Pasta with Spinach Pesto and Grilled Chicken

Introduction

When I first introduced Pasta with Spinach Pesto and Grilled Chicken to my family, I knew I was offering them a dish that combined health with heartiness. As the aroma of grilled chicken mingled with the fresh scent of basil and spinach pesto filled our kitchen, I watched my family’s eyes light up with anticipation. The vibrant green of the pesto and the tender chicken made for a stunning presentation, and the flavor was even better than I had hoped. Everyone loved how the dish was not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect meal for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend dinner.

Ingredients

• 8 oz (225 g) pasta (penne, fusilli, or your choice)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking chicken)
• 1 pound (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
• 1/4 cup walnuts or pine nuts (lightly toasted)
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1/3 cup olive oil (for pesto)
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
• Optional: cherry tomatoes and extra spinach for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:

• Boil Water: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.
• Cook Pasta: Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the Grilled Chicken:

• Season Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
• Heat Oil: In a grill pan or skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
• Grill Chicken: Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is cooked through. Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

3. Make the Spinach Pesto:

• Blend Ingredients: In a food processor, combine the fresh spinach, basil, grated Parmesan, toasted nuts, garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt.
• Add Olive Oil: While blending, slowly drizzle in the 1/3 cup olive oil until the mixture is smooth and creamy. If the pesto is too thick, you can add a bit of reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and freshly cracked black pepper.

4. Combine Pasta and Pesto:

• Toss Together: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta and spinach pesto, tossing to coat the pasta evenly. If the mixture seems dry, add a little more reserved pasta water to loosen it.

5. Serve:

• Plate the Dish: Divide the pasta among plates, top with sliced grilled chicken, and garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese and any optional garnishes like cherry tomatoes or extra spinach.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: Approximately 550

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve the pasta hot, immediately after combining with the pesto.
• Top each plate with slices of grilled chicken.
• Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
• Add cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and extra flavor.
• Pair with a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Additional Tips

1. Nut-Free Option: You can omit the nuts or substitute them with seeds (like sunflower seeds) for a nut-free version.
2. Veggie Variations: Add in roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus for extra flavor and nutrition.
3. Meal Prep: The pesto can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for longer storage.
4. Adjust the Pesto: Feel free to tweak the amount of garlic or cheese in the pesto according to your taste preferences.
5. Cooking Chicken: Ensure the chicken is cooked to the correct internal temperature for safety and tenderness.

Recipe Variations

• Pasta Type: Swap out the pasta for whole wheat, gluten-free, or legume-based varieties for different flavors and textures.
• Add Protein: Incorporate shrimp or tofu for a seafood or vegetarian option.
• Creamy Pesto: Mix in a bit of cream or Greek yogurt into the pesto for a creamier texture.
• Herb Changes: Experiment with other herbs, such as arugula or cilantro, in place of spinach or basil.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pesto for a little heat.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, for a refreshing complement.
• Serve with a side of garlic bread or crusty Italian bread for soaking up the pesto.
• Consider a light dessert, like sorbet or fresh fruit, to round out the meal.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: The pesto can be frozen in ice cube trays for easy portioning and use in future recipes. Just make sure the pasta is not frozen; it’s best enjoyed fresh.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen spinach for the pesto?

• Yes, just thaw and squeeze out excess water before using it in the pesto.

1. How do I know when the chicken is cooked?

• Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

1. Can I make the pesto without a food processor?

• Yes, you can use a mortar and pestle, or finely chop the ingredients by hand and mix them together.

1. What can I use instead of walnuts or pine nuts?

• Sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds make great nut-free alternatives.

1. How can I make this dish vegetarian?

• Simply omit the chicken and add extra vegetables or chickpeas for protein.

1. Is this dish good for meal prep?

• Absolutely! The pesto can be made ahead and stored, while the pasta can be cooked fresh.

1. Can I add cream to the pasta?

• Yes, mixing in a bit of cream with the pesto will make it richer and creamier.

1. What type of pasta works best?

• Penne, fusilli, or any shape that holds sauce well is perfect.

1. Can I use store-bought pesto?

• Yes, but homemade pesto adds a fresher flavor and is easy to make!

1. What if I don’t have lemon juice?

• You can substitute with vinegar or omit it altogether for a different flavor profile.

Conclusion

Pasta with Spinach Pesto and Grilled Chicken is a vibrant and nutritious dish that embodies the essence of a well-balanced meal. With its delightful combination of flavors and textures, it’s perfect for both quick weeknight dinners and special occasions. The fresh spinach and basil pesto not only elevates the pasta but also adds a healthful twist that everyone will appreciate. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy. So gather your ingredients, whip up this delicious dish, and enjoy the bright, fresh flavors of homemade pesto!

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