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Mediterranean Chicken Pesto Pasta

A bright and comforting pasta dish that tosses juicy chicken, velvet pesto, sun-kissed tomatoes, and olives with al dente pasta. Ready in under 30 minutes, it balances creamy, tangy, and savory notes for a satisfying dinner that tastes like sunshine.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 520 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb chicken breast
  • 12 oz pasta
  • 1 cup pesto
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup kalamata olives
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese
  • 2 cups spinach
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • salt
  • black pepper
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions
 

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain.
  • While the pasta cooks, season the chicken with a pinch of salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken in a single layer until golden and cooked through, about 4–6 minutes per side depending on thickness. Transfer to a plate.
  • In the same skillet, add the garlic and a splash of pasta water to loosen any browned bits. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Return the chicken to the pan and add the pesto, tomatoes, olives, and spinach. Stir until the spinach wilts and everything is coated in sauce.
  • Toss the drained pasta into the skillet with the sauce. If the mixture seems dry, add a bit more pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
  • Stir in the lemon juice and season to taste with salt and pepper. Finish with crumbled feta for a creamy, tangy finish.
  • Serve immediately with an extra drizzle of olive oil if you like and a handful of torn basil leaves for color.