There’s something irresistibly charming about creamy chicken pesto pasta. Imagine twirling your fork around perfectly cooked al dente pasta coated in a luscious green sauce, bursting with the aromatic flavors of basil and garlic. Each bite presents a delightful harmony of textures: tender chicken mingling with creamy goodness that dances like a culinary symphony on your taste buds. For more inspiration, check out this lunch options recipe.
This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that whisks you away to an Italian trattoria. I remember the first time I made this for my friends during a casual get-together. The moment they took their first bites, their eyes widened in delight, and soon enough they were fighting over the last spoonful. It’s perfect for cozy dinners, spontaneous gatherings, or even impressing that special someone. Get ready to dive into a flavor explosion you won’t forget! For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This creamy chicken pesto pasta is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- With its rich and vibrant flavors, it will leave everyone craving more
- The visual appeal of the green pesto against the creamy backdrop makes it a feast for the eyes as well
- Versatile enough to be customized with seasonal veggies or different proteins, you’ll find endless ways to enjoy it
I’ll never forget the laughter and joy around the table when my friends polished off every last bite of this creamy chicken pesto pasta; it was a night filled with good food and even better company.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Fresh chicken breasts are best; about 3-4 should suffice depending on your crowd.
Pasta (Fusilli or Penne): Choose your favorite shape; I love fusilli because it holds onto that sauce beautifully.
Fresh Basil Pesto: Store-bought works fine, but homemade adds an extra layer of love and flavor.
Heavy Cream: This is what makes everything truly creamy and dreamy; don’t skimp here!
Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh cheese for that nutty flavor; it’s worth the extra effort.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic adds warmth; opt for 2-3 cloves depending on your taste buds.
Olive Oil: A drizzle enhances richness and helps sauté the chicken perfectly.
Salt and Pepper: Use these staples to season your dish to perfection.
Cherry Tomatoes (optional): These add color and sweetness if you’re feeling adventurous!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta
Cook the Pasta: Boil water in a large pot; add salt generously before tossing in your chosen pasta. Cook until al dente according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper before adding them to the hot skillet. Cook until golden brown on both sides and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side.
Add Garlic & Cream: Once your chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet. In the same pan, toss in minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—just about 30 seconds—before adding heavy cream. Stir well for a delightful aroma!
Mix in Pesto & Cheese: Reduce heat slightly before stirring in basil pesto along with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until everything melds beautifully into a creamy sauce that’s hard to resist.
Toss Everything Together: Slice your cooked chicken into strips or cubes before adding it back into the skillet along with drained pasta. Toss gently until every piece of pasta is coated with that glorious sauce.
Add Final Touches & Serve!: If you’re using cherry tomatoes, toss them in now for freshness! Plate up generous servings while still warm, garnishing with extra basil or cheese if desired.
Now you have a beautiful plate of creamy chicken pesto pasta ready to impress! Enjoy every mouthful as you savor flavors that dance on your palate like no other dish can!
You Must Know
- This creamy chicken pesto pasta is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl
- The rich, vibrant flavors meld perfectly, making each bite an experience
- Plus, it’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but fancy enough for date night
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve creamy chicken pesto pasta perfection, sear the chicken first, then boil the pasta while preparing the sauce to save time and enhance flavors.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize this dish by adding sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, or even swapping chicken for shrimp or veggies for a delightful twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on low heat with a splash of broth to revive the creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh basil pesto for maximum flavor; store-bought can’t compete
- Cook pasta until al dente to avoid mushiness
- Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving for the best results
Sharing this creamy chicken pesto pasta recipe reminds me of family gatherings where laughter filled the air and plates were passed around until empty.
FAQ
Can I use store-bought pesto for this recipe?
Yes, store-bought pesto works fine but homemade adds more flavor and freshness.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta to enjoy creamy chicken pesto goodness.
What should I serve with creamy chicken pesto pasta?
A side salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this rich and creamy dish.
Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta
Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken and al dente pasta in a rich, vibrant basil pesto sauce. This comforting meal is quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. With its creamy texture and aromatic flavors, each bite offers a taste of Italy that will leave you craving more.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 12 oz fusilli or penne pasta
- 1 cup fresh basil pesto (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2–3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot. Add pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then cook for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from skillet and slice.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds before pouring in heavy cream. Stir well.
- Combine: Lower heat and mix in pesto and Parmesan until smooth. Return sliced chicken to the skillet along with drained pasta; toss to coat evenly.
- Final Touches: If using cherry tomatoes, add them now for freshness. Serve warm, garnished with extra basil or cheese if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 570
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Customize by adding veggies like spinach or swapping chicken for shrimp for a twist. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently with broth to maintain creaminess.
