Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta with Spinach

Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta with Spinach

  • Author: Michael
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta with Spinach combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, fresh spinach, and a luscious plant-based cheese cream sauce tossed in homemade basil pesto (natural). This dish offers a fresh herbal burst, rich creaminess, and balanced nutrition in a simple, elegant meal perfect for any weekday dinner or gathering.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein and Pasta

  • 2 chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces
  • 8 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or choice)

Vegetables and Herbs

  • 4 cups fresh spinach, washed
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Sauces and Seasonings

  • 1/2 cup basil pesto (natural), homemade or store-bought
  • 1/2 cup plant-based cheese, shredded or sliced for melting
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent dissolved in warm water

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces and wash the fresh spinach thoroughly. Mince the garlic and gather all your ingredients to keep your workspace organized.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Sauté until the chicken is golden on all sides and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Make the Creamy Pesto Sauce: In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil and the minced garlic, cooking gently until fragrant. Stir in the basil pesto (natural) and plant-based cheese, mixing until the cheese melts smoothly. Add the vegetarian Worcestershire sauce and the natural gelling agent dissolved in a splash of warm water to slightly thicken the sauce, stirring constantly.
  4. Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Spinach: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat with the creamy pesto sauce. Add the drained pasta and fresh spinach, stirring well until the spinach wilts but remains vibrant. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  5. Serve Hot: Transfer the pasta to serving bowls or a large platter. Garnish with extra fresh basil leaves if desired and enjoy the cozy, flavorful combination.

Notes

  • Use fresh basil for bright, aromatic pesto flavor.
  • Add spinach just before serving to keep color and texture vibrant.
  • Choose plant-based cheese with good meltability for a silky sauce.
  • Cook chicken evenly by stirring frequently and avoiding overcrowding the pan to lock in juices.
  • Reserve pasta water to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much when mixing.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Sautéing and Boiling
  • Cuisine: Italian-inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: chicken pasta, creamy pesto pasta, spinach pasta, plant-based cheese, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, healthy pasta recipe, gluten free pasta

Find it online: https://classicrecipehub.com/creamy-chicken-pesto-pasta-with-spinach/