The creamy chicken pesto pasta is a dish that never fails to bring comfort and satisfaction. As the creamy sauce envelops each piece of tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta, every bite feels like a warm hug. The rich, nutty flavors of the pesto blend so beautifully with the creamy base, creating a harmonious balance that’s both indulgent and fresh. What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can easily add a few extra ingredients to give it your personal twist – some roasted cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweetness or a sprinkle of parmesan on top for that extra layer of flavor. Each time I make it, I find myself savoring the way the herbs and garlic meld together, filling the kitchen with an irresistible aroma. It’s the kind of dish you’ll want to make over and over again, whether for a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends.
Key Ingredients in Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta
Each ingredient in this dish plays a special role in bringing the flavors together. Let’s take a look at the key components that make this creamy chicken pesto pasta so delicious.
– Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Tender and juicy, the chicken breasts provide a lean protein base that absorbs the flavors of the pesto and creamy sauce, making each bite a savory delight.
– Olive oil
Used to sear the chicken, olive oil adds a subtle richness to the dish while keeping everything nice and moist during cooking.
– Garlic powder
This simple ingredient brings a warm, aromatic depth to the dish, perfectly complementing the fresh flavors of the pesto sauce.
– Onion powder
The onion powder adds a mild sweetness and umami, balancing out the richness of the cream and enhancing the overall flavor profile.
– Heavy cream
The heavy cream is the heart of the sauce, turning it luxuriously creamy and smooth, with a slight sweetness that harmonizes with the sharpness of the pesto.
– Grated Parmesan cheese
Parmesan brings a salty, nutty flavor to the dish, enriching the creamy sauce and adding a touch of umami that pairs perfectly with the chicken.
– Pesto sauce
Pesto is the star ingredient, providing a burst of fresh, herby goodness. The garlic, basil, and pine nuts in the pesto bring an earthy, vibrant note that lifts the whole dish.
– Fettuccine pasta
Fettuccine is the perfect pasta for this recipe because its wide, flat shape holds onto the creamy sauce, ensuring every bite is full of flavor.
– Butter
A small amount of butter is used to sauté the chicken and to add an extra layer of richness to the sauce, making it even more velvety and satisfying.
– Salt to taste
A pinch of salt brings out all the natural flavors in the dish, tying everything together and enhancing the savory notes.
– Black pepper to taste
Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle heat and complexity, balancing the creaminess and brightness of the pesto.
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Fresh basil leaves give a pop of color and a fragrant, herbaceous finish to the dish, making it as beautiful as it is flavorful.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta
1. Heat a large pot of salted water over high heat to bring it to a boil. This will be for cooking the pasta.
2. Once the water is boiling, add the fettuccine pasta and cook according to the package instructions, typically 8 to 10 minutes, until al dente (firm to the bite).
3. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
4. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This will give the chicken a flavorful base.
5. Place the seasoned chicken breasts into the hot skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is golden brown.
6. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the chicken juicy.
7. In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of butter and let it melt over medium heat, using the remaining oil and flavors in the pan for added richness.
8. Once the butter is melted, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking.
9. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and pesto sauce, mixing until the sauce is smooth and the cheese has fully melted into the cream. This will create a creamy, flavorful base for the pasta.
10. Let the sauce simmer for about 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. This ensures the sauce is rich and velvety.
11. While the sauce is simmering, slice the cooked chicken breasts into thin strips. This will make it easier to mix the chicken evenly into the pasta.
12. When the pasta is done, drain it, reserving a small cup of pasta water. The starchy water can help adjust the sauce consistency later.
13. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy pesto sauce and toss to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce. This allows the pasta to absorb all the delicious flavors.
14. If the sauce is too thick, add a small amount of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. The pasta water will help the sauce cling to the pasta.
15. Once the pasta is coated in the sauce, add the sliced chicken on top and gently toss to combine. This ensures the chicken is evenly distributed.
16. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper, if needed. This is the perfect time to balance the flavors to your liking.
17. Serve the creamy chicken pesto pasta on plates, garnishing with fresh basil leaves. This adds a pop of color and a fragrant finish to the dish.
Serving Suggestions for Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta
– *Pair it with a fresh, crisp salad*
A simple arugula salad with a light lemon vinaigrette is the perfect complement to the rich and creamy pasta. The peppery arugula adds a delightful contrast to the indulgent dish, while the citrusy vinaigrette brightens up the flavors.
– *Serve with warm, crusty bread*
Nothing beats freshly baked bread for dipping into that creamy pesto sauce. A warm ciabatta or baguette with a touch of olive oil is an irresistible pairing that makes every bite feel like a cozy, comforting experience.
– *Top with extra Parmesan and pine nuts*
For an added burst of flavor and texture, sprinkle a little more grated Parmesan on top of the pasta just before serving. Toss in a handful of toasted pine nuts for a nutty crunch that takes this dish to the next level of deliciousness.
How to Store Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta
Storing your leftover creamy chicken pesto pasta properly can help maintain its freshness and flavor for the next meal. Here are a few easy tips to keep your dish tasting as delicious as the first time:
– In the fridge
Store the pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The creamy sauce will thicken a bit when chilled, but you can always add a splash of milk or pasta water when reheating to bring it back to its creamy texture.
– Freezing for later
If you have leftovers that you want to keep for a longer period, you can freeze the pasta. Place the cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag and store it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove, adding a little cream or water to bring back its silky consistency.
– Separate storage for sauce and chicken
For the best results, store the creamy pesto sauce and the chicken separately. This helps to maintain the texture of the chicken while keeping the sauce from becoming too oily. Store both in airtight containers in the fridge and combine them when reheating.
Conclusion
And there you have it – a creamy, dreamy chicken pesto pasta that’s sure to steal the spotlight at any dinner table. From the savory chicken to the rich, velvety pesto sauce, this dish brings together comfort, flavor, and a little touch of elegance. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight treat or a special gathering with friends, it’s the kind of meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
I hope you found this recipe as enjoyable to make as it is to eat! I’d love to hear your thoughts. Did you add any special twists of your own, or do you have any questions about the steps? Feel free to drop a comment or share your feedback – I’m always excited to hear how it turns out in your kitchen!
Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta
Description
Tender chicken nestled in a rich, velvety pesto sauce, tossed with al dente pasta. The creamy texture balances the vibrant, herb-infused pesto, creating a mouthwatering harmony of fresh basil, garlic, and Parmesan in every bite. Simply irresistible!
Ingredients
Instructions
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Heat a large pot of salted water over high heat to bring it to a boil.
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Once the water is boiling, add the fettuccine pasta and cook according to the package instructions, typically 8 to 10 minutes, until al dente.
-
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
-
Season both sides of the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
-
Place the seasoned chicken breasts into the hot skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is golden brown.
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Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest for a few minutes.
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In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of butter and let it melt over medium heat.
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Once the butter is melted, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer.
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Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and pesto sauce, mixing until the sauce is smooth and the cheese has fully melted.
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Let the sauce simmer for about 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
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While the sauce is simmering, slice the cooked chicken breasts into thin strips.
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When the pasta is done, drain it, reserving a small cup of pasta water.
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Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy pesto sauce and toss to coat the pasta in the sauce.
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If the sauce is too thick, add a small amount of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
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Once the pasta is coated in the sauce, add the sliced chicken on top and gently toss to combine.
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Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper, if needed.
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Serve the creamy chicken pesto pasta on plates, garnishing with fresh basil leaves.
Note
- Be sure to cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it's fully cooked and safe to eat.
- For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk.
- If you prefer a stronger pesto flavor, add more pesto sauce to taste.
- You can use any type of pasta you like, but fettuccine works well to hold the creamy sauce.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice to the sauce before serving.
