Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta

Why Make This Recipe

Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta is a wonderful dish that combines tender chicken, pasta, and a rich, creamy sauce. It’s quick to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight meal for families or anyone short on time. The addition of pesto brings a burst of fresh flavor, and the creamy texture makes it comforting and satisfying. Plus, you can easily customize this recipe to include more veggies or adjust the seasonings to your liking.

How to Make Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta

Ingredients:

• 10.5 ounces penne or rigatoni pasta
• 2 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced (about 10.5 ounces total)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons heavy cream
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3.5 ounces baby spinach (optional, for extra nutrition)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook pasta for 2 minutes less than package directions, ensuring it is just under al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then sauté until cooked through and lightly golden, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat.
4. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream and whole milk, then bring to a gentle simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened. Mix in basil pesto and grated Parmesan, stirring until smooth and melted.
5. Return cooked chicken, drained pasta, and spinach (if using) to the sauce. Toss thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly coated.
6. Transfer the coated mixture into the prepared baking dish. Evenly sprinkle shredded mozzarella and extra Parmesan cheese over the top.
7. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
8. Allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

How to Serve Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta

Serve Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta hot right out of the oven. It pairs well with a simple green salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. For an even fresher touch, you can sprinkle some chopped parsley or extra basil on top before serving.

How to Store Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta

To store leftover Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta, allow it to cool completely. Then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the pasta in a microwave-safe dish and heat it in the microwave until warm, stirring occasionally.

Tips to Make Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta

• To make the pasta even creamier, you can add more heavy cream or a bit of cream cheese.
• Consider adding vegetables like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrition and color.
• If you prefer a little heat, try adding red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Variation

You can easily make this dish vegetarian by replacing the chicken with grilled vegetables or mushrooms. You can also use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought pesto?
Yes, store-bought pesto works great for this recipe, but you can also make your own if you have the time.

2. What if I don’t have heavy cream?
If you don’t have heavy cream, you can substitute it with half-and-half or a combination of milk and sour cream.

3. Can I freeze Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta?
Yes, you can freeze it. Just make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container. It’s best to eat it within 2-3 months for the best flavor and texture.