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

Description

Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta with Spinach combines tender chicken, fresh spinach, smoky turkey slices, and a smooth plant-based cheese pesto sauce for a rich and comforting pasta dish. Quick to prepare and full of vibrant flavors, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, delivering a nutritious and delicious meal with delightful textures and colorful presentation.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 1 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced
  • 4 oz smoked turkey slices

Vegetables and Greens

  • 3 cups fresh spinach
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Pasta and Base

  • 8 oz pasta of choice, cooked al dente
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Sauces and Flavorings

  • 1/2 cup pesto sauce (natural)
  • 1/2 cup plant-based cheese (soft, meltable, e.g. cashew-based)
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp natural gelling agent

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken and Smoked Turkey: Thinly slice the chicken breast and smoked turkey slices. Lightly season the chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté the chicken until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside to keep warm.
  2. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your chosen pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving some pasta water for later use.
  3. Sauté Garlic and Spinach: In the same pan, add a bit more olive oil. Gently sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add fresh spinach and cook just until wilted, keeping its vibrant color.
  4. Make the Creamy Pesto Sauce: In the pan with spinach and garlic, combine pesto sauce (natural), plant-based cheese, and apple cider vinegar. Gradually stir in the natural gelling agent while heating gently, creating a thick, creamy sauce.
  5. Combine Everything: Add the cooked chicken, smoked turkey slices, and pasta to the sauce. Toss gently, adding reserved pasta water as needed to adjust sauce consistency. Heat through so flavors meld perfectly.
  6. Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately, optionally garnished with extra plant-based cheese or fresh basil leaves.

Notes

  • Use fresh basil to elevate pesto flavor.
  • Reserve pasta water to help sauce cling to noodles.
  • Do not overcook spinach to retain vibrant color and texture.
  • Cook sauce on low heat to maintain creaminess and avoid separation.
  • Adjust sauce thickness by adding more natural gelling agent if desired.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Italian-inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 550 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 40 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 35 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg

Keywords: creamy chicken pasta, pesto pasta, spinach pasta, plant-based cheese pasta, gluten-free pasta, easy dinner recipe

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