This Pesto ‘N Pasta Chicken is a vibrant, low-fat twist on classic Italian comfort food. Tender bite-sized chicken breasts are sautéed until golden, then tossed with al dente penne and a luscious, homemade sauce. The sauce blends fresh spinach, basil, garlic, and pine nuts with creamy nonfat yogurt and Parmesan for a rich flavor without the heavy cream. ItâÂÂs a protein-packed meal that comes together in under 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of savory chicken, nutty pasta, and bright herbaceous sauce creates a balanced dish that is both satisfying and light. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Pesto ‘N Pasta Chicken
Description
This Pesto 'N Pasta Chicken is a vibrant, low-fat twist on classic Italian comfort food. Tender bite-sized chicken breasts are saut&# 195;©ed until golden, then tossed with al dente penne and a luscious, homemade sauce. The sauce blends fresh spinach, basil, garlic, and pine nuts with creamy nonfat yogurt and Parmesan for a rich flavor without the heavy cream. ItâÂÂs a protein-packed meal that comes together in under 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of savory chicken, nutty pasta, and bright herbaceous sauce creates a balanced dish that is both satisfying and light. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.Ingredients
Directions
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Slice the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
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Cook the penne pasta according to package directions, omitting salt and fat, then drain well and keep warm.
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Combine the spinach, Parmesan cheese, basil, pine nuts, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, yogurt, and salt in a blender or food processor.
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Blend until the mixture is smooth, then pour into a small bowl and set aside.
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Coat a large skillet with cooking spray and heat over medium-high heat until hot.
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Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and sauté until browned on all sides.
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Stir in the reserved spinach mixture and cover the skillet.
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Simmer for 5 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and thoroughly heated, being careful not to let the sauce boil.
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Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss gently to combine with the sauce.
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Serve immediately.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 3
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 93.6kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 2.0g4%
- Saturated Fat 0.6g3%
- Cholesterol 48.2mg17%
- Sodium 42.0mg2%
- Total Carbohydrate 0.0g0%
- Dietary Fiber 0.0g0%
- Sugars 0.0g
- Protein 17.6g36%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
