’s also a crowd-pleaser, with flavors that truly sing.
Why you’ll love this dish
This Light Pesto Pasta with Chicken is more than just a meal; it embodies convenience, taste, and nutrition. With a cooking time that clocks in under 30 minutes, it’s ideal for those hectic weeknights when time is of the essence. The creaminess of the sauce paired with the vibrant flavors of basil, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes makes it a hit among kids and adults alike. You can easily personalize it or adjust the ingredients based on what’s in your pantry, making it versatile and budget-friendly.
"This dish is our family favorite! It’s quick, delicious, and perfect for a busy night!"
The cooking process explained
Making this dish is as straightforward as it is satisfying. Begin by cooking your pasta, season the chicken to bring out its natural flavors, and create a rich, creamy pesto sauce that pulls everything together. By following this easy step-by-step process, you’ll have a delightful meal ready to serve in no time.
What you’ll need
Gather these ingredients for the perfect Light Pesto Pasta with Chicken:
- 2 Chicken breasts
- 2 cups Baby spinach, fresh
- 1/2 tsp Garlic powder
- 1/4 cup Sun-dried tomatoes
- 1/2 cup Chicken broth
- 1/2 tsp Lemon juice
- 1/4 cup Pesto
- 8 oz Pasta
- 1 tbsp All-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper
- 1 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 tbsp Butter
- 3/4 cup Heavy cream
- Parmesan cheese
Feel free to swap out fresh ingredients for frozen ones if you need to. For example, frozen spinach works wonderfully in a pinch!
Directions to follow
- Start by boiling a pot of salted water and cook the pasta until al dente. Reserve a small amount of pasta water, then drain the rest.
- While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken until it’s golden and fully cooked through. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it.
- Sprinkle the flour into the skillet and allow it to cook for about a minute, stirring continuously.
- Gradually add the chicken broth, heavy cream, pesto, lemon juice, and sun-dried tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken.
- Combine the cooked pasta, spinach, and sliced chicken into the skillet, tossing everything well to coat.
Best ways to enjoy it
To serve this Light Pesto Pasta with Chicken, consider plating it in a large serving bowl and garnishing it with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of black pepper. A drizzle of olive oil and a few fresh basil leaves will add an extra touch. For sides, a simple mixed greens salad or garlic bread pairs beautifully, making it a well-rounded meal.
Storage and reheating tips
If you find yourself with leftovers (though I doubt it!), store the pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator and plan to enjoy it within 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore its creamy texture. Avoid leaving it at room temperature for more than two hours for food safety.
Helpful cooking tips
For the best results, ensure your chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Don’t rush the process; let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to keep it juicy. Also, saving a little of the pasta water can be a game-changer—it helps create a smooth, silky sauce.
Creative twists
Feel free to get creative! To add a little more flavor, try adding some roasted bell peppers or olives to the mix. You can substitute the chicken with shrimp or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. If you want to amp up the greens, consider tossing in some arugula or kale along with the spinach.
Your questions answered
What’s the prep time for this recipe?
The prep time is about 10 minutes, with an additional 15-20 minutes for cooking.
Can I use store-bought pesto?
Absolutely! Store-bought pesto can save time while still delivering great flavor.
How do I store leftovers safely?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and consume within 3 days for the best quality and safety.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Just substitute the pasta with gluten-free options available at your local grocery store.
Enjoy your cooking journey with this Light Pesto Pasta with Chicken—it’s destined to become a family favorite!
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Light Pesto Pasta with Chicken
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten-Free option available
Description
A quick and delightful pasta dish featuring vibrant basil pesto, tender chicken, and fresh spinach, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 2 Chicken breasts
- 2 cups Baby spinach, fresh
- 1/2 tsp Garlic powder
- 1/4 cup Sun-dried tomatoes
- 1/2 cup Chicken broth
- 1/2 tsp Lemon juice
- 1/4 cup Pesto
- 8 oz Pasta
- 1 tbsp All-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper
- 1 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 tbsp Butter
- 3/4 cup Heavy cream
- Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Start by boiling a pot of salted water and cook the pasta until al dente. Reserve a small amount of pasta water, then drain the rest.
- While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken until it’s golden and fully cooked through. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it.
- Sprinkle the flour into the skillet and allow it to cook for about a minute, stirring continuously.
- Gradually add the chicken broth, heavy cream, pesto, lemon juice, and sun-dried tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken.
- Combine the cooked pasta, spinach, and sliced chicken into the skillet, tossing everything well to coat.
Notes
For creaminess, reserve some pasta water. Feel free to swap ingredients based on what you have at home.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian