This creamy chicken pesto pasta is a lovely dish that’s quick to whip up! It’s packed with tender chicken, fresh basil pesto, and creamy sauce that hugs every noodle.
Honestly, it’s like a hug in a bowl! I love to sprinkle some extra cheese on top before serving. Trust me, it’s the perfect comfort food for any weeknight dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: Penne is perfect for capturing the creamy sauce, but you can easily swap it for fusilli, rigatoni, or even whole wheat pasta if you prefer something healthier.
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work well, but turkey or even tofu are great alternatives for a different twist or a vegetarian option.
Basil Pesto: Store-bought pesto saves time, but making your own with fresh basil, nuts, and olive oil takes the flavor up a notch. If basil is hard to find, try spinach or arugula for a unique pesto experience.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter dish, consider using half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative like coconut cream. Just keep in mind that it might alter the flavor slightly.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan has the best flavor. If you can’t find it, Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a vegan option can work as substitutes.
How Do You Make Sure the Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken to perfection is crucial in this recipe. Start by ensuring the skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken. This helps to sear the outside and locks in the juices.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper for extra flavor.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown all over. Use a meat thermometer—it should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed to ensure even cooking.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to keep it juicy before adding it back to the sauce.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz penne pasta
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy chicken pesto pasta recipe takes about 20-25 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10-12 minutes cooking the pasta and chicken, and about 10 minutes making the sauce and combining everything. A quick and delicious meal option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once it’s done, drain it in a colander and set it aside for later.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
While the pasta cooks, grab your chicken pieces and season them with a sprinkle of salt and pepper for extra flavor. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for about 5-7 minutes until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Once done, take the chicken out of the skillet and set it aside.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and let it cook for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant. Then, lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Stir frequently and let it simmer gently for about 2-3 minutes. Afterward, stir in the basil pesto and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing them together until you have a smooth and creamy sauce.
4. Combine Everything:
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Add the cooked pasta, chicken pieces, and halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet with the sauce. Gently toss everything together so that the pasta is well-coated with that delicious creamy pesto sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to warm up all the ingredients nicely.
5. Finish and Serve:
Once everything is warmed through, remove the skillet from heat. Garnish your pasta dish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan cheese. Serve it hot and enjoy your creamy chicken pesto pasta!
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! You can substitute penne with gluten-free pasta. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions, as gluten-free pasta may vary in cooking duration.
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Yes, if you prefer a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or whole milk. For a dairy-free option, coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative will also work, though it may slightly change the flavor.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave gently or warm on the stove, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce if necessary.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! You can add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers. Just sauté them briefly with the garlic before adding the cream and other ingredients for added flavor and nutrition.
