CHICKEN WITH KALE & SPINACH PESTO WITH TOASTED WALNUTS

Chicken with Kale & Spinach Pesto with Toasted Walnuts image

Provided by Mary Feltman @MaryEsther767

Categories Chicken

Number Of Ingredients 12

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2 - chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
5 ounce(s) kale (small bunch)
5 ounce(s) spinach, frozen; thawed
1/2 cup(s) sunflower seeds
1 clove(s) garlic, sliced
4 tablespoon(s) mushroom-infused olive oil
1/2 cup(s) fresh parmesan cheese
3 tablespoon(s) lemon juice, fresh
1/2 teaspoon(s) kosher salt
1/2 cup(s) pasta water
1 cup(s) walnuts, chopped
2 tablespoon(s) butter

Steps:

Prep kale: cut away center stem, and rinse thoroughly.
Prep spinach: thaw, and squeeze out excess liquid.
In a large pot, bring slightly salted water to a boil.
Place kale in water and let blanch for 1 1/2 minutes.
Remove kale and either immerse in cold water or run under cold water; drain well.
In the large bowl of a food processor, place : 2 T of the oil, sliced clove of garlic, lemon juice, sunflower seeds, Parmesan cheese, salt, and drained kale and spinach.
Pulse and scrap down sides repeatedly, until completely blended, and to the consistence you desire. ** I needed to add the other tablespoon of oil and some pasta water, to get the "saucier" consistency that I wanted. Set completed pesto aside.
In medium-large pot, bring slightly salted water to boil.
Place chicken in water and boil 15-20 minutes, making certain it's completely cooked. Let cool.
Using two forks, shred the chicken; set aside.
Heat a small saucepan and add the chopped walnuts; toast for about 2 minutes. Set aside.
Bring a large pot of good salted water to boil; add spaghetti, and cook according to package directions. **I used an organic, whole wheat pasta to make it healthier.
Remove a cup of the pasta water and set it aside for possible use in the pesto. Drain pasta and place in a bowl with 2-3 tablespoons of butter; toss to coat.
Place pasta on plate, add shredded chicken and pesto, and top with toasted walnuts. Enjoy!