If you are craving a meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, this Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s a beautiful symphony of tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes combined in a luscious, velvety pesto cream sauce. Every bite bursting with layers of flavor and just enough creaminess to make you swoon. This dish is deceptively simple yet sophisticated enough to impress any dinner guest or to turn a regular weeknight into something special. Trust me, once you make this Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe, it will quickly become one of your go-to favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting these ingredients together is a breeze, and each one plays a star role in delivering amazing taste, texture, and color in this dish. From the hearty chicken to the fresh spinach, the components mix flawlessly to create a balanced and beautiful meal.
- 8 ounces uncooked pasta: Choose your favorite pasta shape to soak up that creamy pesto sauce perfectly.
- 2 chicken breasts (cut into half lengthwise): Thinner pieces cook quickly and stay tender inside the sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a warm, subtle boost of flavor that complements the pesto.
- Salt & pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning to enhance all the other flavors.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps brown the chicken beautifully and adds a fruity richness.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Brings a silky smooth texture and depth to the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon flour: Works like magic to thicken the sauce just right.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Adds savory moisture and layers of taste to the creamy sauce.
- 3/4 cup heavy/whipping cream: The secret to that irresistibly creamy texture.
- 1/4 cup pesto: Bursting with fresh basil, garlic, and parmesan, it’s the heart of this recipe.
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice (or more to taste): Brightens up the dish and balances the creaminess.
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes: Adds a tangy-sweet punch and gorgeous color contrast.
- 2 cups (packed) fresh baby spinach: A nutrient-rich green that wilts into the sauce effortlessly.
- Freshly grated parmesan for serving (optional): A final touch of cheesy goodness, if you like.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta Al Dente
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water — this is your pasta’s hot tub! Cook your pasta just until it’s al dente according to the package directions because it will continue to absorb the delicious sauce later. Perfectly cooked pasta is the foundation of this Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe.
Step 2: Prepare and Season the Chicken
While the pasta bubbles away, take your chicken breasts and slice them lengthwise into thinner pieces. This not only speeds up cooking but keeps every bite juicy. Season generously with garlic powder, salt, and pepper — simple but essential flavors that let the chicken shine in this recipe.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken to Golden Perfection
Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the chicken pieces and cook for about 5 to 6 minutes per side until nicely browned and cooked through. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into bite-sized pieces. This rest allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist, flavorful bites.
Step 4: Create the Roux Base for the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet (with the buttery pan remnants), sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly for about a minute to cook out any raw taste. If your pan feels dry, add a bit more butter. This simple step thickens the sauce and is a crucial texture builder for the creamy pesto sauce in this dish.
Step 5: Build the Sauce with Pesto, Cream, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Now splash in the chicken broth, then stir in the heavy cream, vibrant pesto, tangy lemon juice, and sun-dried tomatoes. Scrape the pan bottom with a wooden spoon to lift all those delicious browned bits — that’s flavor gold. Let the sauce gently simmer until thickened, resulting in a rich, velvety coating for your pasta.
Step 6: Add Spinach and Combine with Pasta
Stir in the fresh baby spinach and allow it to wilt into the sauce, folding in freshness and bright color. Then toss in your drained pasta. If the sauce feels a little too thick, splash in a bit of the reserved hot pasta water to loosen it up without losing richness. Toss everything together until each strand is lovingly coated.
Step 7: Final Seasoning and Assembly
Give everything a taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed. Serve this creamy, dreamy pasta topped with the sliced chicken pieces and a generous sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan if you like. You’re officially ready to indulge in this sensational Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this dish even further, consider adding some fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts. The basil lends a burst of herbal brightness and the nuts add delightful crunch, balancing the creamy texture beautifully.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette or a crusty garlic bread to sop up any leftover sauce. Roasted asparagus or sautéed green beans also make fresh, vibrant companions to this dreamy dish.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more elegant presentation, serve the pasta in shallow bowls and swirl the sauce when plating. Top each serving with a fan of the sliced chicken and a final drizzle of good quality olive oil. Adding a wedge of lemon on the side invites your guests to customize the brightness to their liking.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (and you might!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The creamy pesto sauce keeps well, and the spinach stays vibrant for up to 3 days. Just be sure to cool it completely before refrigerating.
Freezing
This Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe isn’t the best candidate for freezing because cream-based sauces can separate. It’s better to freeze just the cooked chicken separately if you want to prep in advance, then toss it together fresh with heated sauce and pasta.
Reheating
When reheating, warm the pasta gently over low heat on the stove with a splash of chicken broth or cream to bring back its luscious consistency. Microwave reheating works too, but stir frequently and add liquid as needed to prevent drying out or clumping.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While staples like penne or fusilli work beautifully to hold onto the sauce, feel free to use spaghetti, farfalle, or your favorite shape. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to keep that perfect al dente bite.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or artichokes. Using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth will keep the sauce flavorful and satisfying.
Can I substitute the heavy cream for a lighter option?
You can try using half-and-half or whole milk, but keep in mind the sauce will be less rich and might not thicken quite the same. Adding a bit more flour in the roux can help with thickening when using lighter dairy.
What type of pesto is best for this dish?
Classic basil pesto is ideal, but you can experiment with sun-dried tomato pesto or kale pesto for unique flavor twists. Just be mindful of salt content and adjust seasoning as needed.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Chicken is cooked through when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear. Cooking it evenly on both sides for 5 to 6 minutes per side, depending on thickness, usually does the trick.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe has quickly become one of those treasured meals I love sharing with friends because it’s as comforting as it is impressive. The harmony of flavors, creamy sauce, and vibrant ingredients come together for a dinner that feels both indulgent and wholesome. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own — it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a delicious way to brighten up any day.
