Description
Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is a delightful Italian-inspired main course featuring tender chicken breast sautéed to perfection and tossed with pasta in a luscious basil pesto and cream sauce. This easy stovetop recipe combines rich flavors and simple ingredients to create a comforting and satisfying meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 12 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine)
Chicken & Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup prepared basil pesto
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Additions & Garnish
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain and set the pasta aside.
- Sauté the Chicken: While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Prepare the Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and basil pesto. Let the mixture simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until warmed through and slightly thickened.
- Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss well to coat evenly with the creamy pesto sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, to loosen it to your desired consistency. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and cherry tomatoes if using.
- Serve and Garnish: Transfer the creamy chicken pesto pasta to serving plates or bowls. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious meal.
Notes
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative for a lighter or dairy-free version.
- For extra nutrition and flavor, add fresh spinach or sautéed zucchini to the dish along with the chicken.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.
