As a passionate home cook, I know how hectic weeknights can get. That’s why I love making pesto chicken pasta. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a creamy, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug after a long day. The combination of tender chicken, al dente pasta, and rich basil pesto creates a delightful harmony that my family can’t resist. I remember the first time I made this for my kids; their eyes lit up with joy as they took their first bites. It’s become a staple in our home, perfect for those busy nights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become your go-to for a satisfying dinner that everyone will love.
Ingredients List
8 ounces of pasta: Choose penne or fettuccine for the best texture.
2 tablespoons olive oil: This will help cook the chicken and add flavor.
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
Salt and pepper: To taste, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
3/4 cup heavy cream: This creates the creamy base for the sauce.
1/2 cup basil pesto: The star ingredient that brings vibrant flavor.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds richness and depth to the sauce.
1 cup cherry tomatoes: Halved for a fresh burst of flavor.
Fresh basil leaves: For garnish, adding a pop of color and aroma.
How to Prepare Pesto Chicken Pasta
Making pesto chicken pasta is a breeze! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Remember to reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta. This starchy water will help adjust the sauce later!
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Pesto Sauce
In the same skillet, lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Stir in the basil pesto, allowing it to heat through for about 2-3 minutes. Then, add the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until it melts and creates a smooth, creamy sauce. The aroma will be irresistible!
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Now, it’s time to bring everything together! Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet with the creamy pesto sauce. Toss everything to combine well. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Don’t forget to stir in the halved cherry tomatoes for a fresh touch!
Step 5: Serve the Dish
Serve your creamy pesto chicken pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese if you like. This dish is best enjoyed right away, so gather your loved ones and dig in!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying a delicious meal like pesto chicken pasta, knowing the nutritional content can help you make informed choices. Here’s an estimated breakdown per serving:
Calories: 600
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 100mg
Sodium: 800mg
Carbohydrates: 60g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 30g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. Enjoy your meal with a sense of balance!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick Preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Creamy Texture: The rich sauce envelops the pasta and chicken beautifully.
Delicious Flavor: The combination of basil pesto and Parmesan creates a mouthwatering experience.
Family-Friendly: A dish that pleases both kids and adults alike.
Versatile: Easily adaptable with different proteins or veggies to suit your taste.
Tips for Success
To make your pesto chicken pasta truly shine, here are some pro tips:
Adjust Sauce Thickness: If your sauce is too thick, gradually add more reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil and high-quality pesto elevate the flavor. If possible, make your own pesto for a personal touch.
Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Keep an eye on the chicken while cooking. It should be golden brown and juicy, not dry.
Experiment with Veggies: Add spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrition and color.
Garnish Generously: A sprinkle of extra Parmesan and fresh basil makes for a beautiful presentation.
Variations
If you’re looking to mix things up with your pesto chicken pasta, here are some fun ideas:
Protein Swaps: Try shrimp, salmon, or even tofu for a different protein option.
Veggie Additions: Toss in some spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
Pasta Choices: Experiment with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier twist.
Herb Infusion: Add a touch of sun-dried tomatoes or arugula for a burst of flavor.
Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To store your leftover pesto chicken pasta, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce. Stir occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave it in a covered dish, stirring halfway for even heating. Enjoy your delicious leftovers!
What to Do Next
I’d love to hear how your pesto chicken pasta turned out! Please leave a comment below and share your thoughts or any tweaks you made. If you enjoyed this recipe, consider rating it and sharing it on social media. Happy cooking!
A quick and delicious weeknight idea for creamy pesto chicken pasta.
Ingredients
Scale
8 ounces of pasta (penne or fettuccine)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Salt and pepper to taste
3/4 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup basil pesto
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, lower the heat and add the heavy cream. Stir in the basil pesto and cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until melted and smooth.
Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet with the creamy pesto sauce. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired sauce consistency. Stir in the cherry tomatoes.
Serve the creamy pesto chicken pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
Adjust the amount of pasta water for desired sauce thickness.
