Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Easy Weeknight Meal

Looking for a quick, delicious meal? Try my Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta! This easy weeknight dish is packed with flavor and takes just 30 minutes to make. With tender chicken, creamy sauce, and fresh pesto, it’s comfort food you can whip up any day. Gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into this tasty recipe that the whole family will love! Your dinner plans just got a whole lot easier!

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

To make creamy pesto chicken pasta, gather these ingredients:

- 8 oz (225g) fettuccine or penne pasta

- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips

- 2 tablespoons olive oil

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 1 cup heavy cream

- ½ cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)

- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

- Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Recommended Tools and Utensils

For this recipe, you will need:

- A large pot for boiling pasta

- A large skillet for cooking chicken and sauce

- A slotted spoon or tongs

- A measuring cup for cream and pesto

- A cheese grater for Parmesan

- A knife and cutting board

Nutritional Information

This creamy pesto chicken pasta serves four and provides:

- Calories: Approximately 600 per serving

- Protein: 30g

- Carbohydrates: 50g

- Fat: 30g

- Fiber: 2g

- Sugars: 2g

This dish is a great balance of protein and carbs. It offers a satisfying meal that can fit into many diets.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Pasta

Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add a good amount of salt to the water. Once it boils, add 8 ounces of fettuccine or penne pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions until it is al dente. This usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. After cooking, drain the pasta. Save about half a cup of the water. Set the pasta aside for later.

Sautéing the Chicken

Next, grab a large skillet and heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. While the oil heats, slice 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts into strips. Season them with salt and pepper. Add the chicken strips to the skillet. Cook them for about 5 to 7 minutes, until they turn golden brown and are fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Preparing the Creamy Pesto Sauce

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir in ½ cup of basil pesto, either store-bought or homemade. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 2 to 3 minutes. This makes the sauce creamy and flavorful.

Combining All Ingredients

Now, it's time to bring everything together. Add the cooked pasta, sautéed chicken, and 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes into the skillet with the creamy pesto sauce. Toss everything well. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water. This helps to get the right sauce consistency.

Finishing Touches

To finish, sprinkle in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Stir it well until the cheese melts into the sauce. This adds a rich flavor. Serve the creamy pesto chicken pasta in bowls. Top with fresh basil leaves for a nice touch. Enjoy your meal!

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Sauce Consistency

To get the sauce just right, start with heavy cream. It adds a rich feel. Stir in the basil pesto slowly. This mix gives the sauce depth. If it seems too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water. This will help thin it out. Adjust until you get a smooth, creamy texture.

Cooking Chicken to Perfection

When cooking the chicken, slice it into strips. This helps it cook evenly. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet. Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Cook until it's golden brown and fully done. This should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove the chicken to keep it juicy.

Time-Saving Tips

For a quicker meal, use store-bought pesto. It saves time and still tastes great. Cook the pasta while you sauté the chicken. This saves about 10 minutes. Also, chop the cherry tomatoes while the chicken cooks. This keeps your prep fast and fun.

Variations

Vegetarian Option

You can easily make this dish vegetarian. Skip the chicken and add protein-rich ingredients like chickpeas or tofu. You can also try using a meat substitute for a similar taste. This keeps the meal hearty and satisfying. Use the same creamy pesto sauce for flavor.

Adding Extra Vegetables

Boost nutrition by adding more vegetables. Try spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini. You can sauté them with the chicken or mix them in with the pasta. Cherry tomatoes are already in the recipe, and they add a fresh burst. This makes your dish colorful and full of flavor.

Alternative Protein Choices

If you prefer not to use chicken, consider shrimp or salmon. Both cook quickly and pair well with pesto. Cook shrimp for about 3-4 minutes until they turn pink. For salmon, sear until cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side. These options keep the dish exciting and delicious.

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

To keep your creamy pesto chicken pasta fresh, place it in an airtight container. Make sure to let it cool first. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. This keeps the flavors intact and the pasta tasty.

Reheating Instructions

When you are ready to enjoy leftovers, heat them gently. Use a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or cream to help loosen the sauce. Stir often until it’s warm throughout. You can also use the microwave. Cover the bowl with a lid or microwave-safe wrap. Heat in short intervals, stirring in between.

Freezing Recommendations

If you want to freeze the dish, use a freezer-safe container. It can last up to three months in the freezer. To thaw, move it to the fridge a day before you want to eat it. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave as mentioned. However, note that the texture of the pasta may change slightly after freezing.

FAQs

Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Cook the pasta and chicken, then store them separately. Mix them with the sauce just before serving. This keeps the pasta from getting soggy.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

If you want a lighter option, use half-and-half or whole milk. You can also blend silken tofu for a creamy texture. Coconut milk adds a unique flavor, too.

How to make homemade basil pesto?

To make basil pesto, blend fresh basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese. Slowly add olive oil until smooth. This adds a fresh touch to your dish. You can store pesto in the fridge for up to a week.

Can I use different pasta types?

Yes! You can use any pasta you like. Fettuccine and penne work well, but spaghetti, rotini, or even gluten-free pasta can be great choices. Just adjust the cooking time based on the pasta type.

What are good side dishes to serve with this?

Pair this dish with a simple salad or garlic bread. Roasted vegetables or steamed green beans also complement the creamy flavors. A light, crisp white wine can enhance your meal.

You now have a clear guide to making a delicious pasta dish. We covered the essential ingredients, tools, and nutrition. I shared step-by-step instructions for cooking. Tips help you make the best sauce and chicken. You also learned about variations to fit your taste and how to store leftovers.

Remember, cooking is fun, and experimenting can lead to great meals. Enjoy creating and sharing your delicious dish!