Pesto Chicken Pasta is a quick, satisfying dish that combines tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a quick basil pesto all in a delicious pasta dish that your whole family will love! The combination of hearty ingredients and a creamy, wine-infused sauce creates a meal that is both elegant and also easy to prepare. Ideal for busy weeknights or casual entertaining, this recipe gives you a balanced plate of protein, carbs, and greens with a touch of parmesan to tie everything together. More cheese is almost never a bad idea, right?
Pesto Chicken Pasta Recipe
This is one of the easiest pasta dishes you can throw together, and it becomes even easier if you use a store-bought pesto. The “hardest” part of this recipe is cooking the chicken breast, and basically your only job there is to make sure it gets browned on both sides and you don’t overcook it. No one likes dry chicken! When I made this I took the difficulty level up a notch by using my stainless steel pan, which I’ve always struggled with but now that I now how to use it properly it is, by far, the best pan in my cabinet.
I won’t tell if you just use a non-stick though. It is easier, but you won’t get as much of that caramelized fond on the bottom of the pan so the flavor will be sacrificed just a teensy bit.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
- Quick and Simple: Ready in about 30 minutes with minimal prep.
- Rich and Flavorful: A creamy pesto sauce with a hint of white wine for extra depth.
- Balanced: Includes protein, carbs, and greens in one dish.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable with different pasta shapes or added vegetables.
- Impressive: Looks and tastes like a restaurant-quality meal.
Try our Shrimp Alfredo Recipe
Pesto Chicken Pasta Shopping List
Wondering if you have to hit the grocery store or if you have all the ingredients you need for this? Check out this list! For the full ingredients list, including the amounts you’ll need, make sure to scroll to the bottom and view the recipe card.
Ingredients
- Pasta (Rotini)
- Butter
- Chicken Breasts
- Salt
- Garlic Powder
- Onion Powder
- Pepper
- Dry White Wine
- Baby Spinach
- Basil Pesto
- Shredded Parmesan
How to make easy Pesto Chicken Pasta
Looking to see what you’re getting into here? Below is a general overview of the recipe steps. When you’re cooking, make sure to use the recipe card at the bottom of the post for the full instructions.
- Prepare the Pasta: Cook pasta in salted boiling water 1-2 minutes under al dente; reserve ½ cup pasta water and drain.
- Cook the Chicken: Season chicken breasts and brown in butter; cook until internal temp reaches 165°F, then rest and cube.
- Deglaze the Pan: Add white wine to the skillet, scraping up the fond for added flavor.
- Build the Sauce: Stir in pesto and spinach; cook until spinach wilts.
- Combine and Serve: Add pasta, chicken, and reserved pasta water to the sauce; toss to coat, sprinkle parmesan, and serve hot.
FAQ
How should I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
How do I reheat Pesto Chicken Pasta?
Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
The pasta and chicken can be cooked ahead, but combine them with the sauce just before serving to maintain texture and flavor.
What substitutions can I make?
- Pasta: Swap rotini for penne, spaghetti, or fusilli.
- Protein: Use shrimp or pork tenderloin instead of chicken.
- Wine: Chicken broth or a splash of lemon juice works if wine is unavailable.
Garlic Butter Mushroom Spaghetti
Serve This With…
- Garlic Bread: A crunchy side to soak up the sauce.
- Caesar Salad: A refreshing accompaniment with crisp greens.
- Roasted Asparagus: Grilled asparagus will complement this pasta perfectly.
This Pesto Chicken Pasta recipe combines bold flavors, rich textures, and wholesome ingredients for a meal that’s as practical as it is delicious. Whether you’re feeding your family or hosting guests, this dish delivers a satisfying experience with minimal effort. Add it to your rotation for an adaptable, flavor-packed option that never disappoints.
PIN FOR LATER!
Pesto Chicken Pasta
Our easy recipe for pestco chicken pasta is done in under an hour and tastes amazing! Perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 1 pound pasta (rotini)
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 3 cups baby spinach
- 1 cup basil pesto
- 1/2 cup shredded parmesan
Instructions
- Put a well-salted pot of water on the stovetop to boil.
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. - Season the chicken with the salt, onion powder, garlic powder, and pepper on both sides. If your chicken breast is particularly large, don't be afraid to use some more seasonings. Measure with your heart.
- Brown the chicken on both sides and let cook over medium heat until the internal temp reaches 165°F.
- When the water boils, toss in the noodles and cook them 1-2 minutes under the al-dente time on the box. (If the box says 8-10 minutes, cook them for 6-7 minutes.)
- Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
- When the chicken is done cooking, remove from the pan and let rest for a few minutes before cubing.
- While the chicken is resting, add the wine to the same pan you cooked the chicken in. Scrape up all the fond from the bottom of the pan.
- Add the pesto to the pan along with the spinach. Stir and cook until wilted.
- Add the drained pasta to the pan along with the cubed chicken and the pasta water. Stir and simmer for a couple of minutes until the pasta and chicken is coated with the sauce.
- Top with the shredded parmesan cheese and enjoy while hot.
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Nutrition Information:
Yield: 6 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 463Total Fat: 26gSaturated Fat: 8gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 16gCholesterol: 54mgSodium: 808mgCarbohydrates: 30gFiber: 3gSugar: 3gProtein: 24g