Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe

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Introduction

Chicken Pesto Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dinner combining tender chicken, al dente pasta, fragrant basil pesto, and Parmesan cheese. The pesto adds a fresh herby flavor while the creamy sauce coats every bite beautifully. It’s an easy weeknight meal that feels restaurant-worthy without requiring complicated ingredients. Serve it with garlic bread or a crisp salad for a satisfying family dinner.

Prep Time

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

  • Chicken breast: Adds tender, savory protein; substitute boneless chicken thighs.
  • Pasta: Penne, fusilli, or spaghetti work well; substitute whole-wheat pasta.
  • Basil pesto: Provides fresh, garlicky herb flavor; substitute homemade pesto.
  • Heavy cream: Creates a smooth, creamy sauce; substitute half-and-half.
  • Parmesan cheese: Adds salty, nutty richness; substitute Pecorino Romano.
  • Garlic: Deepens the savory flavor; substitute garlic powder.

Preparation & Cooking

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente according to the package directions. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and cooked through.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds. Stir in the heavy cream and pesto, then simmer gently for 2–3 minutes.

Step 5: Combine

Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet. Toss everything together, adding a little reserved pasta water if the sauce needs loosening.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Stir in Parmesan until melted and creamy. Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan, then serve immediately.

Tips

  • Cook the pasta just until al dente so it holds its texture in the creamy sauce.
  • Don't boil the pesto sauce aggressively, as gentle heat helps preserve its fresh basil flavor.
  • Reserve pasta water to adjust the sauce to your preferred consistency.
  • Add freshly grated Parmesan at the end for the smoothest, richest finish.
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