Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe
Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe
This Chicken Pesto Pasta is a simple, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, creamy pesto, and perfectly cooked pasta for a satisfying meal. It's quick to make and perfect for weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients (Serves 4):
- 300g (10 oz) pasta (penne, spaghetti, or your favorite)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 chicken breasts, diced or sliced thinly
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or milk (optional, for a creamier sauce)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
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Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
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Cook the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
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Sauté Garlic:
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
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Make the Sauce:
- Lower the heat to medium-low. Stir in the pesto and heavy cream (if using) until combined. Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet.
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Combine with Pasta:
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
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Finish with Parmesan:
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
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Serve:
- Divide the pasta among plates or bowls, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and sprinkle extra Parmesan on top if desired.
Tips:
- Add veggies: Toss in some cherry tomatoes, spinach, or roasted bell peppers for extra flavor and color.
- Use different proteins: Swap chicken for shrimp, turkey, or tofu for a variation.
- Make it lighter: Use zoodles (zucchini noodles) or whole-grain pasta for a healthier twist.
This Chicken Pesto Pasta is a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Enjoy! 🍝🌿
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