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Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

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A rich and comforting creamy chicken pesto pasta made with tender chicken, fragrant pesto, and a smooth Parmesan cream sauce. This quick and flavorful dish is perfect for an easy yet satisfying meal.

Ingredients

  • 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
  • 1 lb chicken breast, cut into pieces
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup pesto sauce
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • Cherry tomatoes (optional)
  • Spinach (optional)
  • Mushrooms (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
  3. Add chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
  4. In the same pan, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant.
  5. Pour in heavy cream and let it simmer gently.
  6. Stir in pesto sauce and Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.
  7. Return the cooked chicken to the pan.
  8. Add cooked pasta and toss everything together.
  9. Add reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
  10. Serve warm, optionally topped with extra Parmesan.

Notes

  • Store-bought pesto works perfectly for convenience.
  • Penne or fettuccine hold the sauce best, but any pasta can be used.
  • Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor.
  • Substitute shrimp or keep vegetarian by omitting chicken.
  • Use half-and-half for a lighter version.
  • Add cream cheese for extra richness.
  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.

Nutrition

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