Print

Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

Print Recipe

A delightful dish combining tender chicken, vibrant pesto, and comforting pasta. Perfect for busy weeknights or relaxing weekends.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces of pasta (penne, farfalle, or your favorite type)
  • 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup of basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 cup of heavy cream
  • 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

  1. Fill a large pot with water and add a generous amount of salt. Bring it to a boil over high heat.
  2. Once boiling, add your chosen pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  3. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside in a large bowl.
  4. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  5. Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper.
  6. Place the chicken in the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and golden brown. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
  7. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
  8. In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, lower the heat and add the heavy cream.
  9. Stir the cream gently, scraping any brown bits left from the chicken to add flavor to your sauce.
  10. Add the basil pesto and mix well. Allow it to simmer for about 2-3 minutes, just enough to heat through. Taste the sauce and add salt and pepper as needed.
  11. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the creamy pesto sauce. Toss to combine, ensuring the pasta is well coated.
  12. Slice the cooked chicken into strips and add it to the pasta, along with the halved cherry tomatoes.
  13. Gently toss everything together until combined and heated through.
  14. Remove from heat and serve immediately. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil leaves.

Notes

You can use any type of pasta you prefer, and adjust the creaminess to your liking. Adding additional vegetables like spinach or bell peppers is also a great option.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken, pasta, pesto, creamy pasta, easy recipe

Find it online: https://dishfoody.com/creamy-chicken-pesto-pasta/