Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe, Craving a quick, flavorful dish that’s sure to delight your taste buds? Look no further than this mouthwatering chicken pesto pasta ! Featuring tender chicken, fresh basil pesto, and al dente pasta, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this is sure to impress.

In this thorough guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to create a delectable chicken pesto pasta that’s bursting with vibrant flavors. From choosing the right ingredients to mastering the cooking techniques, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to your pasta game and wow your guests with this simple yet sophisticated dish.

Ingredients for Chicken Pesto Pasta

To make this delicious chicken pesto pasta, you’ll need the following ingredients:

8 ounces (225g) of penne or fusilli pasta
1 pound (450g) of boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup (240ml) of fresh basil pesto
1 cup (240ml) of heavy cream
1/2 cup (120ml) of grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper to taste

Preparing the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
Add the penne or fusilli pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 10-12 minutes, until al dente.
Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Cooking the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper.
In a large skillet or pan, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken breasts and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they’re cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.

Making the Pesto Sauce

In the same skillet or pan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it starts to simmer.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the basil pesto until it’s well combined.
Gently fold in the cooked pasta and sliced chicken.
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top and season with additional salt and black pepper to taste.

Serving and Storing

Serve the chicken pesto pasta hot, garnished with extra basil leaves or Parmesan cheese if desired.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Conclusion

With its vibrant flavors, tender chicken, and al dente pasta, this chicken pesto pasta dish is sure to become a new family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dish or a sophisticated dinner party dish, this is the perfect solution.

By following these simple steps, you’ll be able to create a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen. Enjoy the delicious combination of basil pesto, creamy sauce, and juicy chicken – it’s a flavor explosion that’s sure to delight your taste buds.

FAQ

What can I substitute for the heavy cream? You can use half-and-half or full-fat milk as a substitute for the heavy cream. The sauce may be slightly thinner, but it will still be delicious.

Can I use a store-bought pesto instead of making my own? Absolutely! If you’re short on time, using a high-quality store-bought pesto is a great option. Just be sure to taste it and adjust the seasoning as needed.

How can I make this dish gluten-free? To make this gluten-free, simply substitute the penne or fusilli pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, you can use any short, tubular pasta, such as rigatoni, farfalle, or even shells. The cooking time may vary slightly, so be sure to check the package instructions.

How can I make this dish more budget-friendly? To save money, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts. They tend to be more affordable and just as delicious. You can also use a store-bought pesto to save time and money.