Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is a rich and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken pieces with al dente pasta, all enveloped in a luscious basil pesto cream sauce. This Italian-inspired meal is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, offering a delightful blend of comfort and gourmet flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare, ready in about 30 minutes
• Combines the fresh taste of basil pesto with creamy sauce
• Versatile and customizable with various add-ins
• Perfect for both casual dinners and entertaining guests
• Family-friendly and sure to please even picky eaters

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 8 oz penne pasta
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Optional: ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• Optional: 2 cups fresh spinach leaves

directions

this recipe

1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Reduce the heat to medium, then pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine with the garlic. Allow the cream to simmer gently for 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in the basil pesto and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing well to create a smooth sauce.
6. If using sun-dried tomatoes and spinach, add them to the sauce and cook until the spinach is wilted.
7. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, followed by the drained pasta. Toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are well coated with the sauce.
8. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Substitute the chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option
• Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit dietary preferences
• Add vegetables like broccoli, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrition
• Incorporate a splash of white wine into the sauce for added depth of flavor
• Top with toasted pine nuts or fresh basil leaves for garnish

storage/reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
• Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce if necessary
• Not recommended for freezing, as the cream sauce may separate upon thawing

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pesto?

Yes, store-bought pesto works well and saves time. Choose a high-quality brand for the best flavor.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Omit the chicken and add more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant to make it vegetarian.

What type of pasta works best?

Penne is commonly used, but other short pasta like fusilli or farfalle also work well.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

You can use whole milk, but the sauce will be less rich and creamy. For a thicker sauce, consider adding a bit of cream cheese.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and ensure the pesto is gluten-free to make the dish suitable for a gluten-free diet.

How can I add more flavor to the sauce?

Incorporate ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for added flavor.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta in advance. Combine and reheat gently before serving.

What can I serve with this pasta?

A simple green salad and garlic bread pair well with this dish.

How do I prevent the sauce from separating when reheating?

Reheat slowly over low heat and stir continuously. Adding a small amount of cream can help maintain the sauce’s consistency.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Freezing is not recommended, as the cream sauce may separate and change texture upon thawing.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is a delightful and satisfying meal that brings together the rich flavors of basil pesto and creamy sauce with tender chicken and pasta. Its quick preparation and versatility make it a go-to recipe for both busy weeknights and special occasions. Enjoy this comforting dish with your favorite sides and savor the deliciousness in every bite.

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