Description

Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is a rich and flavorful dish combining tender chicken, creamy pesto sauce, and al dente pasta for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Salt and pepper to taste
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups heavy cream
1/2 cup basil pesto
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
12 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine)
1/4 cup reserved pasta water
Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer.
Add the pesto and Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce is well combined and smooth.
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat in the sauce.
Add the cooked pasta and a bit of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if necessary.
Toss everything together until well coated and heated through.
Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil if desired.

Notes

You can use store-bought or homemade pesto.
Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream for a lighter version.
Add sun-dried tomatoes or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
This dish pairs well with garlic bread and a side salad.