Why Make This Recipe

Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes & Spinach is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and fresh ingredients. It is quick to prepare, making it great for busy weeknights. The creamy pesto sauce enhances the chicken, while roasted tomatoes add a burst of sweetness. Plus, the spinach not only provides color but also adds nutrition, making this dish a balanced meal.

How to Make Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes & Spinach

Ingredients:

2 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin)
5 or 6 thinly sliced chicken breasts (butterflied, sliced in half, or into tenders)
3 garlic cloves (minced)
1 shallot (finely chopped)
2 cups cherry tomatoes (chopped in half)
3 cups spinach (roughly chopped, stems removed)
1/4 cup pesto (homemade or store-bought)
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/3 cup chicken stock (lightly salted)
Salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions:

Begin by preparing the chicken into thinly sliced pieces. Set aside until ready to use.
Prepare your garlic, shallot, tomatoes, and spinach. Set aside until ready to use.
Season chicken on both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
In a large frying pan, add 1 tbsp of olive oil and set to medium/high heat.
Fry the chicken breasts on each side for 1-2 minutes, just until they begin to brown. Remove from the pan and set aside for a few minutes. Tip: Don’t worry about fully cooking the chicken during this step.
Add your second tbsp of olive oil to the same pan along with garlic, shallot, tomatoes, and red pepper flakes. Cook on medium/high heat until the tomatoes begin to brown and release some of their juices, about 5 minutes.
Add the spinach, pesto, heavy cream, and chicken stock, and stir to combine. Tip: Taste here to see if the sauce needs any additional seasoning.
Let the sauce simmer for 2 minutes before adding the chicken back to finish cooking.
Return the chicken to the pan and continue to simmer. Spoon some of the sauce onto the chicken as it simmers, basting the chicken to allow it to finish cooking evenly.
Once the chicken is fully cooked (which should only take 2-3 minutes) and your sauce has slightly thickened, remove from heat.
Serve your chicken along with a generous spoon of sauce on rice or pasta of your choice.

How to Serve Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes & Spinach

This dish is perfect served over cooked rice or pasta. You can also enjoy it with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh basil or grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.

How to Store Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes & Spinach

To store leftovers, let the chicken cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the dish for up to a month. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.

Tips to Make Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes & Spinach

Use fresh spinach for the best texture and flavor.
If you prefer a spicier kick, add more red pepper flakes.
This dish works well with other proteins too, such as shrimp or tofu.
Customize the dish by adding other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.

Variation

Feel free to switch the pesto for a sun-dried tomato pesto for a different flavor profile. You can also add different herbs, such as thyme or oregano, to impart fresh herbal notes.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought pesto?
Yes, store-bought pesto works great and saves time. Choose a high-quality brand for the best taste.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and chicken in advance and reheat them when ready to serve.

3. What kind of pasta goes well with this dish?
Any pasta, such as penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti, pairs well with the creamy sauce.