Introduction to Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta
When the craving for a deliciously satisfying meal hits, look no further than homemade creamy chicken pesto pasta. This dish combines tender chicken, vibrant basil pesto, and a rich, creamy sauce to create a comforting bowl of Italian goodness. But why reach for takeout when you can whip this up in just 20 minutes?
Why Homemade Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta?
Making your own creamy chicken pesto pasta allows you full control over the ingredients, meaning you can customize it to suit your taste. Did you know that using fresh, quality ingredients enhances not only the flavor but also the nutritional value of your meals? In fact, homemade sauces can pack much less sodium compared to store-bought options, making your pasta dish healthier and delicious.
Additionally, whipping up this dish is an excellent opportunity to impress your friends or family during a casual get-together or a cozy date night. The creamy texture and aromatic basil will deliver a delightful experience without breaking the bank.
With just a few key ingredients like chicken, pesto, and pasta, you’re on your way to creating a simple yet gourmet meal. Are you ready to bring restaurant-style cuisine to your home? Let’s get cooking! Check out this homemade basil pesto recipe to get started!
Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta
Creating a creamy chicken pesto pasta that tantalizes your taste buds is all about the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful dish:
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts: Cut into 1-inch pieces for quick and even cooking.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Delivers a touch of herby goodness.
- Kosher salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning both the chicken and the pasta.
- 8 ounces penne pasta: This pasta shape holds the creamy sauce beautifully; opt for ridged penne if you can.
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: Adds richness and depth to the dish.
- ½ cup heavy cream: To achieve that luscious, creamy texture.
- ¼ cup parmesan cheese: Plus more for serving—because who doesn’t love extra cheese?
- ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes: They bring a sweet, tangy flavor that complements the pesto perfectly.
- ½ cup basil pesto: Homemade or from a quality source will create bright flavors.
- ½ to 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes: For a hint of heat; adjust according to your taste.
- Handful of torn basil leaves: For garnish and freshness.
With these ingredients, you're all set for a quick and delicious meal that will impress. Why not gather everything and get cooking?
Preparing Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta
When you're in the mood for something comforting yet impressive, creamy chicken pesto pasta is a fantastic option. It’s rich, flavorful, and easy to whip up within 20 minutes, making it perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into the steps to create this delightful dish!
Season the chicken
Start by preparing your chicken. Cut 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces. In a bowl, add the chicken along with 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, a generous pinch of kosher salt, and some black pepper. Toss everything together until the chicken is evenly coated. This step is crucial as it adds depth of flavor right from the start. Don’t skip on the seasoning!
Cook the penne pasta
While the chicken sits, turn your attention to the pasta. Bring a medium pot of water to a rolling boil and add about 1 tablespoon of salt—this will enhance the flavor of the pasta itself. Drop in 8 ounces of penne pasta (preferably with ridges to hold onto that delicious sauce) and cook according to package instructions. Generally, this will take around 8 to 9 minutes for al dente perfection. Remember to reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water before draining!
Brown the chicken
As your pasta cooks, head back to the chicken. Heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add your seasoned chicken pieces. Cook them, tossing occasionally, until they are golden brown and cooked through—this should take about 7 to 8 minutes. The browning process adds a lovely texture and flavor to the dish.
Combine pasta and sauce
With the chicken ready, it’s time to bring the components of your creamy chicken pesto pasta together. Reduce the heat under the skillet to low and stir in the drained pasta, ½ cup of heavy cream, ¼ cup of parmesan cheese, and ¼ cup of sun-dried tomatoes (drained if packed in oil). Stir everything until well-combined, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if it seems too dry. You want a glossy finish, where the pasta is luxuriously coated in sauce.
Add pesto and finish
Finally, turn off the heat and stir in ½ cup of basil pesto. This is where that vibrant flavor really shines! For an extra touch, you can add a sprinkle of grated parmesan, a pinch of red pepper flakes to kick up the heat, and some torn basil leaves for freshness. Serve the creamy chicken pesto pasta hot, and savor every bite of this easy yet elegant dish.
Now that you know how to master this recipe, it can easily become a go-to in your weeknight dinner rotation. Enjoy cooking, and don’t forget to share your experience—what did you love most about it?
Variations on Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta
Vegetarian Alternative with Mushrooms
Craving a vegetarian twist? Swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms, which add a rich, umami flavor to your creamy chicken pesto pasta. Use a mix of varieties like cremini and shiitake for depth. Just season and cook them until golden brown, then follow the recipe as usual, merging the mushrooms with the creamy sauce and pasta. You'll be amazed at how satisfying this version is!
Gluten-Free Option with Zucchini Noodles
For a lighter, gluten-free alternative, consider using zucchini noodles, or "zoodles," instead of traditional pasta. Spiralize fresh zucchini and sauté briefly just until tender. You can toss the creamy chicken pesto pasta sauce with your zoodles for a refreshing, healthy meal that’s equally vibrant and full of flavor. This swap not only makes the dish gluten-free but also lowers the carb count, making it perfect for those mindful of their intake!
Cooking Tips for Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta
Creating a delicious creamy chicken pesto pasta is all about balance and technique. Here are some essential tips to ensure your dish turns out beautifully every time:
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Season Generously: Don’t be afraid to add salt and pepper, as these enhance the chicken and pasta flavors. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add delightful warmth.
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Cook Pasta Perfectly: Aim for al dente pasta to keep it from becoming mushy in the creamy sauce. Remember to reserve some of that pasta cooking water; it’s a lifesaver for achieving the desired sauce consistency.
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Combine Intelligently: When mixing the pasta with the creamy sauce, give it a good stir! This releases starches that help thicken the sauce for that velvety texture.
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Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh basil pesto and good-quality parmesan to elevate your flavors. If you have time, make your own pesto for that homemade touch!
With these tips, your creamy chicken pesto pasta will impress everyone at the dinner table!
Serving Suggestions for Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta
When you whip up this delicious creamy chicken pesto pasta, pairing it with the right sides can elevate your meal to new heights! Here are some delightful serving suggestions:
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Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta beautifully.
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Garlic Bread: Who can resist the allure of warm, buttery garlic bread? It’s perfect for dipping into that creamy sauce!
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Roasted Vegetables: Consider roasting seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus. They add color and a healthful touch to your plate.
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Candied Nuts: For a crunchy twist, sprinkle some candied pecans or walnuts over your salad. The sweetness balances the savory flavors.
Serve this dish with a refreshing sparkling water or iced tea for the complete Italian dining experience. Enjoy!
Time Breakdown for Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta
Preparation Time
Gather your ingredients and season your chicken in just 10 minutes. This includes chopping the chicken, measuring out your pesto, and getting your pasta ready for cooking.
Cooking Time
With the water boiling and skillet sizzling, cooking the pasta and chicken will take about 10 minutes. It’s quick and efficient, making dinner a breeze!
Total Time
In just 20 minutes, you can whip up a delightful bowl of creamy chicken pesto pasta. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy date night at home!
Feel free to explore more about the versatility of pesto recipes or learn tips on how to perfect your pasta cooking skills!
Nutritional Facts for Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta
Calories
A serving of this creamy chicken pesto pasta contains approximately 444 calories. This makes it a flavorful yet satisfying meal option that won’t break the calorie bank for a cozy night in.
Protein
With about 24.7 grams of protein, this dish offers a hearty dose of nourishment, thanks to the chicken and parmesan cheese. It's a perfect choice for those looking to fuel up after a long day.
Carbohydrates
Each serving has around 33.4 grams of carbohydrates, primarily from the penne pasta. This provides a great energy boost and complements the creamy texture and rich flavors of the dish, making every bite delightful!
For more details on maintaining a balanced diet, check out the USDA MyPlate guidelines.
FAQs about Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta
Can I use homemade pesto?
Absolutely! Using homemade pesto in your creamy chicken pesto pasta can elevate the dish with fresh flavors. Just whip up your own using fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil, and you’ll taste the difference. Homemade pesto can be more vibrant and tailored to your liking, making it a fantastic option!
How can I make it lighter?
If you want a lighter version of creamy chicken pesto pasta, consider substituting heavy cream with a combination of Greek yogurt and a splash of chicken broth. You can also use whole wheat pasta or zucchini noodles to cut down on carbs while adding more nutrients. And don’t forget to load up on veggies!
Can I store leftovers?
Definitely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to bring back the creamy texture. For more tips on storing and reheating pasta dishes, check out this guideline.
Conclusion on Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta
In just 20 minutes, this creamy chicken pesto pasta turns dinner into a flavorful celebration. Ideal for a cozy night in or impressing guests, it’s brimming with rich flavors and satisfying textures. Keep it simple yet elegant, and feel free to adjust ingredients to match your taste! Enjoy the comfort.
Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta
Equipment
- medium pot
- large non-stick skillet
- mixing bowl
Ingredients
Chicken and Pasta
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Kosher salt
- Black pepper
- 8 ounces penne pasta, preferably with ridges
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup parmesan cheese plus more for serving if you like
- ¼ cup sun dried tomatoes, drained if packed in oil
- ½ to 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Handful torn basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Season the chicken. Add the chicken to a bowl and season with the Italian seasoning and a big pinch each of kosher salt and black pepper. Toss to coat.
- Cook the pasta. Bring a medium pot of water to a boil and salt it well with about 1 tablespoon of salt. Drop the pasta in the boiling water and cook until al dente according to package instructions (about 8 to 9 minutes).
- Cook the chicken. While the pasta is cooking, add the olive oil to a large non-stick skillet and heat over medium-high. Add the chicken and cook, tossing occasionally, until golden brown on the outside and cooked through, about 7 to 8 minutes.
- Drain the pasta. When the pasta is ready, reserve about 1 cup of the cooking water and drain.
- Combine. To the pan with the chicken, lower the heat and stir in the cooked pasta, heavy cream, parmesan, and sundried tomatoes. Stir until everything is well combined. If it looks a bit dry, add a splash of the pasta cooking water (a couple tablespoons at a time) until the pasta is glossy and coated in the creamy sauce.
- Add the pesto. Turn off the heat and take the pan off the burner. Stir in the basil pesto and finish with a sprinkle of grated parmesan, red pepper flakes, and basil leaves. Serve.
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