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+ servings

Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad with Chicken and Spinach

A vibrant, one-pan sun dried tomato pasta salad loaded with fresh tomatoes, spinach, and tender chicken. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 1
Course: Chicken, Dinner, Pasta, Quick Meals
Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean
Calories: 485

Ingredients
  

  • 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil) chopped, reserve 2 tablespoons oil from jar
  • 5 tablespoons California olive oil divided, plus more for finishing
  • 1/2 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs or breast, cut into bite-size pieces
  • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt plus more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes adjust for heat preference
  • 4 medium Roma tomatoes chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves chopped
  • 8 oz fresh spinach roughly chopped if large
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 8 oz spaghetti or other long pasta

Method
 

  1. In a large skillet over medium-low heat, combine the chopped sun-dried tomatoes with 2 tablespoons of the oil reserved from their jar. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  2. Add the chicken pieces to the skillet. Sprinkle with salt and red pepper flakes. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add the chopped Roma tomatoes, fresh basil, spinach, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook over medium heat for 3 to 5 minutes, until the spinach is just wilted and the tomatoes begin to release their juices. Remove from heat, taste, and adjust salt if needed. Cover and keep warm off the heat.
  4. Meanwhile, cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain well.
  5. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the chicken and vegetables. Return to low heat, toss everything together, and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if desired.
  6. Remove from heat. Drizzle with the remaining 3 tablespoons of olive oil (or more oil from the sun-dried tomato jar) for extra richness. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 485kcalCarbohydrates: 42gProtein: 28gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 340mgFiber: 5gSugar: 6g

Notes

For a vegetarian version, skip the chicken and add 1 can (15 oz) of drained chickpeas. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently with a splash of water. This salad can be made ahead and served cold or at room temperature. Avoid overcooking the spinach—it should be just wilted. For extra California flavor, add a squeeze of Meyer lemon juice before serving.

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