Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

There’s something truly special about the comforting embrace of a dish like Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta. This recipe came to life one rainy afternoon when I found myself rummaging through the pantry, searching for a way to brighten the gloomy day. With just a few ingredients on hand, I whipped up this creamy delight that immediately filled my kitchen with its rich aroma. The blend of tender chicken, fresh basil pesto, and luscious heavy cream creates a symphony of flavors that dances on your palate. Every bite brought warmth and comfort, and all I could think was how perfect it was for sharing with loved ones. As I twirled the pasta around my fork and took that first heavenly bite, I realized this was more than just a meal; it was a moment, a memory in the making.

Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Shopping List

The ingredients for Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta are simple yet incredibly flavorful, coming together to create a dish that never disappoints. The star players are the fresh basil pesto and heavy cream, which meld beautifully with the chicken and pasta to form a sauce that is both indulgent and comforting. Each component plays a crucial role in delivering that satisfying taste and creamy texture we all crave.

• 8 ounces dried pasta (half a box, I used penne) – This is the base of your dish, providing the perfect vehicle for the creamy sauce.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – Adds richness and helps to cook the chicken.
• 1 pound chicken breasts (about 3, cut into ¾ to 1 inch pieces) – Juicy and tender, this is the protein that makes the dish hearty.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Essential for seasoning.
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper – Adds a touch of warmth and depth.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that enhances the flavor profile.
• 1 tablespoon butter – For sautéing the garlic and adding richness.
• 3 cloves garlic (minced) – Infuses the dish with aromatic flavor.
• ¾ cup heavy cream (180ml) – This is what gives the dish its creamy texture.
• ¼ cup freshly grated parmesan – A key ingredient that adds a nutty flavor.
• ½ cup basil pesto – The star of the show that ties all the flavors together.

Step by Step Guide for Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

Making Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is a straightforward process that yields delicious results. With a few simple steps, you’ll have a comforting meal on the table in no time. Let’s dive into the details!

1. Begin by filling a medium-sized saucepan with water and adding a generous amount of salt. This is crucial as it flavors the pasta as it cooks. Bring the water to a boil over high heat.

2. Once the water is boiling, add the dried pasta. Stir it occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8 to 10 minutes. Be sure to reserve 1 cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta. This water is starchy and will help adjust the sauce’s consistency later.

3. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces, seasoning them with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken for about 5 to 7 minutes, turning occasionally until it’s golden brown and cooked through. You can check for doneness with a kitchen thermometer; it should register at least 165°F/74°C.

4. Next, deglaze the skillet by adding a couple of tablespoons of the reserved pasta water. Scrape the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon to lift any brown bits. This will add flavor to your sauce.

5. Now, add the butter to the skillet and let it melt. Once melted, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds. You want the garlic to become fragrant but not browned, as burnt garlic can taste bitter.

6. After the garlic has sautéed, pour in the heavy cream and whisk it together with the garlic and butter. Allow the mixture to heat up slightly.

7. Next, add in the parmesan cheese and basil pesto. Whisk them in until smooth. Cook the sauce for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, just until the cheese has melted and the sauce is warmed through. Be careful not to overcook the sauce, as it can cause the pesto to lose its vibrant green color.

8. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add more reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. It should be creamy and coat the back of a spoon.

9. Finally, add the drained pasta and the cooked chicken to the sauce. Gently toss everything together until the pasta is well coated and combined with the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

10. Serve immediately and enjoy your Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta with extra grated parmesan on top if desired. It’s best enjoyed fresh!

Tips and Variations

There are many ways to enhance or adapt your Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta. Here are some tips and variations to consider:

• Add vegetables: You can incorporate vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers to add color and nutrition.
• Use different proteins: Swap out the chicken for shrimp or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
• Spice it up: If you like some heat, consider adding red pepper flakes to the sauce for an extra kick.
• Make it ahead: You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for easy meal prep.
• Garnish: Don’t forget to garnish with fresh basil or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added flavor and presentation.

Side Dish Ideas for Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

When it comes to serving Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta, there are plenty of delicious side dishes that can complement this rich meal. Here are some ideas:

• Garlic Bread: A classic pairing, warm garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Caesar Salad: A crisp and refreshing Caesar salad adds a nice contrast to the creaminess of the pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus bring color and health to your plate.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli is not only healthy but also adds a vibrant color.
• Caprese Salad: A simple salad of fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil makes for a refreshing side.
• Wine Pairing: Consider serving this dish with a light, crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing drink.

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that brings warmth and joy to the table. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, you’ll want to make it again and again. So why not give it a try tonight? Your taste buds will thank you for this delightful dish!

Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

The ultimate comfort food, Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is a luscious, creamy delight that comes together in just minutes. Packed with tender chicken, flavorful basil pesto, and rich cream, it’s perfect for an easy weeknight dinner. Make it tonight for a satisfying meal that everyone will love!

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 620

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 8 ounces dried pasta half a box, I used penne
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound chicken breasts about 3, cut into ¾ to 1 inch pieces
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon italian seasoning
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• ¾ cup heavy cream (180ml)
• ¼ cup freshly grated parmesan
• ½ cup basil pesto

Equipment

• Saucepan
• Skillet
• Wooden Spoon
• Whisk

Method

 

1. In a medium-sized saucepan, boil water and salt it. Add your pasta, and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. When the pasta is cooked, reserve 1 cup of the pasta water and drain the pasta.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and add chicken. Season with salt, pepper, and italian seasoning. Cook the chicken until browned and cooked through. You can use a kitchen thermometer to be sure that it has an internal temperature of 165°F/74°C.
3. Deglaze the skillet with a couple tablespoons of water (or pasta water), just to get the fond (brown bits), and scrape off with a wooden spoon. Then melt butter and saute garlic for 30 seconds.
4. Add cream, whisk, then add parmesan and basil pesto. Whisk and cook the sauce for 30 seconds to 1 minute or until the parmesan cheese has melted and the sauce is warmed up. Avoid overcooking, as that can make the pesto turn yellow. Add pasta water to thin the sauce if needed.
5. Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the sauce, and gently mix everything together until combined.

Notes

• This recipe will taste best if you make it with homemade pesto and freshly grated parmesan cheese.
• Avoid overcooking the pasta. Cook it just until al dente.
• Don’t forget to save some of the pasta water! This will help you deglaze the pan, and you can use it to thin out the sauce at the end if you need to.
• To Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, and enjoy within 3 days. This dish is best when it’s fresh. When reheating, add a splash of water to make the pasta saucy again.

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Meet Blaire Holloway

Taking traditional feast recipes and giving them a modern, vibrant twist is what drives me. I want to keep your menu exciting and fresh. I handled the cooking and photography for this recipe, working to bridge the gap between classic comfort and contemporary flavor for your table.