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Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe

Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe


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4.7 from 15 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Homemade creamy chicken pesto pasta delivers Italian comfort with elegant simplicity. Fragrant basil and tender chicken combine in a quick weeknight meal that delights home cooks and satisfies hungry families.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 12 ounces (340 grams) pasta (penne or fusilli)
  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed
  • 1 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Seasoning and Aromatics:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Optional Garnish:

  • Cherry tomatoes
  • Fresh basil leaves

Instructions

  1. Boil pasta in salted water according to package directions until al dente, then thoroughly drain and reserve.
  2. Warm olive oil in a spacious skillet over medium-high heat, introducing minced garlic and sautéing until aromatic and lightly golden.
  3. Incorporate shredded chicken into the skillet, allowing it to heat through and absorb the garlic’s fragrance for approximately 2-3 minutes.
  4. Pour in rich pesto and velvety heavy cream, whisking meticulously to create a harmonious, silky sauce that combines seamlessly.
  5. Introduce drained pasta into the skillet, gently tumbling the noodles to ensure complete and even coating with the luxurious sauce.
  6. Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese throughout the mixture, seasoning with salt and cracked black pepper to enhance the overall flavor profile.
  7. For a vibrant finishing touch, scatter halved cherry tomatoes and delicate fresh basil leaves across the top, creating a visually appealing presentation.
  8. Transfer immediately to serving plates, maintaining the dish’s optimal temperature and creamy consistency. Serve hot for maximum enjoyment.

Notes

  • Customize the protein by swapping chicken with shredded turkey, tofu, or plant-based alternatives for different dietary preferences.
  • For a lighter version, replace heavy cream with Greek yogurt or coconut milk to reduce calories while maintaining creamy texture.
  • Enhance nutrition by adding spinach, roasted vegetables, or pine nuts directly into the pasta for extra flavor and nutrients.
  • Meal prep friendly: Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days, gently reheating with a splash of additional cream to restore sauce consistency.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 565 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 410 mg
  • Fat: 32 g
  • Saturated Fat: 11 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 19 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 44 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 34 g
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg