Name: Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs); 8 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or spiral); 1 cup fresh basil pesto (store-bought or homemade); 1 cup heavy cream; ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 3 garlic cloves, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil

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Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is like a cozy hug on a plate, with its rich, velvety texture and the aromatic embrace of basil dancing alongside tender chicken. Imagine twirling your fork through a sea of creamy goodness, where every bite sends you on a flavor adventure that’s both comforting and delightfully fresh. For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Lemon Shrimp Pasta recipe.

Now, let me take you back to that fateful dinner party when I first made this dish. Picture it: friends gathered around, laughter filling the air, and me nervously sweating over the stove. When I finally served up my Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta, it was met with gasps of delight and forks clattering against plates. That night, I realized that good food could turn any occasion into a memorable feast.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta recipe combines ease of preparation with vibrant flavors that excite the palate.
The dish is visually stunning, making it an instant crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
You can customize ingredients based on personal preferences or dietary needs, adding to its versatility for any dinner table.
Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike!

Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts will do nicely; adjust based on your hungry crew.
Pasta: Your choice fettuccine, penne, or even spiral pasta works wonders here.
Fresh Basil Pesto: Store-bought or homemade; either way, it adds that vibrant flavor kick!
Heavy Cream: For that luscious creaminess that makes this dish irresistible.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated for the best flavor; it’s like sprinkles for grown-ups!
Cherry Tomatoes: Halved for a pop of color and sweetness in every bite.

For the Sauce:

Garlic: Fresh cloves are best; they’ll elevate this dish from ordinary to extraordinary.

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: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside while you work your magic on the chicken.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper before placing them in the hot skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and let rest.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

In the same skillet (because who wants extra dishes?), add minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Mix in Pesto

Stir in your basil pesto until combined with the cream. The colors will be vibrant as if summer just walked into your kitchen! Add freshly grated Parmesan cheese slowly while stirring until melted and smooth.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Slice your cooked chicken into strips and toss it back into the skillet along with cherry tomatoes and cooked pasta. Stir everything together until each piece is coated in that creamy goodness.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Transfer servings onto plates (or bowls if you’re feeling adventurous) and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh basil leaves if you have them handy. The perfect finishing touch!

And there you have it! A delightful plate of Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta ready to impress family or friends—or just yourself after a long day!

You Must Know

This creamy chicken pesto pasta brings together rich flavors and simple ingredients, making it a perfect weeknight dinner.
The vibrant green of the pesto and the golden chicken will make your plate sing.
Plus, it’s easy to whip up in just one pot, so less mess for you!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Begin by searing the chicken to lock in those delicious juices. While that’s happening, cook your pasta to al dente perfection. Once both are ready, mix everything with that irresistible creamy pesto sauce for a harmonious dish.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap the chicken for shrimp or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian twist. Add sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for an extra burst of flavor. The possibilities are endless!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or broth to keep it creamy and delicious as it warms up.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfectly tender chicken, let it rest after cooking before slicing.
This keeps all those juicy flavors locked in.
Don’t skip on salting your pasta water; it’s essential for flavor.
Lastly, fresh basil adds a beautiful finish and vibrant aroma!

Sometimes I whip up this creamy chicken pesto pasta when friends come over, and they can’t get enough! Their compliments always make me feel like a culinary genius even if I barely broke a sweat in the kitchen!

FAQs :

What ingredients do I need for Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta?

To make Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta, you’ll need chicken breasts, pasta of your choice, fresh basil pesto, heavy cream, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. You can also add vegetables like cherry tomatoes or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition. tomato basil pasta Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste. This dish combines all these ingredients into a creamy, flavorful meal that is both satisfying and quick to prepare.

How long does it take to prepare Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta?

Preparing Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. Cooking the pasta usually takes around 10-12 minutes, while the chicken needs about 15 minutes to cook thoroughly. If you prep your ingredients ahead of time, you could reduce the overall cooking time even further. This makes it a perfect weeknight dinner option when you’re short on time but still want a delicious meal.

Can I make Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta ahead of time?

Yes, you can definitely make Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta ahead of time! Prepare the dish as usual, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. Just remember that the pasta may absorb some of the sauce during storage, so you might want to add a splash of cream or broth when reheating.

What can I serve with Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta?

creamy chicken salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish perfectly. Garlic bread or crusty baguette also works well for soaking up any leftover sauce. creamy cilantro garlic sauce For an added touch, consider serving roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli alongside your pasta for a balanced meal that everyone will love.

Conclusion for Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta :

In summary, Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is an easy and delightful dish that combines tender chicken and creamy pesto sauce over your favorite pasta. With just a few key ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions alike. chicken caesar wrap Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or side dishes to enhance its flavor and nutritional value. Enjoy this delicious meal that is sure to satisfy your cravings!