This chicken pesto pasta recipe is incredibly simple, requiring only 5 ingredients! The chicken turns out tender and juicy, while the creamy pesto sauce is silky and absolutely irresistible.
Chicken Pesto Pasta
Chicken Pesto Pasta
For a meal that combines the vibrant flavors of basil pesto with tender grilled chicken and pasta, Chicken Pesto Pasta is an excellent choice. This dish features penne pasta coated in a rich green pesto sauce, topped with slices of grilled chicken, and garnished with fresh basil leaves and grated cheese.
A Symphony of Flavors
The pesto sauce is the star of this dish, providing a fresh and aromatic base that pairs perfectly with the tender grilled chicken and al dente penne pasta. The fresh basil leaves add a burst of color and a hint of earthiness, while the grated cheese adds a touch of creaminess and depth.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or looking for a dish to impress guests, Chicken Pesto Pasta is a versatile choice. It’s elegant enough for a dinner party yet simple enough for a casual meal. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a dish that everyone will love.
A Crowd-Pleaser
This dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Its vibrant presentation and delicious taste make it a standout meal. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce new flavors to your dinner table, combining the familiar comfort of pasta with the fresh, aromatic notes of basil pesto.
Ingredients:
- Pasta (penne works well)
- Olive oil (for pan frying)
- Chicken breasts (cut into strips)
- Pesto (choose a basil pesto you love, like DeLallo or homemade)
- Heavy cream (for a luxurious sauce)
Substitutions and variations:
Swap chicken for shrimp.
Use any pasta you have, such as rigatoni or rotini.
Add fresh spinach near the end for a burst of freshness.
What to serve with chicken pesto pasta:
- Extra Cheesy Garlic Bread is a top choice.
- Dinner rolls, breadsticks, or fresh crusty bread also balance the richness.
- For a salad, try it with my homemade Olive Garden Salad Dressing.
Leftovers and storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for around 3-4 days.
- Reheat slowly over low heat in a saucepan.
- Avoid freezing, as the sauce’s texture might change, and the chicken could dry out.
Love chickens? Be sure to check out these other great chicken recipes!
Chicken Pesto Pasta
Ingredients
- 8 ounces of uncooked pasta I used penne
- 1/2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 chicken breasts cut into bite-size strips
- 1 cup pesto with your favorite store-bought
- 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese to taste tablespoon
Instructions
- Boil a large pot of salted water for the pasta and cook it al dente according to the package instructions.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a skillet, and add the chicken, stirring until coated. Sauté over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes, ensuring it's no longer pink on the outside but not fully cooked inside. It's okay if it doesn't brown.
- Add the pesto and cream to the skillet, give it a good stir, and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
- Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the skillet, tossing it with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper as needed. If you like, top it with Parmesan.
- Enjoy your delicious and quick pesto chicken pasta!
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Chicken Pesto Pasta