Description
Homemade creamy chicken pesto pasta brings Italian comfort to your dinner table. Parmesan, fresh basil, and tender chicken create a satisfying meal that delivers rich flavors you will savor in every delicious bite.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne or fettuccine)
- 2 cups (480 ml) cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) prepared pesto
- 1/4 cup (30 g) grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare pasta in a large pot of boiling water according to package directions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain thoroughly and reserve.
- Warm olive oil in a spacious skillet over medium-high heat, approximately 350°F.
- Sauté minced garlic until aromatic and lightly golden, releasing its rich flavor, about 30-45 seconds.
- Introduce pre-cooked chicken pieces into the fragrant garlic-infused pan, gently stirring to distribute heat evenly and warm through completely.
- Pour heavy cream into the skillet, allowing it to simmer and create a luxurious base for the sauce. Stir continuously to prevent scorching.
- Incorporate homemade or store-bought pesto and freshly grated Parmesan cheese, whisking until the mixture transforms into a smooth, velvety consistency.
- Fold the drained pasta into the creamy sauce, ensuring each strand is generously coated with the herb-infused, cheesy mixture.
- Season with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper, adjusting to personal taste preferences.
- Transfer to serving plates immediately while piping hot, garnishing with additional Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- Opt for fresh, homemade pesto to enhance the authentic flavor and richness of the dish.
- Consider using whole wheat pasta for a healthier, fiber-rich alternative that complements the creamy sauce.
- Swap heavy cream with Greek yogurt or coconut milk to create a lighter, lower-calorie version that still maintains a luxurious texture.
- Customize the protein by using grilled shrimp, tofu, or roasted vegetables for a versatile vegetarian or seafood-friendly option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 570 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 380 mg
- Fat: 35 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg