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High Protein Chicken Pesto Pasta

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 650
A delicious and protein-packed pasta dish featuring tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and flavorful pesto.

Ingredients

Protein

  • 2 pounds chicken breast

Pasta

  • 12 ounces chickpea penne or lentil rotini

Sauce & Vegetables

  • 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or fresh)
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 cups baby spinach
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper Salt and black pepper (to taste)
  • 1 unit lemon (juice of 1 lemon)

Instructions 

  • Season chicken with salt and pepper.
  • Cook pasta in salted water until tender, then drain, reserving 1 cup of water.
  • Sear chicken in 1 tbsp olive oil until cooked through, then rest and slice.
  • Stir pesto into pasta with 3/4 cup reserved water, then add tomatoes and spinach, cooking briefly.
  • Finish with lemon juice, olive oil, and adjust seasoning. Serve topped with sliced chicken.

Notes

For extra flavor, add grated Parmesan or fresh basil.
Calories: 650kcal
Cost: $15
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: Chicken, pasta, Pesto