Description
Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is a rich, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that combines tender chicken, fresh basil pesto, and a creamy Parmesan sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal, this pasta recipe is satisfying, delicious, and highly customizable. Serve it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal!
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients:
2 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
2 cups pasta (penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup basil pesto (homemade or store-bought)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
3 cloves garlic (minced)
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Optional Add-ons for Extra Flavor:
Cherry tomatoes (halved)
Spinach or arugula
Mushrooms
Sun-dried tomatoes
Mozzarella cheese
Best Type of Pasta to Use:
Penne – Holds the sauce well.
Fettuccine – Ideal for creamy sauces.
Rigatoni – Thick and perfect for absorbing flavors.
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken
Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.
Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 2: Making the Creamy Pesto Sauce
In the same pan, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
Stir in the basil pesto and Parmesan cheese, mixing well.
Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Step 3: Cooking the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water.
Step 4: Combining Everything
Add the cooked chicken back into the pan with the sauce.
Toss in the cooked pasta and stir to coat evenly.
If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.
Let everything cook together for 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh basil before serving.
Notes
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil, garlic, and Parmesan make a huge difference in flavor.
Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Cook just until done to keep it juicy and tender.
Adjust Sauce Consistency: If it’s too thick, add a splash of pasta water or milk; if too thin, let it simmer a bit longer.
Homemade Pesto is Best: If possible, make your own pesto for a fresher and more vibrant taste.
Use the Right Pasta: Choose pasta that holds sauce well, like penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni.
Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh while the sauce is creamy and smooth.
Reheat Properly: Add a little milk or cream when reheating to maintain the creamy texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes