Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe
This Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is a rich and flavorful dish made with juicy chicken, creamy sauce, and vibrant pesto. It’s quick to make and perfect for a comforting meal that’s full of delicious Italian flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
- 8 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your choice)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
- Extra Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook the chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest for a few minutes. Then slice it into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.
- Make the Creamy Pesto Sauce:
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken slightly.
- Stir in the pesto and Parmesan cheese. Continue to simmer for 2-3 more minutes until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy pesto sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Serve:
- Plate the pasta and top with the sliced chicken. Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese.
Tips:
- Add Veggies: For added nutrition, consider adding sautéed spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted vegetables to the pasta.
- Make it Lighter: For a lighter version, use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream.
- For Extra Flavor: Add a squeeze of lemon juice over the pasta before serving for a fresh burst of flavor.
This Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is a simple yet indulgent dish that’s packed with flavor and sure to please your whole family!