Description
Chicken Pesto Pasta is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings together tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a creamy basil pesto sauce. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this delicious meal, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. The combination of fresh herbs and rich sauce creates a delightful experience that will leave your family and friends asking for seconds. Customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping proteins to suit your taste preferences. Serve it warm for a comforting dinner or chilled as a refreshing pasta salad—either way, it promises to impress!
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine)
- 1 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
- Cook the pasta in boiling salted water until al dente; reserve some pasta water before draining.
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the chicken in olive oil until golden brown (about 6-8 minutes).
- Add the cooked pasta and pesto to the skillet, along with a splash of reserved pasta water.
- Stir in heavy cream and simmer for 2 minutes until well combined.
- Serve topped with extra pesto and freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes
For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in pesto overnight.
Feel free to customize with vegetables like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or bell peppers.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (250g)
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 670mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: - For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in pesto overnight.- Feel free to customize with vegetables like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or bell peppers.