Pesto Chicken Pasta
Pesto Chicken Pasta is a delightful fusion of tender chicken, al dente pasta, and vibrant basil pesto that creates a mouthwatering dish perfect for any occasion. This quick and easy recipe brings the flavors of Italy right to your kitchen, making it ideal for busy weeknights or festive gatherings. With fresh ingredients and a creamy sauce that clings beautifully to every bite, this pasta dish will leave your family and friends asking for seconds.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup fresh basil pesto
- 12 oz fusilli or penne pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Boil salted water in a large pot. Add pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions.
- In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Cook seasoned chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown. Let rest before slicing.
- In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Add heavy cream to create a creamy base.
- Stir in basil pesto and halved cherry tomatoes; let simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Add cooked pasta and sliced chicken into the skillet, tossing well to coat evenly.
- Plate with freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top and serve warm.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (around 350g)
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: Customize by swapping chicken for shrimp or adding veggies like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes. For a lighter option, reduce heavy cream or substitute with low-fat alternatives.