The aroma of freshly cooked pasta mingling with the rich, herby scent of pesto is like a symphony for your senses. Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is comfort food that hugs you from the inside out, combining tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a luscious pesto sauce that dances on your taste buds. cilantro garlic sauce Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a last-minute gathering with friends, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
Jump to:
- Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta
- How to Make Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- FAQs:
- What ingredients do I need for Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta?
- How long does it take to prepare Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta?
- Can I make Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta ahead of time?
- Is Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta healthy?
- Conclusion for Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta:
- 📖 Recipe Card
Picture this: It’s a rainy Tuesday evening, and all you want is something warm and comforting. As the rain patters against your window, you whip up this delightful meal that not only brings warmth but also transports you to an Italian bistro without leaving your kitchen. Trust me; every forkful will have you dreaming of sunny days and candlelit dinners.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This creamy chicken pesto pasta delivers mouthwatering flavors while being super easy to prepare.
- You can serve it as a festive main course or a cozy weeknight dinner.
- The vibrant green pesto not only tastes amazing but looks stunning on any plate.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with whatever veggies or proteins you have lying around!
Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta
For more inspiration, check out this chicken burrito bowls recipe.
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but feel free to adjust according to how many mouths you’re feeding.
- Pasta: Any pasta works here, but I love using fettuccine or penne for that perfect creamy coating.
- Pesto Sauce: Store-bought works in a pinch, but if you’re feeling adventurous, homemade pesto takes it to another level.
- Heavy Cream: This gives your dish that rich creaminess we all crave who doesn’t love creamy chicken pasta?
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese enhances the flavor and adds that delicious cheesy goodness.
For the Garnish:
- Fresh Basil Leaves: A sprinkle of fresh basil brightens up the dish and adds an aromatic touch.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients; it makes cooking smoother than butter on warm toast. Chop your chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Toss in your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente remember, we want some bite left!
Step 3: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Once hot, toss in those chicken pieces! Season generously with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and fully cooked through about 7-10 minutes should do the trick.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
With the chicken perfectly cooked, lower the heat and pour in heavy cream along with pesto sauce. Stir well until everything is combined into creamy perfection; let it simmer for about five minutes to meld those flavors together.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Drain your pasta (reserving a cup of pasta water), then add it right into your skillet with the creamy chicken mixture. If things look too thick, add some reserved pasta water until you achieve that dreamy consistency.
Step 6: Serve It Up
Transfer everything onto plates or into shallow bowls. Top generously with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with basil leaves for that final touch!
Now sit back as your family or guests rave about this culinary masterpiece trust me; they won’t stop talking about it until dessert arrives! Enjoy every creamy forkful of this succulent delight that’s sure to become a staple in your home-cooked repertoire!
You Must Know
- This creamy chicken pesto pasta is not just a dish; it’s an experience.
- With its rich flavors and delightful textures, it transforms any meal into a celebration.
- It’s perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself after a long day.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken to lock in those juicy flavors. While the chicken cooks, boil the pasta until al dente. Then whip up your creamy pesto sauce while everything simmers together for a perfect harmony of tastes.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your creamy chicken pesto pasta! Swap chicken for shrimp or add veggies like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes. Experiment with different nuts in your pesto, such as walnuts or cashews, to create a unique twist. For more inspiration, check out this creamy lemon shrimp pasta recipe.
Storing & Reheating
To store leftover creamy chicken pesto pasta, seal it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. chicken caesar wrap When reheating, add a splash of cream or broth to keep it moist and delicious.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F.
- Always reserve some pasta water when draining; it’s gold for adjusting your sauce consistency.
- Lastly, don’t skip fresh basil it’s the secret star that elevates every bite!
Sometimes I make this creamy chicken pesto pasta for friends, and their reactions are pure joy! It’s become my go-to dish for casual gatherings, and they always ask for seconds who doesn’t love being the star chef?
FAQs:
What ingredients do I need for Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta?
To make Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta, you will need pasta of your choice, chicken breast, fresh basil pesto, heavy cream, garlic, olive oil, parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. You can also add vegetables like cherry tomatoes or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition. tomato basil pasta dish This dish is versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite ingredients while maintaining the creamy texture and rich taste.
How long does it take to prepare Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta?
Preparing Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta typically takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. This includes cooking the pasta, sautéing the chicken, and combining all ingredients. The quick preparation makes this dish perfect for weeknight dinners or when you’re short on time but still want a delicious meal that feels gourmet.
Can I make Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta ahead of time. Cook the pasta and chicken in advance and store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat them gently on the stove with a splash of cream and fresh pesto to keep it creamy and flavorful. This method saves you time and allows for a quick meal later.
Is Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta healthy?
creamy mac and cheese used to lighten it up. Adding vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers boosts its nutritional value while still keeping the creamy texture that makes this dish so enjoyable.
Conclusion for Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta:
Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with rich flavors of basil pesto and creamy sauce. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights. By customizing your ingredients and controlling portion sizes, you can enjoy this dish while keeping it healthy. Whether served as a comforting dinner or a meal prep option, this recipe delivers on taste without sacrificing time or effort. Enjoy every bite!
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📖 Recipe Card
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Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is the ultimate comfort dish that combines tender chicken and al dente pasta enveloped in a rich, herby pesto sauce. This quick and satisfying recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, bringing a taste of Italy to your table. With vibrant colors and delightful flavors, each bite feels like a warm culinary embrace, making it a favorite for families and friends alike.
Ingredients
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
- 1 cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
- Cook the pasta in boiling salted water according to package instructions until al dente.
- In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and sauté the chicken until golden brown and fully cooked (7-10 minutes). Season with salt and pepper.
- Lower the heat, stir in heavy cream and pesto sauce; simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Drain the pasta (reserve some water) and mix it into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
- Serve garnished with Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 680
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 42g
- Saturated Fat: 24g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 49g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
