Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes & Spinach

This Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes and Spinach is a rich, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a creamy basil pesto sauce, sweet roasted tomatoes, and wilted spinach. It’s a one-skillet meal that brings together bold flavors with minimal effort, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is the perfect blend of comfort and freshness. The creamy pesto sauce adds richness without being overly heavy, while the roasted tomatoes bring a burst of natural sweetness that complements the savory chicken. Spinach adds a touch of color and nutrients, rounding out the dish beautifully. Plus, it’s all made in one skillet, which means easy cleanup.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• Olive oil

• Cherry tomatoes

• Fresh spinach

• Jarred or homemade basil pesto

• Heavy cream (or a dairy-free alternative)

• Garlic

• Salt

• Black pepper

directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. In an oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.

3. Sear the chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.

4. In the same skillet, add cherry tomatoes and garlic. Roast in the oven for 15 minutes.

5. Return the skillet to the stovetop over medium heat. Add pesto and cream, stirring to combine.

6. Return the chicken to the skillet. Spoon sauce over the top and simmer for 5–7 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.

7. Add spinach and stir gently until wilted.

8. Serve warm with your choice of side dish.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Dairy-free option: Substitute heavy cream with canned coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative.

• Add mushrooms: Sauté mushrooms with the tomatoes for an extra umami boost.

• Use chicken thighs: Boneless, skinless thighs can be used for a juicier cut.

• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle kick.

• Swap spinach: Use kale or Swiss chard if preferred.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm in a skillet over low heat until heated through, or microwave in 30-second intervals. Add a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce if needed.

FAQs

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, thaw and drain frozen spinach before adding it to avoid excess moisture in the sauce.

What type of pesto works best?

A classic basil pesto works perfectly, but sun-dried tomato pesto or arugula pesto can add unique flavors.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this dish is naturally gluten-free, but always check labels on store-bought pesto to confirm.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely. Chicken thighs work well and often stay juicier during cooking.

What sides go well with this dish?

Serve with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or a side of crusty bread.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

Simmer the sauce longer to reduce it, or stir in a little grated Parmesan to thicken.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, cook and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove when ready to serve.

Can I freeze this?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it. Note that the texture of the cream sauce may change slightly upon thawing.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Replace the chicken with cooked chickpeas or tofu, and use vegetable stock or cream as the base.

Conclusion

Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes & Spinach is a flavorful, easy-to-prepare dish that’s sure to please any crowd. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, its vibrant flavors and creamy texture make it a standout recipe. Enjoy it as part of your weekly meal rotation or as a comforting dinner any night of the week.