Description
Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the vibrant flavors of fresh basil with tender chicken and creamy sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. In just under 30 minutes, you can create a comforting meal that your entire family will love. The rich, aromatic pesto sauce coats the pasta beautifully, making every bite a burst of flavor. Whether served on its own or alongside a fresh salad, this creamy pasta dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 boneless chicken breasts
- 8 oz penne or fettuccine pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup basil pesto
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and cook chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and let rest before slicing.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat and stir in heavy cream followed by basil pesto. Mix in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Toss the drained pasta into the skillet with the sauce, adjusting consistency with reserved pasta water if necessary.
- Serve sliced chicken over pasta, garnishing with fresh basil leaves and additional Parmesan if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (around 300g)
- Calories: 640
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 53g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 135mg