Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe
Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is a delicious and quick dinner recipe featuring tender chicken, fresh pesto, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. This comforting and easy-to-make dish is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family meal. With simple ingredients and a mouthwatering flavor, this recipe is bound to become a favorite.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your choice)
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 1 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional garnish: Fresh basil leaves, red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season diced chicken with salt and pepper, then cook until golden and fully cooked. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add the pesto, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese, stirring until well combined.
- Mix in the cooked chicken and pasta, tossing to coat evenly. Add reserved pasta water if needed for desired consistency.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil leaves and red pepper flakes, if desired.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half.
- Feel free to add vegetables like cherry tomatoes, spinach, or mushrooms for extra flavor.
- Use gluten-free pasta if needed.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 510
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
Find it online: https://elianarecipes.com/creamy-chicken-pesto-pasta-recipe/