This creamy chicken pesto pasta is a wonderful dish that mixes tender chicken with tasty pesto and pasta. It’s quick to make and oh-so-comforting!
I love how simple it is—just cook everything in one pot! Plus, who can resist that blend of creamy goodness and fresh flavors? Dinner is always a hit with this one! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: This is my go-to choice for this dish due to its hollow shape, which holds the sauce well. If you’re out of penne, try fusilli or rotini which work just as nicely!
Chicken Breasts: Boneless breasts are easy to cook and make the dish lean. You could substitute with cooked rotisserie chicken or even tofu for a vegetarian twist!
Basil Pesto: Using store-bought pesto saves time. If you want to make your own, just blend fresh basil with garlic, nuts, Parmesan, and olive oil! Nut allergies? Swap nuts with sunflower seeds.
Heavy Cream: This adds creaminess, but if you prefer a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Just be mindful of the taste change!
Spinach: Fresh spinach wilts beautifully in the sauce! If you have frozen spinach, that’s fine too—just thaw and squeeze out excess water first.
How Do You Achieve a Thick and Creamy Sauce?
Getting that perfect creamy sauce is key for this recipe. Here’s how to make it happen:
- After sautéing the garlic, reducing the heat before adding the cream and pesto is vital. This helps prevent separation.
- Stir the mixture constantly for a few minutes. You want to let it simmer gently to thicken without boiling it.
- The grated Parmesan cheese is a natural thickener. Mix it in slowly right before serving for the best texture.
These tips will help you create a luscious sauce that coats the pasta beautifully, making each bite delightful! Enjoy cooking!
Easy Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Chicken:
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized strips
Cooking Essentials:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
- 3/4 cup prepared basil pesto
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
Fresh Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 8-10 cherry tomatoes, halved
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes in total, with around 10-15 minutes for preparation and cooking combined. Quick and delicious, perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside. It will soak up all that delicious flavor later!
2. Prepare the Chicken:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Season the chicken strips with salt and pepper before adding them to the skillet. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, or until the chicken is no longer pink and lightly browned. After cooking, remove the chicken from the skillet and keep it on a plate.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until it’s fragrant. Lower the heat to medium and pour in the heavy cream and pesto. Stir well and let it cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
4. Combine It All:
Now, add the cooked penne pasta, the chicken, fresh spinach, and halved cherry tomatoes into the skillet. Toss everything together to combine well, cooking just until the spinach wilts and everything is heated through.
5. Finish with Cheese:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, keeping a little bit aside for garnishing. Make sure it’s well mixed and melty!
6. Serve It Up:
Remove the skillet from heat and serve your creamy chicken pesto pasta hot. Top with any remaining Parmesan cheese and a dash of freshly cracked black pepper if you like. Enjoy every creamy, flavorful bite!
Happy cooking! Your family or friends will love this dish! 😊
FAQ for Easy Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is a great choice, you can substitute it with any pasta shape like fusilli, rotini, or even spaghetti. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type you choose!
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
For a dairy-free version, you can use a dairy-free cream alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream. Additionally, opt for a dairy-free Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor without the dairy!
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Yes! Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Just sauté them along with the chicken or add them during the sauce-making step to ensure they’re cooked through.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove or in the microwave, stirring well to redistribute the creamy sauce. You may want to add a splash of water or extra cream to loosen it up if it thickens too much in the fridge.
