The aroma of creamy pesto chicken pasta fills the kitchen, teasing your senses with promises of basil, garlic, and a delightful richness that dances on your tongue. savory cheesesteak roll ups Imagine twirling those luscious noodles around your fork, each bite a perfect balance of creaminess and vibrant flavor. flavorful Mediterranean steak bowls For more inspiration, check out this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta recipe.
This dish is not just a meal; it’s a celebration waiting to happen every time you serve it up. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an impromptu gathering with friends, creamy pesto chicken pasta makes any occasion feel special. delicious creamy salmon dish
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This creamy pesto chicken pasta offers ease of preparation, perfect for busy weeknights
- Its rich flavor profile will leave you craving more while its vibrant colors make it visually appealing
- You can easily adjust ingredients based on what you have available in your pantry or fridge
- The versatility means it’s great for various occasions, from casual meals to sophisticated get-togethers
One memorable evening, I prepared this dish for friends who were having a tough week. Their delighted reactions made my heart swell as they indulged in seconds and thirds, all while sharing stories and laughter.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts work well; adjust quantity based on the number of diners.
- Pasta of Choice: I love using fettuccine for its ability to hold sauce beautifully.
- Pesto Sauce: Fresh basil pesto is best; store-bought works too in a pinch!
- Heavy Cream: This adds that dreamy creaminess essential to the dish’s character.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh cheese for maximum flavor impact and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Their sweetness brightens the dish and adds a pop of color.
- Spinach: Fresh spinach wilts down nicely, adding nutrients and vibrant green hues.
- Garlic: Use fresh cloves for an aromatic boost that elevates the overall flavor.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle helps sauté ingredients while adding richness to the dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes.
Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and let it warm up. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper before placing them in the skillet. Cook each side until golden brown, about 6-7 minutes per side.
Add Aromatics: Once the chicken is cooked through and has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), remove it from the skillet and let it rest. In the same skillet, toss in minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, around 30 seconds should do!
Create the Sauce: Reduce heat to low. Pour in heavy cream while scraping up any delicious bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Stir in pesto sauce until well combined.
Combine Everything: Slice chicken into strips once rested. Add cooked pasta, sliced chicken, spinach, cherry tomatoes, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce mixture. Toss gently until everything is well coated—about 2-3 minutes.
Serve & Enjoy!: Plate your creamy pesto chicken pasta with extra Parmesan on top if desired. refreshing lemon orzo salad Serve immediately while hot; watch how quickly it disappears!
This creamy pesto chicken pasta showcases how simple ingredients can create an unforgettable meal that keeps everyone coming back for more. Plus, you’ll find yourself basking in compliments as you savor each bite together! For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.
You Must Know
- This creamy pesto chicken pasta is not just delicious; it’s a hug in a bowl
- The blend of herbs and cream creates a symphony of flavors
- Plus, it’s quick enough to whip up when your friends drop by unexpectedly
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken until golden brown, then cook the pasta while preparing the pesto sauce. This method ensures everything finishes at the same time for optimal flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out chicken for shrimp or add sun-dried tomatoes for an extra zing. A sprinkle of parmesan will take your dish from good to gourmet!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover creamy pesto chicken pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream if needed.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always season your water when boiling pasta; it adds flavor from the start
- Make sure not to overcook the chicken—juicy is key!
- Experiment with different nuts in your pesto for unique flavors
The first time I made this dish, my friends devoured it so quickly that I barely had time to grab a plate! Their compliments felt like confetti at a party, and I knew I’d struck gold with this recipe.
FAQ
Can I use store-bought pesto for creamy pesto chicken pasta?
Yes, store-bought pesto can save time without sacrificing flavor.
How do I make this dish vegetarian?
Substitute chicken with grilled vegetables or chickpeas for a hearty option.
What type of pasta works best with this recipe?
Fusilli or penne are great choices as they hold the sauce beautifully.
Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the rich flavors of creamy pesto chicken pasta, where tender chicken, vibrant basil pesto, and al dente fettuccine unite for a delightful meal. This dish not only satisfies your cravings but also adds a touch of elegance to any gathering—perfect for both family dinners and special occasions. Experience the harmony of creaminess and fresh ingredients that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 cup fresh basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- 1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- 2. Sauté the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp should reach 165°F). Remove from skillet and let rest.
- 3. Add Aromatics: In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- 4. Create the Sauce: Reduce heat to low, add heavy cream, scraping up any bits from the pan. Stir in pesto until well combined.
- 5. Combine Everything: Slice rested chicken into strips and add it back to the skillet along with cooked pasta, spinach, cherry tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese. Toss gently for about 2-3 minutes until everything is coated.
- 6. Serve & Enjoy: Plate with extra Parmesan on top if desired and serve hot.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 400g)
- Calories: 675
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 880mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in pesto before cooking. Swap chicken for shrimp or grilled vegetables for a variation. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently on the stove.
