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Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta

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A creamy and comforting pasta dish that combines tender chicken, basil pesto, and rich cream for a delightfully flavorful experience.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 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)
  • 3.5 ounces baby spinach (optional, for extra nutrition)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your penne or rigatoni and cook it according to package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes).
  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the diced chicken with salt and pepper, then add it to the skillet. Sauté until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes.
  3. Add Garlic and Butter: Toss in minced garlic and unsalted butter, sautéing for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Create the Creamy Sauce: Pour in heavy cream and whole milk, stirring gently to combine, then bring to a gentle simmer.
  5. Mix in the Pesto: Stir in basil pesto, transforming the sauce into a delightful green hue.
  6. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Drain pasta and add it to the skillet with the sauce, tossing gently. If too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
  7. Cheese It Up: Fold in mozzarella cheese until it melts, then stir in baby spinach until wilted.
  8. Final Touches: Sprinkle in Parmesan cheese and taste; adjust seasoning as needed.
  9. Plate it Up: Serve generously on plates or bowls, with a drizzle of olive oil or extra basil if desired.

Notes

For a lighter version, consider using half and half instead of heavy cream.

Nutrition

Keywords: Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta, easy pasta recipe, flavorful chicken pasta, weeknight dinner, comfort food

Find it online: https://basilboard.com/creamy-pesto-chicken-pasta/