Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta with Spinach

Yes. Store-bought pesto is convenient and works well.

Penne, fettuccine, rotini, and rigatoni hold the sauce well.

Yes, cook diced chicken fully before adding spinach and sauce.

Add reserved pasta water a little at a time.

Tomatoes, peas, broccoli, and zucchini all work.

Yes, thaw and squeeze it dry first.

Use half-and-half or a smaller amount of cream.

Creamy chicken pesto pasta with spinach, Parmesan, chicken, and a smooth pesto cream sauce.

Scale

12 ounces pasta, such as penne or fettuccine

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded

2 cups fresh spinach

1 cup pesto sauce

1 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tablespoon olive oil

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional: pine nuts for garnish

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Keep the heat moderate after adding cream so the sauce stays smooth.