Creamy pesto chicken pasta is a quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying meal that's perfect for a weeknight dinner. This recipe elevates the classic pesto pasta by adding tender chicken and a luscious cream sauce, creating a dish that's both comforting and flavorful. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
What Makes This Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Recipe So Special?
This recipe stands out because it strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and flavor. We're not talking about complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. Instead, we focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients and a few simple steps to create a restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen. The creamy sauce adds richness and depth, perfectly complementing the vibrant pesto and savory chicken.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 1/2 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, or red pepper flakes for added flavor and color
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
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Cook the Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic during the last minute of cooking.
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Create the Creamy Pesto Sauce: Stir in the pesto and heavy cream to the skillet with the chicken. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
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Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the chicken and sauce. Toss to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
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Finish and Serve: Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, or red pepper flakes, if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with various pasta shapes, including penne, rotini, farfalle, fusilli, and even spaghetti. Choose your favorite!
What kind of pesto is best?
Both store-bought and homemade pesto work great. If using store-bought, choose a high-quality pesto with fresh basil.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While it's best served fresh, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Cook the pasta and combine everything just before serving.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Yes! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as cherry tomatoes, spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. Add them to the skillet with the chicken or toss them in with the pasta at the end.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
To make it healthier, use whole wheat pasta, reduce the amount of heavy cream, and add more vegetables. You can also substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or even Greek yogurt for a lighter sauce.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcook the pasta. It should be al dente (firm to the bite).
- Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a little more pasta water to thin it out.
- Get creative with your garnishes!
This creamy pesto chicken pasta recipe is a delightful and easy meal that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!
