Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe 🍝 🥬 🍗

 


This Chicken Pesto Pasta is a deliciously creamy, garlicky, and basil-packed dish that comes together quickly, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner. Juicy, tender chicken combines with a rich pesto sauce and al dente pasta for a mouthwatering meal.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter

For the Pasta & Sauce:

  • 12 ounces pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • ½ cup cherry tomatoes (halved, optional)
  • 1 cup fresh spinach (optional)
  • ¼ cup toasted pine nuts (for garnish)
  • Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
  3. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining. Set pasta aside.

2. Prepare the Chicken:

  1. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
  2. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
  3. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked.
  4. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

3. Make the Pesto Sauce:

  1. In the same skillet, add olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer.
  3. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, basil pesto, and red pepper flakes.
  4. Let the sauce thicken slightly (about 2-3 minutes). If too thick, add some reserved pasta water to adjust consistency.

4. Combine Everything:

  1. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing well to coat.
  2. Stir in the cooked chicken, cherry tomatoes, and spinach (if using). Cook for another 1-2 minutes until everything is heated through.
  3. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

5. Serve & Garnish:

  1. Transfer to serving bowls.
  2. Garnish with toasted pine nuts, fresh basil, and extra Parmesan cheese.
  3. Enjoy warm!

Tips & Variations:

  • Lighter Version: Use half-and-half or Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream.
  • Extra Protein: Add crispy bacon or grilled shrimp.
  • Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and add mushrooms or roasted red peppers.
  • Homemade Pesto: Blend 2 cups fresh basil, ½ cup Parmesan, ⅓ cup pine nuts, 2 garlic cloves, and ½ cup olive oil for fresh, homemade pesto.

This Chicken Pesto Pasta is a flavor-packed dish that is creamy, herby, and satisfying—perfect for any occasion! 🍝✨


YT Channel: Infinite Curiosity


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