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
Scale
- 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